For years, I have believed that paraprofessionals make or break a Special Education program. Life is fantastic when you have a para that is skilled and willing. Life is miserable when a para is unskilled and/or unwilling.
I also firmly believe that we do not spend enough time training these valuable educators. Too many times, paras have told me, “I don’t know what to do.” Yes, the training is an ongoing process, but I do not believe there is enough formal training. Hard working paras with a zeal to learn and do what is expected should be given ample training.
Setting aside time to train them not only helps them develop professionally, but it also sends a message to them. A message that say, “We care about you and we want you to become better.” The paras that I have trained have been very grateful because they felt like someone cared enough about them to talk with them.
The Role of the Paraprofessional is a small workshop I gave to our paras on an inservice afternoon. The response was overwhelming as I visited with the paras of our district and how they are viewed by their supervisors. The Powerpoint presentation is in my “Box” files on the right.
What are you thoughts on paraprofessional training?
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