Paraeducator Handbook

Qualifications and preservice training for paraeducators

The basic requirements for every paraeducator and the essentials of every preservice orientation program are listed below:

Qualifications

Every paraeducator must have:

• a high school diploma or general equivalency diploma
• previous experience in working successfully with children

Preservice training

New paraeducator orientation prior to working with students should include:

• paraeducator roles and responsibilities
• district overview
• district policies and procedures
• district discipline policy
• district educational jargon
• confidentiality
• safety and emergency procedures
• employment or contract information

New paraeducator orientation during the first two days at the work site should include:

• introduction to building site policies
• procedures and services
• observation and working alongside a mentor in the same position (job shadowing)
• introduction to classroom curriculum, classroom rules and procedures
• school behavior management plan
• specific student information

Basic competencies, skills,
and knowledge training

Paraeducators working with children with disabilities are required to possess basic competencies, skills, and knowledge gained either before or within a specified period after beginning employment. NEA recommends that all paraeducators be given the chance to acquire such basic competencies, skills, and knowledge.

Competencies are identified skills and/or knowledge that an individual must have in order to perform a specific job adequately. They are often divided into:

• core competencies for all paraeducators
• specialized competencies for specific job responsibilities

Core competencies might include skills and knowledge in:

• roles and responsibilities
• communications
• behavior management
• growth and development/psychology
• legal and ethical issues
• instructional strategies
• diversity and equity

Specialized competencies might include skills and knowledge in:

• early childhood/intervention
• students with disabilities
• English as a second language
• transitional programs
• technology
• health and safety
• physical therapy (for students with disabilities)
• occupational therapy (for students with disabilities)

To "Ongoing professional development"