The NRCP Conference
Announcing the 2012 Conference!
Hold on to Your Hats, We're Goin' to Texas!!
On March 1-3, 2012 the 30th National Conference for Paraeducators & Related Service Providers will be held in San Antonio Texas at the Hilton Palacio Del Rio.
Download the full Save the Date Flyer to Print and Share
5 Reasons You Will Want to Attend Next Years's Conference...
An opportunity to:
- Meet and network with paraprofessionals from other states.
- Attend diverse workshops covering ELL, special and general education, reading, writing, behavior management, nutrition and much more.
- Learn techniques for improving student behavior and academic performance.
- Earn CPE Hours or 1 University Credit.
- Discuss paraeducator training and career development with local, state, and national leaders.
Take a look at the presentations and pictures from the 2011 conference.
Be sure to sign up for our email newsletter to be notified for future conference news.
Conference Registration
You can contact us using our online web form or at 435-797-7272 with any questions.
If you would prefer to print out and mail in the conference registration form or pay by money order, you can download the registration form.
Paraeducator Leadership Networking Session
Download a flyer about the Leadership Session
The Paraeducator Leadership Networking Session will be held in conjunction with the National Resource Center for Paraeducators Conference at the Hilton Palacio Del Rio Hotel in San Antonio, Texas
When
Wednesday, February 29, 2012 from 4:30 – 7:30 PM.
WHERE
Hilton Palacio Del Rio Hotel (ask about the room location when you check in for the conference on February 29).
WHO SHOULD ATTEND
This session is open to "State Paraeducator Leaders" as well as National and International leaders; that is, people who are engaged in activities to promote paraeducator leadership at a variety of levels within their respective states or countries, for example, state staff; state or regional training and TA staff; higher education personnel; persons promoting leadership through involvement in various state or international activities, labor organizations, committees, advisory groups; etc.
In the past this session has been referred to as the “State Paraeducator Leadership Session”. However, due to increased attendance from other countries, we are expanding the invitation to be inclusive of all those coming to our conference. All interested parties may attend.
WHAT WE WILL WE BE DOING
During our session, representatives from each state/ organiation will be asked to highlight one major state/national level accomplishment from which others may benefit. Time permitting, we will also discuss issues with which we are dealing and on which we want input from others. This session will give us a chance to meet others in similar roles at the beginning of the conference to facilitate continued networking throughout conference.
FOOD AVAILABILITY/WHAT DOES IT COST:
There is no fee for registration and attendance at the State Leadership Session. Attendees have the option to order a meal, if they prefer, for the cost of $18. This will be a light salad/soup buffet dinner. If you are interested in participating in the dinner, please indicate and make payment upon registration for the session.
HOW TO REGISTER FOR THE PARAEDUCATOR LEADERSHIP NETWORKING SESSION
Registration is limited to the first 75 registered on a first come, first-served basis.
You can register on-line below:
You can also download a registration form here.
FYI, registering for this Leadership session is separate from registering for the conference. If you have not yet registered for the conference, do it now...before January 20, 2012...and take advantage of the Early Bird Special. Conference Registration is available here
We look forward to seeing you in San Antonio.
Hotel and Travel Information
Hotel Information
Hilton Palacio del Rio Hotel
200 South Alamo Street, San Antonio, Texas
United States 78205
Reservations
Room Rate: $149 Single or Double Rooms
Call 1-800-HILTONS and ask for the National Resource Center Room Block Rate or by the code "NRCP".
A personalized website for the National Resource Center for Paraeducators has been created for the conference. Guests can access the site to learn more about the event and to book, modify, or cancel a reservation until January 29, 2012.
Go to the Conference Hotel website.
check in time is 3:00 PM; check-out time is 12:00 PM.
Transportation
The Hilton Palacio del Rio Hotel is 11 miles form the San Antonio International Airport. An airport shuttle is available for $18 each way.
Parking
Hotel self parking is available at $22 (with in and out privileges per day per car). Daily parking in the surrounding area starts as low as $5 per day.
Internet
Internet will be provided to all guests on a complimentary basis.
Conference Exhibitors
Download the Exhibitor Information as a Printable Flyer
Join us on March 1-3, 2012 in San Antonio, Texas for the 30th National Resource Center for Paraeducators Conference.
We are expecting 500-600 paraprofessionals, parents, policymakers, and administrators in state and local education, personnel developers in 2- and 4-year colleges, as well as many other stakeholders and service providers.
