PARAPATHWAYS EDUCATIONAL TESTING
What is the purpose of the ParaPathways Assessment?
The ParaPathways Assessment measures the reading, writing, and math skills and knowledge of prospective and practicing paraprofessionals.
Beginning August 1, 2024, College of the Ozarks offers multiple options for entrance into the Education Program. 1)Minimum of 18 ACT composite score or SAT equivalent or 2)state passing score on the ETS ParaPathways.
When should I take the test?
The ParaPathways Assessment is computer-delivered continuously throughout the year in test centers throughout the country. Students must apply for admission to the Teacher Education program by the end of their fourth semester. If the student does not meet the minimum ACT composite score of 18, then a passing score is required on the ParaPathways. Therefore, you should not delay taking the assessment. Please consult your advisor to determine when is best for you to take your assessments.
How do I register for the test?
Visit the ETS website at this link: https://praxis.ets.org/test-taker/register-process.html Create an account. Then register. When registering, please be sure to indicate that your scores should be sent to both College of the Ozarks and the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
When and where is it offered?
Visit this link: Find testing centers here.
What is the cost?
ParaPathways testing fees can be found at this link: https://parapro.ets.org/test-centers/test-centers.html
Test centers may charge additional fees. Contact the test center directly for more information about fees and preferred payment methods.
What if I need to reschedule or cancel?
If you wish to change your test date or time, you must do so at least 3 days before your scheduled test date. Please visit this link: https://parapro.ets.org/how-to-register.html and click the "Rescheduling, Cancelling, and Refunds" drop down to learn more.
What is the passing score for the ParaPathways?
The passing score for the ParaPathways exam has been set by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and can be found at this link: https://praxis.ets.org/state-requirements/missouri-tests.html
When will I know the results?
Visit: https://parapro.ets.org/get-scores/get-scores.html
PRAXIS EDUCATIONAL TESTING
Administered by Educational Testing Service (ETS), Praxis exams are designed to assess the pedagogical knowledge and skills that new teachers need to enter the profession. Click here for a comprehensive look at the Praxis.
What is the purpose of the Praxis?
The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) requires the Praxis. College of the Ozarks candidates must pass the appropriate Praxis to student teach and be recommended for certification.
What test should I take?
The correct test by certification area can be found by viewing the list of assessments by program posted on the ETS website. If you are unsure which test to take after reviewing the list, please contact the certification officer at 417-690-2150.
How do I register for the test?
Follow this link to register for the test: How to Register for a Praxis Test (ets.org). If you took the ParaPathways, use the account you created when registering. When registering please indicate that a copy of the report should go to both the College of the Ozarks and the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
You must include your social security number when creating a profile. This is currently listed as optional on the site, but in order for DESE's certification system to connect scores to an individual, they need a SSN tied to them. DESE is working with ETS to change the language on the site to reflect that this is a requirement for Missouri.
What is the cost of the Praxis exam
The cost of the Praxis exam varies by assessment. Current exam costs are available at Missouri Tests Requirements.
Students must pass all of the Praxis Assessment relative to their area(s) of certification prior to student teaching. It may take more than one attempt to pass the Praxis. Therefore, you should not delay taking the assessment. Please consult with your advisor to determine when is best for you to take your assessments.
When and where is it offered?
Register online for Praxis tests at Registration Information using a credit/debit card or PayPal. Use your personal email when registering.
How to prepare
Practice tests and downloadable free test resources are available. These can be accessed by visiting the Praxis Exams for Missouri website, clicking "View test details" on the test you plan to take, scrolling down to the "About The Test" section, and clicking "Download Free Resources."
What is the passing score?
The cut score for ALL Praxis exams has been set by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). Each test has a different qualifying score. Select the test on the Praxis website to see the passing score.
What is the retake policy?
The test may only be retaken at least 28 days after the previous test date.
What do I do after the test?
After the test, the testing company will notify you of your scores. You should save a PDF of your score report. A future school district may request this score report as part of the application process.
How do I add additional certifications through Praxis Assessments?
Once you are certified to teach in any area, you can add certificates by passing the appropriate Praxis in that area. Once you have passed the Praxis Assessment, you will need to apply for that additional certificate through DESE. Even though they will receive your score, they will not act on it unless you apply for the certificate.
If you plan to move to another state to teach and want to transfer all of your added certificates, you should contact that state to see if they accept certification through Praxis before registering for an additional exam.
Are disability accommodations available?
Absolutely! ETS is committed to reasonable and appropriate accommodations for test takers with disability or health-related needs. For more information, click here.