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 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 maintain 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 teacher 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 appropriat