Through the Premier Para Partnership (PPP), Bethel collaborates with the Anoka-Hennepin School District to offer opportunities to both M.A. in Special Education and CAPS B.A. in Special Education students for full-time positions as float paras in Anoka-Hennepin schools while they earn their graduate degrees. This means you’ll get hands-on experience and real-world training—plus the benefits of full-time employment—while gaining the classroom knowledge and credentials you need for a successful career. To find information on the Anoka-Hennepin Para Scholarship Program, explore our business partnerships page.

Program Highlights

Full-time employment

Students who are hired by the Anoka-Hennepin School District will get full-time pay and benefits while in this program. This partnership extends Bethel's focus in helping adult students balance work, home, and community commitments so you can manage your time while you work towards your future.

Special Education experience

You'll receive exceptional training and experience with students in a variety of age groups and disability categories. You'll be part of a PPP cohort and mentored by master teachers. This partnership is designed to help you go on to build a successful career and make a difference in the lives of students.

Career preparation

Anoka-Hennepin is the largest school district in Minnesota, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to make connections with people who can hire you after graduation. By working in a large district, you’ll gain diverse experiences that will prepare you for leadership in any setting.

How do I apply?

Step 1 - Tell us why you’re interested

Send a short essay—no more than two paragraphs—to our partnership coordinator, Dana Jensen (dana-jensen@bethel.edu). The essay should tell us why you’re interested in the opportunity and why you believe you’d be a good fit for the position.

Step 2 - Apply and Interview with the Anoka-Hennepin School District

After we receive your essay, we’ll notify the Anoka-Hennepin School District that you’re ready for the next step. If you’re a good fit, you’ll be contacted to apply for a specific position and set up a time for an interview. Interviews and hires will happen at various times throughout the year.

Contact Us

Please let us know if you have any additional questions!

Dana Jensen, CAPS-GS Partnership and Placement Coordinator

dana-jensen@bethel.edu