Home | Resources | ATPE News | Spring 2010 | Para-educators' Place
Para-educators' Place
by Kris Childers, professional development coordinator
Take a bite out of obesity
The statistic is startling: More than 28 percent of adult Texans are obese, according to 2008 data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And the percentage of children considered obese has risen sharply, according to a comparison of data from 1976–1980 with data from 2003–2006.
To combat this serious health issue, cafeteria workers and other educators can try these ideas:
- Talk to kids about healthy eating. For instance, suggest that they choose vegetables over higher-fat options.
- Post wellness bulletin boards around the cafeteria.
- Reward students who are seen eating healthy foods with compliments or with small prizes, such as stickers or certificates.
- Serve as a role model by making healthy eating choices for yourself—especially when you have the opportunity to eat with students.
She’s got the White stuff
In her 25 years with Jacksboro ISD, Linda White has served her community, school and ATPE well. Currently, White serves as the secretary for the Jacksboro Learning Center, an alternative education high school campus. She also serves as Jacksboro ATPE’s secretary and as a campus representative.
“ATPE is the best organization to help teachers and para-educators,” White says. “When I started reading and asking questions about which organization to join, ATPE just seemed to be there for me.”
Working at an alternative learning center can be tough, but White likes the challenges it poses. “I’ve learned there are always crises and deadlines pending in education,” she says. “It is just how you handle [these situations] that makes you stronger!” She joined the team of educators at the center when it opened in 1993. “I knew I wanted to be a part of helping kids graduate,” she says.
Prior to that, White worked for nine years as the aide/secretary in the Jacksboro ISD band department. She is also the secretary for the Jack County Child Welfare Board, which provides services to at-risk, abused and neglected children.
Do you know a para-educator whom ATPE News should recognize? Submit his name to prof_dev@atpe.org.
How to say thanks to the para-educators in your life
- Include aides in your parent conferences. Teacher’s aides might get to know things about students that you don’t. They can offer helpful advice to parents.
- Plan lessons that showcase para-educators’ expertise. For example, if you are planning a lesson on recycling, ask the custodian to speak with your class about ways students can help with school recycling efforts.
- Help one another out. Get to know the bus drivers at your school, and communicate with them regularly. Help your students learn the rules on the bus.
- Host a para-educator appreciation day in your classroom. Invite all of the para-educators you work with to visit your students. Ask your students to make cards to show their own appreciation.
- Help students show respect. Substitute teachers often are treated poorly by students. Remind students of rules and consequences before you must be absent.
©2010 Jupiterimages Corporation
More ATPE News
Transforming Texas' political landscape
The thank-you files
Go Texan
Capitol Comment
Legal Opinions
Educators' Exchange
In the Classroom
Para-educators' Place
News Briefs
Snip-its
Tech Support
Web Bytes
Foundation News
Your Association News