Paraprofessional Job Description

A paraprofessional is a job role that provides instructional and clerical support to teachers and other educational professionals. Common tasks may include assisting with lesson planning, monitoring student behavior in the classroom, helping students with their coursework, and providing support to individuals with special needs.

• Assisting teachers in the classroom by providing individual and small group instruction.
• Developing and implementing individualized education plans (IEPs) for students with special needs.
• Assisting with the development and implementation of behavior management plans.
• Monitoring student progress and providing feedback to teachers and parents.
• Assisting with the development of instructional materials and activities.
• Assisting with the supervision of students in the classroom and on field trips.
• Assisting with the administration of standardized tests.
• Assisting with the development of student portfolios.
• Assisting with the organization and maintenance of student records.
• Assisting with the development of student-centered learning activities.

• Patience: Paraprofessionals must be patient when working with students, as some may require more time and attention than others.
• Empathy: Paraprofessionals must be able to understand and relate to the challenges that students face and provide support accordingly.
• Communication Skills: Paraprofessionals must be able to effectively communicate with students, parents, teachers, and administrators.
• Organization: Paraprofessionals must be able to keep track of student progress, paperwork, and other tasks.
• Flexibility: Paraprofessionals must be able to adjust to the changing needs of students and the school environment.
• Creativity: Paraprofessionals must be able to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions to problems.
• Professionalism: Paraprofessionals must maintain a professional demeanor at all times.
• Interpersonal Skills: Paraprofessionals must be able to build relationships with students and colleagues.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Paraprofessionals must be able to identify problems and come up with solutions.
• Self-Motivation: Paraprofessionals must be able to stay motivated and focused on the task at hand.

A paraprofessional typically works with a teacher or another staff member in a school setting to provide assistance to students. Paraprofessionals may assist with tasks such as student supervision, tutoring, maintaining records, problem solving and classroom management. Depending on the setting, a paraprofessional might also provide translation services or work one-on-one with a student who needs additional academic or behavioral support. Depending on the exact job, day-to-day tasks for a paraprofessional might include helping students maintain focus, providing instructional input to students, organizing school supplies and materials, aiding with lesson plans and providing academic support.

Paraprofessionals are a vital part of the educational system, and they provide academic support to students and teachers in classrooms, schools, and districts. Paraprofessionals need to have good communication and organization skills, as well as the ability to provide guidance and instruction to students. Although experience in the field of education is helpful for becoming a paraprofessional, there are many other types of jobs and work histories that can make someone a great candidate.

Here are 5-10 compatible job titles:

• Teacher’s Assistant
• Child and Youth Worker
• Administrative Assistant
• Tutor
• Social Services Worker
• After-School Program Facilitator
• Early Childhood Educator
• Support Worker
• Child Care Worker
• Youth Mentor