Don’t miss this excellent opportunity to spotlight your products and materials!
Register now to be included in our Special Conference Edition newsletter where exhibitors will be featured. In this edition, we will list your business name and brief description of your services.
Registration and Setup
Registration pick-up begins Wednesday afternoon, February 29, 2012 at 4:00 PM. The conference will begin on Thursday, March 1 and continues through Saturday, March 3. Exhibitors will be allowed to set up Wednesday evening. Additional shipping and set-up information will provided upon sign-up.
Conference Location
Hilton Palacio del Rio Hotel
200 South Alamo Street,
San Antonio, Texas 78205
Telephone: 1-210-222-1400
Fax: 1-210-270-0761
Exhibitor Fees
Table space is available at the rate of $150 per tale for education and non-profit organizations and $200 for all other vendors (easels will be provided if requested).
Additional AV equipment is available for a few upon request. Contact the Palacio del Rio Hilton AV department at 1-210-222-1400 for pricing and availability
Note: Limited electronic outlets will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Download the Exhibitor Registration Form
Additional Information
Should you have any additional questions, please contact Connie Beck at (435) 797-7272 or connie@nrcpara.org.
Conference Experiences
Wondering whether you should attend the next conference in Salt Lake City? Here are some experiences from past attendees.
First, from some Paraeducators from Meadowbrook Schools in Warwick, Rhode Island:
“We attended the National Resource Center for Paraprofessionals’ 27th National Conference from April 17 through April 19, 2008. This conference was held at the Hilton Hartford Hotel in Hartford, Connecticut.
"There were a wide variety of presentations for each session. There were 6 to 10 choices for each time slot. At times it was quite difficult to choose just one to attend, but those that we did choose were strictly educational and would be extremely important tools for us to apply at Meadowbrook School.
"The instructors and educators were knowledgeable and motivational. We left fully energized, with new insight and a renewed pride in our positions as Paraprofessionals. We learned how different School Districts in different States view paraprofessionals. We also now understand how different school systems allow the implementation of “on–line”credits for the paraprofessional in order to gain certification without the necessity for them to attend classes during school hours.
"One presenter, Ms. Cindy Meyers, provided valuable insight into the world of children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder. Another, Jim Olsen, offered two sessions on relating topics: “Cultivating Positive Energy to Overcome Negativity and Adversity Which Can Drain Energy”; and another which shared ways that we would be able to put ourselves back in charge without undermining a child’s sense of security and self-worth. Finally, we attended an amazing session which developed into an open discussion on antisocial behavior. We were able to share ideas and strategies with a standing room only crowd of approximately 50 people. This information was invaluable."
Here is another experience from Zachary Rossetti, Assistant Professor of Elementary Special Education at Providence College:
“I think that the idea of a conference focused on paraprofessionals is incredibly important because they often are working most closely and most often with students with significant disabilities. They are ultimately responsible for actually providing the specific services outlined in student IEPs. A conference such as this recognizes this crucial role and works to prepare paraprofessionals and to alert them of the latest research and ideas around best practice. It also engenders camaraderie that helps all of us re-energize during our busy and stressful school years. I really enjoyed my first conference this past year because I met many dedicated people doing great work, especially several individuals who spoke of being the only ones in their schools or districts fighting for more inclusive supports on behalf of families and children with disabilities.
"I would recommend this conference to all professionals working with students with disabilities (especially administrators, therapists, and teachers in addition to paraprofessionals) so that they can recognize the crucial role of paraprofessionals while learning about latest research and practical classroom strategies. Further, I feel that teams of teachers, therapists, administrators, and paraprofessionals should attend together to help develop real team cohesion that can ultimately serve families and students better.
Past Conferences
To get a taste of what will be be happening at the 2008 National Conference in Connecticut, here are schedules from past conferences as well as presentations and notes from a few of the presenters.
2006 Conference
In 2006, the 25th National Conference on the Training and Employment of Paraprofessionals was held in the Sheraton Bloomington Hotel in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The conference was held with the support of the Minnesota Paraprofessional Consortium, the Minnesota Department of Education and the Institute on Community Integration in the College of Education and Human Development at the University of Minnesota.
You can review the conference schedule and even view some of the conference presentations in the links below:
2006 Conference Presentations
Enjoy the slides and notes from some of our 2006 conference presenters.
