1. What are the roles and responsibilities of the paraprofessional in the classroom?
The role of a paraprofessional will vary depending upon the student needs within the classroom. Some common roles are as follows: planning with teachers; monitoring student progress and checking for understanding during initial teacher instruction; assisting students with guided practice and independent practice following initial instruction by the teacher; constructing accommodations necessary for instruction; assisting students with adaptive devices and health needs; clerical activities; student monitoring duties; etc.
2. Can the paraprofessional provide support to other students in the classroom?
Absolutely. Paraprofessionals, under teacher direction, can provide support to any struggling learner within the classroom.
3. What lesson plans does the paraprofessional follow?
The paraprofessional follows the lesson plan of the teacher he/she is working with at the time.
4. Does the paraprofessional get planning time?
This is a campus-by-campus decision. However, it is imperative that the paraprofessional has some time to plan with the teacher he/she will be working with in order for support facilitation to be effective. The amount of time needed for planning will vary depending upon the needs of the students, the training of the paraprofessional, and the working relationship of the teacher and the paraprofessional.