In the last section, we explored the Core Competencies for Special Education Paraeducators from the CEC. You may recall that Area 1 of the Competencies addresses “Professional Learning and Ethical Practice” – key components of professionalism. Skill 1.9 requires paraeducators to “Maintain boundaries for relationships and communication with students and their families within the professional and ethical scope of responsibility.” This includes understanding and practicing confidentiality in their relationships with colleagues, students, and their families.
Most paras receive training in the area of confidentiality, but often it is still a problematic issue for educators – especially for paras, who often have closer ties to the community at large. As a mentor, confidentiality – and professional issues in general – are often uncomfortable topics of conversation for you to have with your para. So, how do you begin such a conversation? Crucial Conversations provides valuable tips for these conversations.
As noted on the tip sheet, it may be helpful to have some resources to support either your conversation or the next steps. Below are a few resources to explore, depending on the needs of your para.
Resources
Reflect
Which of these resources might you find useful in supporting your para in the area of professional ethics and behavior?