1. I’m A Para-Pro
What’s Your Super Power?
GAYE WILLIAMS

2. 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

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. #1 Purpose
 To provide a positive educational experience so
students become lifelong learners, contributors to
society and positive role models.

7. 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.

8. General Ed Para-Pro
 1 on 1, small groups, whole class.
 Classroom
 Specials
 Lunchroom
 Recess/breaks
 Administrative
 Grading
 Attendance
 Grade cards

9. Special Ed Para-Pro
 1 on 1, small groups, whole class.
 Classroom
 Specials
 Lunchroom/breaks
 Administrative
 Grading
 Attendance
 Grade cards
 IEP’s

10. 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

11. 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

12. 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

13. 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