Utilizing Aides: Myth or Truth

Multiple Choice

Myth or Truth?

Paraprofessionals always understand and support the inclusive philosophy

that places them in the general classroom.

• Myth

• Truth

​Myth!

Many paraprofessionals actually prefer the special education classroom and find the general classroom confusing and overwhelming.

Multiple Choice

Myth or Truth?

The paraprofessional will see that all the needs of

the students with special needs are met.

• Myth

• Truth

​Myth!

The paraprofessional is a support person - needs should be met by collaborative planning by all those involved in the students' education.

Multiple Choice

Myth or Truth?

The Paraprofessional doesn’t always know what to do with a student.

• Myth

• Truth

​Truth!

The assumption is often made that if a paraprofessional is placed in a classroom with a student then they know what to do. The reality is this might be the first time they are working with the student and have very little to no information.

Multiple Choice

Myth or Truth?

The paraprofessional is fully trained for his or her classroom assignment.

• Myth

• Truth

​Myth!

Training often occurs on the job and is the responsibility of all the professionals associated with the student and program. Many times it falls on us - the classroom teacher - to provide proper training. (Just add it to the list...)

Multiple Choice

Myth or Truth?

The paraprofessional receives all instructions and directions

from the special education teacher.

• Myth

• Truth

​Myth!

The paraprofessional should receive some instruction from the special education teacher, some guidance from the general education teacher and background information from related service providers/Child Study Team.

Multiple Choice

Myth or Truth?

Teachers are always trained and prepared to work with paraprofessionals.

• Myth

• Truth

​Myth!

Teachers are not always prepared to direct, evaluate or provide feedback and training to paraprofessionals. The students are sometimes new to us too and sometimes the "training" happens simultaneously.

Multiple Choice

Myth or Truth?

The paraprofessional can work with all students in the classroom.

• Myth

• Truth

​Truth!

But this is a grey area. The paraprofessional can work with all students as long as the needs of the identified students are being met. There are many paraprofessionals who are assigned 1:1 for various reasons. In some cases, the student can be left to work independently. In these cases offering assistance to others is not mandatory, although appreciated. Use your best judgement here.