Employment of teacher assistants is projected to grow 6 percent from 2014 to 2024, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Student enrollment is expected to increase from 2014 to 2024. The increase in the number of students will affect the average classroom size, possibly spurring demand for teacher assistants. In addition, there will be continued demand for special education services and, in turn, demand for teacher assistants who work with these students.

Teacher assistants' positions are more of a supplementary position, as opposed to teachers, who hold a primary position. Therefore, teacher assistants' employment opportunities may be limited because school districts are more likely to eliminate teacher assistant positions rather than teacher positions when there are budget cuts.

Job Prospects

In addition to job openings due to employment growth, numerous openings will arise as assistants leave the occupation and must be replaced. Because of the education requirements and low pay, many workers transfer to other occupations or leave the labor force to take care of family responsibilities, to return to school, or for other reasons.