Preparing And Retaining All (PARA) Educators Act

This bill provides federal grants to states to help recruit and retain paraprofessionals - school support staff like teaching assistants - in public elementary, secondary, and preschool programs. States receive funds based on prior Title I funding and distribute them via competitive subgrants to school districts or consortia serving high-need schools (e.g., those with many low-income students or rural locations). Funds can support wage increases, bonuses, mentoring programs, professional development, and credentials like special education or English learner certifications. The bill prioritizes schools serving high-need populations and requires annual reporting on wage baselines and retention outcomes.