Paraprofessionals (updated December 2002)
What role do paraprofessionals play in the education of students with disabilities?
There is a growing trend to use paraprofessionals to support students with disabilities in inclusive classrooms. However, few states have programs to train or certify paraprofessionals and few universities teach special education teachers how to utilize them. As their responsibilities increase and become more specialized and comprehensive, the need for training becomes more important. Paraprofessionals help in the inclusive classroom in a variety of ways and have a direct effect on students' academic performance. Paraprofessionals need a knowledge of inclusion practices, as well as knowledge of different forms of classroom instruction and instructional modifications. They provide tutoring and implement teacher-developed instruction, provide personal care for students with disabilities, observe the student and provide suggestions related to instruction for the student, and participate in team meetings. It is important that their role in the educational process be clarified and that there be good communication between them and the classroom teacher.
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