Paraprofessionals offer various forms of assistance that contribute to making classrooms more inclusive.
Paraprofessionals offer various forms of assistance that contribute to making classrooms more inclusive.
How does a paraprofessional differ from a teacher?
A paraprofessional typically has less education and training than a teacher, and their role is to support the teacher and students, rather than lead instruction.
What skills and qualifications are required to be a paraprofessional?
Paraprofessionals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, some education or training in the field, and experience working with children. They should also have strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
What are the benefits of using a paraprofessional in the classroom?
The use of a paraprofessional can provide additional support to students and teachers, allowing the teacher to focus more on instruction, and can help students who need extra support succeed academically and socially.
The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) refers to paraprofessionals, who are also known as ed techs, classroom assistants, instructional aides, teacher assistants, paraeducators, and paras. Regardless of the name, these individuals play a crucial role in the school community. Paraprofessionals, while not certified teachers, are essential support staff members. They are credentialed education professionals who assist and work under the guidance of a certified teacher or school professional.
Paraprofessionals play a vital role in supporting students both inside and outside the classroom. They often work with students who receive special education services or have a 504 plan, providing instructional, behavioral, and other types of assistance. Paraprofessionals may be found in special education classrooms, general education settings, or rotating through various classes to support specific grade levels. Here are four common ways paraprofessionals provide support:
| Type of Support | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Instructional Support | Paraprofessionals reinforce learning by working one-on-one or in small groups with students, providing extra help during or after lessons, and leading small group activities. | A paraprofessional helps a small group of students understand a math concept, allowing the teacher to focus on students ready for the next concept. |
| Language Support | Bilingual paraprofessionals assist English language learners (ELLs) by helping them understand academic content in their home language and creating culturally responsive learning materials. | A bilingual paraprofessional speaks with ELLs in their home language to ensure they grasp the lesson content. |
| Behavioral Support | Paraprofessionals implement behavior intervention plans (BIPs), document behavioral interventions, use strategies to encourage appropriate behavior, and assist in crisis situations. | A paraprofessional documents a student’s behavior throughout the day as part of a BIP and provides specific praise for appropriate behaviors. |
| Physical and Medical Support | Paraprofessionals assist students with physical disabilities in developing adaptive skills and may work with the school nurse to support students with medical needs. | A paraprofessional helps a student with self-care tasks or assists children who are at risk for seizures or have severe allergies. |
