Aids & Classroom Support
Paraeducators have become more prominent in the educational system and are often working directly with our students in special education. It is important to define what a paraeducator is and does.
A paraeducator is an individual employed by a school district or charter to give instructional support to students at a preschool, elementary, or secondary school level under the direction and supervision of a certified teacher. Some of these supports can include:
- One-on-one tutoring
- Assist with classroom management
- Instructional assistance in a computer lab
- Instructional support in a library or media center
- Act as a translator
You may have heard of the titles paraprofessional or paraeducator. Depending on your school district, these titles may also be referred to as a teaching assistant, aide, or instructor. The purpose of an aid is to support students in gaining access to the general education curriculum. These supports could include things such as behavior support, sensory challenges or to help with executive functioning skills. If you feel your child may need more support in the classroom, reach out to your child’s IEP team. For more information on the role of paraprofessionals, click on the links below.
