A school paraprofessional, similar to a teacher’s aide, assists a teacher in the classroom. She may not be required to have a teaching certificate, but she will have some educational experience. Her responsibilities could include working one-on-one with a student or assisting a group of students. She’ll probably be good at clerical work and computer tasks like word processing.
Before becoming a paraprofessional for a school, an individual may have to pass a series of tests, depending on the region or district where she works. Basic reading, writing, and math comprehension tests may be administered. If the individual fails the first time, the state or another regional authority may allow her to retake the test.
The school paraprofessional’s responsibilities vary, but she usually works closely with students, teachers, and school administrators. If a teacher is called away from the classroom for a short time, the paraprofessional may supervise students and oversee classroom activities. She may answer students’ questions and reaffirm rules and guidelines established by the teacher. A school’s paraprofessional will also handle discipline in the event of student disobedience or disorderly conduct. This could also include preparing reports for the teacher.
Another major responsibility of a paraprofessional for a school is clerical duties. Some of her responsibilities may include filing, keeping reports, and collecting student papers. She’ll be a natural at using classroom technology. She will be proficient in all forms of communication and excel in both written and oral assignments.
A substitute teacher usually fills in when a regular school teacher is absent. Frequently, a paraprofessional will assist the substitute teacher in acclimating. The paraprofessional may provide guidance or instructions for certain classroom procedures as the substitute teacher adjusts to the routine of teaching in the new classroom.
A school’s paraprofessional must follow strict professional ethics. Personal information about students is available to classroom professionals. Any information she has about her students must be kept private. Outside of the classroom, such as on the playground, the paraprofessional is usually in charge of assisting and monitoring student activities. If there is a disagreement or an accident on the school grounds, the paraprofessional will call for assistance while providing it.