While we have been focusing thus far on the paraeducator role of helping with instruction, paras typically perform a multitude of roles within a school system. Listen to this interview with Jenny Abell, Director of Student Services at Fostoria City Schools, as she describes the various roles paraeducators perform in her school district. Then brainstorm a list of paraeducator roles in your district/organization and share them with your colleagues on this Padlet.
Your list can likely be categorized in one of the following general domains:
- Instructional support
- Behavioral support
- Physical/medical support
- Supervisory support
As you review the multitude of roles that paras fulfill in your organization, focus on the individual para who may be mentoring, or any para whose responsibilities you are familiar with. Keep this para and their roles in mind as you progress through this module, being mindful how their specific role(s) may impact the mentoring styles and strategies you employ in supporting this paraeducator.