The KPA (Kentucky Paraeducator Assessment) is a standardized test required for paraeducators — instructional aides and paraprofessionals — working in Kentucky public schools under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). This guide covers what the KPA tests, the exam format, how to register, the passing score required, and the most effective strategies for passing the assessment.
The KPA is a competency assessment used to verify that paraeducators in Kentucky public schools meet the federal ESSA 'highly qualified' standard for instructional aides. Under ESSA, paraeducators who provide instructional support must demonstrate knowledge in three areas: reading/language arts, mathematics, and supporting student learning. The KPA satisfies this requirement for paraeducators who hold a high school diploma or GED but do not hold an associate's or bachelor's degree.
Who administers the KPA? The KPA is administered by the Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) in partnership with a testing vendor. Paraeducators register and test through the official KDE portal.
Why is the KPA required? Federal ESSA requirements mandate that paraeducators providing instructional support in schools receiving Title I funds must demonstrate academic competency. Paraeducators who have completed at least two years of college (48 credit hours) or hold an associate's/bachelor's degree may use their degree in lieu of the KPA. All others must pass the KPA to serve in qualifying instructional roles. Start practicing with our free kpa kentucky paraeducator assessment resources.
The KPA is a computer-based multiple choice assessment covering three content domains required by ESSA for instructional paraeducators:
1. Reading and Language Arts: This section assesses fundamental literacy skills relevant to supporting student learning in reading. Topics include phonics and phonemic awareness fundamentals, reading comprehension strategies, vocabulary development, grammar and sentence structure, and basic writing skills. Paraeducators may be asked to identify effective reading support strategies or interpret instructional scenarios.
2. Mathematics: This section tests basic mathematical competency at the level required to support classroom instruction. Topics include operations with whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and percentages; ratio and proportion; basic algebra; measurement; data interpretation (reading tables, graphs, charts); and math problem-solving at the elementary-to-middle school level.
3. Instructional Support: This section is unique to the paraeducator role — it tests knowledge of how paraeducators effectively support classroom instruction under the direction of a licensed teacher. Topics include understanding the paraeducator's role vs. the teacher's role, supporting students with disabilities, implementing instructional strategies as directed, behavior management support, and confidentiality obligations.
For focused preparation on the KPA, take our kpa test practice questions covering all three content areas.
Kentucky paraeducators have two paths to meeting ESSA requirements:
Path 1 — Pass the KPA: Take and pass the Kentucky Paraeducator Assessment. This is the fastest route for paraeducators who do not have college credit. The KPA directly satisfies the ESSA competency requirement and allows you to immediately continue in instructional support roles.
Path 2 — Earn College Credits: Complete at least 48 college credit hours (two years) at an accredited institution. An associate's degree or higher automatically satisfies ESSA requirements without the KPA. Some paraeducators pursue this path if they plan to eventually become licensed teachers.
For most paraeducators already working in the field, passing the KPA is the most direct and cost-effective option. Prepare with our kpa kentucky paraeducator assessment overview and our kpa test practice questions.