2. Also known as…

3. THE TERM… • The prefix para is Greek meaning “next to another” • This prefix may have been used with the words parallel, paralegal, or even paragraph. • So what about paraprofessional educator, though? • This term is most frequently used in the context of education to describe someone who collaborates closely with a qualified classroom teacher to offer extra support to students.

4. The term… • The phrase “paraprofessional” is used in some educational or other professional environments • They may also be referred to as paraeducators, ed techs, instructional aides, teacher assistants, Educational Assistants…or paras. • Paraprofessionals—whatever you choose to call them—are an essential component of the educational community.

5. Responsibilities of Paraprofessionals: • The primary responsibility is to assist a teacher by helping to manage students with special education needs and the classroom. • They also conduct classroom activities and provide one-on-one guidance. • These “parapros”support students with Learning Disabilities and also students with disabilities related to hyperactivity, autism, behavioural issues, or physical disabilities such as vision impairment, hearing impairment, etc.

6. Aside these duties, paraprofessionals may also perform the following: • Perform clerical duties by assist teachers with paperwork. • Ensure classroom safety standards adhere. • Aid teachers to prepare for lessons by getting instructional materials and equipment ready. • Help teachers keep track of attendance as well as homework, and reports, tasks, assignments • Encourage students to be independent and also communicate with them to improve participation. • Assist teachers to conduct lessons. • Supervise the classroom to minimize noise and distractions. • Head small group discussions or interactions. • Supervise students in and out of class.

7. Also… • A paraprofessional also encourages positive conduct and redirects students when they engage in off-task behaviour. • For example: One of the significant things they do is working with students with physical disabilities assist with the movement for wheelchair-bound students, feeding, and use of the bathroom (toileting, hygiene, etc.)

8. But remember… • Although paraprofessionals are essential parts of a school’s support staff, they are not qualified instructors. • They are qualified educators who work with and are supervised by a certified teacher

9. Paraprofessional are more than just helpers to teachers in class. • Although they might not have the full qualifications, the amazing thing about parapros is they ability to employ strategies that have been recognized to help the students with special education needs to learn better and understand difficult tasks and topics.

10. Part of the school community • To be effective dealing with pupils, paraprofessionals/EAs need to have knowledge and skills. • A paraprofessional needs to know when to stand aside and support a student’s independence, as do other educators, and when to step in and offer assistance. • Many of the practical skills that paraprofessionals/EAs acquire will be while they are on the job. • When they have access to professional development opportunities and continual training, they can be more productive. • In order to keep paraprofessionals informed of all school policies, curriculum, and student needs, schools should whenever possible include them in staff meetings and other events.

11. Some Key conclusions • Students are supported by paraprofessionals/EAs both within and outside of the classroom with regard to instruction, behaviour, and other issues. • While some paraprofessionals serve small groups or entire classrooms, others work one-on-one with students. • Despite not having the same training as teachers, paraprofessionals are still required by law to complete certain requirements.