Competency Area B:
Managing the Work of Paraprofessionals
The most important aspect to managing the work of paraprofessionals is to first understand their role in relation to the role of teachers. Paraprofessionals and those around them must realize that paraprofessionals "assist and support" teachers. They are not intended to be the instructional designer or the sole implementer of an instructional program. Paraprofessionals should be involved in the development and design of individualized programs for students because they often have a great deal to contribute given their involvement with students. Teachers can promote a positive working environment; one that will benefit all involved.
Teachers should provide paraprofessionals and substitutes with an orientation to the classroom, the students, and the paraprofessional's responsibilities. This orientation can include a discussion of how the teacher and paraprofessional can work together and clarify each other's preferences and interests.Competencies
- Clearly describes, to each paraprofessional, their roles and responsibilities.
- Maintains regular positive and supportive interaction with paraprofessionals.
- Contributes to the evaluation of paraprofessionals performance with the intent of assisting paraprofessional skill improvement.
- Maintains professionalism through respect, confidentiality, and honoring boundaries.
- Provides beginning and substitute paraprofessionals with an orientation that results in sufficient understanding of the setting, staff, students, and staff roles and responsibilities.
Minnesota Resources and Tools
A variety of resources and tools are provided here for you to use when designing and offering your training for teachers. Some of these resources are referenced within the activities and discussions and you can find them here.
Related PowerPoint Presentation
The following power point presentations are related to this competency area. There can be some overlap in the presentations since the competencies also overlap to some degree. Please revise the presentations in a way that fits your training.
- Managing the Work of Paraprofessionals
- Providing Instructional Support
- What do Paraprofessionals do in Minnesota Classrooms
Activities and Discussion Questions
We have identified some activities and discussion questions you might use when working with teachers. Fran Johnson assisted with this list of activities. Some of the activities bring the activity to the paraprofessionals with whom the teacher works. We encourage active discussion.
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