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Para-educators Checklist
To help you get organized, here’s a checklist of items
you should begin taking action on the first day of school. (Compliments of Paraprofessionals: Training for the Classroom,
written by Carolyn S. Houk and Robert McKenzie.)
- Exchange telephone numbers with the teacher.
- Learn emergency procedures in case of fire or other emergencies.
- Become familiar with the daily classroom schedule.
- Make sure you completely understand your job description.
- Figure out how best to divide your time among tasks.
- Learn the teacher’s discipline methods.
- Find out how the teacher wants you to assist in student discipline.
- Know what student records you’re supposed to keep and where to
file them.
- Find out what outside-the-classroom activities (i.e., lunchtime or
recess) you’re responsible for.
- Know where supplies are kept.
- Know where to obtain equipment.
- Know how to operate all classroom equipment.
- Become familiar with school policy concerning the release of a child
to a parent (or other adult).
- Become familiar with school policy regarding the reporting of
suspected child abuse or neglect.
Communication and cooperation are essential for successful
teacher-para-educator partnerships. The following tips from the American
Guidance Service can help you develop successful working relationships in any
classroom.
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Para-educators
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Teachers
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- Become familiar with the teacher’s
instructional methods for individual and group activities.
- Make your own careful observations of student
behavior, particularly watching for changes, and share your observations
with the teacher.
- Be a self-starter. When you’re reasonably
certain of what the teacher wants done, don’t wait to be told.
- Take on new responsibilities with a positive
attitude.
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- If the para-educator is new to the job,
gradually phase her or him into the job’s full responsibilities, and offer
a lot of encouragement.
- Discuss with the para-educator the
procedures and discipline techniques you use in your classroom.
- When you are absent, let the substitute
teacher know what the para-educator’s responsibilities are.
- Encourage initiative and recognize the
para-educaator's skills, keeping them in mind when assigning tasks.
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