Paraprofessional

A paraprofessional typically works alongside teachers to support the educational process.
The specific duties of a paraprofessional can vary depending on the grade level, the subject being taught, and the specific needs of the students. However, the general duties and responsibilities often include:

1. Supporting Teachers

• Assisting with Classroom Management: Paraprofessionals help maintain a positive and orderly classroom environment by supporting teachers in managing student behavior and ensuring students stay focused and engaged.

• Preparing Learning Materials: They may help prepare educational materials like worksheets, flashcards, visual aids, and supplies.

• Providing One-on-One or Small Group Instruction: Paraprofessionals may work with individual students or small groups to reinforce lessons or provide additional support for students who need extra help.

2. Assisting with Students Needs

• Special Education Support: For students with disabilities, paraprofessionals assist with implementing Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). This may include providing physical support, behavioral interventions, or working on specific learning goals.

• Emotional and Behavioral Support: Paraprofessionals may help students with emotional regulation and behavior management, working under the guidance of a teacher or counselor.

3. Supervising Students

• Monitoring Students: Paraprofessionals supervise students during non-classroom times, such as during lunch, recess, or transitions between classes, ensuring safety and proper behavior.

• Field Trip Assistance: Paraprofessionals may help chaperone students on field trips, ensuring student safety and providing educational support during the outing.

4. Administrative Tasks

• Record-Keeping: Paraprofessionals may assist with maintaining records, such as student attendance, grades, or progress toward learning goals.

• Grading and Feedback: In some cases, paraprofessionals help with grading assignments or providing feedback to students, though this generally requires oversight from a licensed teacher.

5. Supporting Technology and Tools

• Technology Assistance: Paraprofessionals may help students with technology in the classroom, whether that's assisting with the use of computers, tablets, or specialized software for learning.

• Assistive Technology: For students with special needs, paraprofessionals may assist with the use of assistive technology tools designed to support their learning.

6. Communication and Collaboration

• Liaison Role: Paraprofessionals often act as a bridge between students, teachers, and parents, communicating student progress or concerns to the teacher.

• Collaborating with the Teaching Team: Paraprofessionals regularly meet with teachers to discuss student needs, progress, and strategies to improve learning.

7. Support Student Assessment

• Helping with Assessments: Paraprofessionals may assist teachers in administering assessments and tests, and sometimes help with gathering data on student performance.

Minimum Qualification:

Education Required:

1. Complete at least two years of study at an accredited institution of higher education (equal to 60 semester hours); or

2. Obtain an associate degree (or higher) from an accredited institution; or

3. Meet a rigorous standard of quality and demonstrate, through passage of an approved formal state academic assessment in the following areas:

   • Knowledge of, and the ability to assist in instructing reading, writing, and mathematics; or

   • Knowledge of, and the ability to assist in instructing reading readiness, writing readiness, and mathematics readiness, as appropriate