I’m A Para-Pro What’s Your Super Power?

GAYE WILLIAMS

What is a Para-Pro?

“A person to whom a particular aspect of a professional task is delegated but who is not licensed to practice as a fully qualified professional.”-Webster’s

“A worker who is not licensed to teach, but performs many duties with students and organizationally in the classroom.”-Wiki

We support the teacher We can become certified, which is not the same as being licensed We are enrichment centers

Regulation

No Child Left behind Act-Federal legislation Requires ParaPro’s be “Highly Qualified.” Definition is left to individual states. U.S. Dept. of Ed has guidelines for Title 1.

Who do I work for?

I work at Maple Valley Public Schools. I work with teachers and support staff on cross functional teams. I work for the students. I am paid by the taxpayers. I am accountable to all.

What is a Para-Pro’s Purpose?

To make a positive difference. Ensure the students’ educational objectives are met. Ensure the students’ emotional welfare. Ensure the students’ behavior is acceptable and age appropriate. To keep the students’ safe and healthy while in our care. To provide a positive learning environment. To put the students needs first and foremost. So each student not only meets but exceeds expectations.

#1 Purpose

To provide a positive educational experience so students become lifelong learners, contributors to society and positive role models.

Recognition

I recognize that: Every second is a teachable moment. There is never enough time in a school day. My tasks are never-ending and my job description is endlessly evolving. Every action, word and gesture is being watched so choose wisely. I will be given sensitive information that is never to be shared. I am paid to be a positive role model to make a positive difference. I help students to make choices that are best for them. I am a buffer, a barrier, a voice, an advocate for the students. I walk a fine line between helping and enabling.

General Ed Para-Pro

1 on 1, small groups, whole class. Classroom Specials Lunchroom Recess/breaks Administrative

Grading Attendance Grade cards

Special Ed Para-Pro

1 on 1, small groups, whole class. Classroom Specials Lunchroom/breaks Administrative

Grading Attendance Grade cards

IEP’s

Bag of Tricks

Schedules Always have a contingency plan Preparing for rainy days Journal Communication Stations Board Maker and Picture Writer

Software I.S.D.

Weighted vests, stress balls, chew toys, wiggle seats and lap bugs

Brushing and compressions Exercises Training Continuing Education Networking

When Problems Arise

Lack of proper/effective communication Asked to do things we aren’t trained for Asked to do things/tasks outside of support role in the classroom Asked to perform a therapy for which isn’t in a student’s IEP New Teacher or Substitute Old Teacher or Old Substitute

Training and Certifications

Paraprofessional certificate C.P.I.- Crisis Prevention and Intervention S.T.A.R.T. –Statewide Autism Resources and Training First Aid and C.P.R. O.T., P.T., Speech Therapies

Resourses

U.S, Dept. of Education Michigan State Dept. of Education National Paraeducator Resource Center Council for Exceptional Children 321insight.com PD360 G.V.S.U. /Autism Center