Building Better Behavior: A Program Describing Fundamental Behavior Strategies Appropriate for Paraeducators
From Bob Morgan, Department of Special Education and Rehabilitation
Utah State University
TRISPED Projects
What is the purpose of Building Better Behavior? This CD-ROM program describes proven ways to address common behaviors in classrooms or other school settings. The approaches are called Behavior Builders. Some Behavior Builders emphasize positive approaches for teaching appropriate alternative behaviors to replace problem behaviors. This approach is used because many students who display behavior problems are not skilled in performing appropriate behaviors – they need to be taught how, when, and where to display new behaviors. Other Behavior Builders are designed to prevent problems before they start – called proactive approaches. The purpose is to provide basic strategies for interacting with students. It is not a set of behavioral intervention procedures, but fundamental methods for building better behaviors.
When is this program relevant? Behavior Builders is useful in addressing common behaviors in school classrooms or other educational settings. Used appropriately, Behavior Builders may significantly reduce behavior problems.
What is the paraeducator's role in this program? As direct service providers, paraeducators are frequently in situations where they need to manage student behavior. Building Better Behavior is written in practical language for paraeducators working in classrooms and Title I programs. It can be shared with teachers and other team members, including parents. Building Better Behavior is based on the thinking that fundamental skills in verbal interaction, timing of communications, and rapport-building will eliminate many problem behaviors before they occur. Many of the strategies will be immediately usable by paraeducators because they require no formal training in behavior analysis.
What else must be considered before starting a Behavior Builder?
Preliminary strategies. Behavior Builders are similar to preliminary strategies. Preliminary strategies may be used in conjunction with Behaviors Builders to maximize success. Preliminary strategies include
- using appropriate and engaging curriculum,
- providing opportunities for students with special needs to interact with typical students in regular education settings,
- creating a limited number of positively stated rules for each school setting,
- promoting communication opportunities for all students,
- arranging the environment to enhance learning and reduce problem behaviors,
- establishing high rates of praise statements from instructors to students for behavior and academic performance,
- setting a rapid pace of instruction, and
- reducing down time, and so forth.
In this presentation, the presenter will describe and demonstrate excerpts of the Building Better Behavior CD-ROM program. The exhibit at the conference invites paraeducators and others to stop by to use the program at their convenience.
The 15 Behavior Builders include
- Name first
- Specific instructions
- Ask student to repeat instructions
- Distinguish specific instructions from choices
- Forecasting expectations
- Establishing expectations for transitions
- Recognizing/praising actions
- Praise around
- The name game
- Reinforcing for asking to take a 10-sec break
- Reinforcing for signaling for help
- Reinforcing for asking "When can I …?"
- Reinforcing for appropriately getting the instructor’s attention
- Reinforcing successive approximations
For more information, contact Technology, Research, and Innovation in Special Education (TRI-SPED) at Utah State University, 1-877-722-3991 or www.trisped.org
[1] Presented at the 25th National Conference on the Training and Employment of Paraprofessionals, Bloomington, Minnesota, May 11 and 12, 2006
Hawaii State Department of Education and Community Colleges: Partnerships in Paradise
From Dale Asami, Judith Kappenberg, Lorelei Karasaki and Louise Pagotto
Partnerships in Paradise
Building the Future - One Student at a Time
Associates in Arts in Teaching Program
How Can We Use Assessment Techniques to Enhance the Learning of Pareducators? Or, How Do We Know if Our Students Are Learning?
From Susan Simon, Doug Van Oort, Julie Wenzel and Carolyn Cleveland
Keys for the Future Paraprofessionals Becoming Teachers
From Susie Branon and Lisa Oden
Learning, Talking and Creating Change: Different Formats for Conversations About Practice
From Mary Fisher and Brooke Baker:
Load Your Toolbox: Behavioral Strategies for Everyone
T = Take care of your own needs
O = OK to borrow tools from others
O = Open your mind and ask questions
L = Listen to each other
S = Start and End on time
TO DO LIST!
- Introduction
- Rules of the Thumb
- Whitewashing the fence
- Don't Make Me Build It
- Are you the Contractor?
- Opening Up Your Toolbox
- Measure Twice, Cut once
- Project Completed
You are the contractor. Think about these things:
- Are there other things happening which may make the behavior worse?
- Does the student know and understand the what is expected?
- Does the student have the ability/skill to do what is asked of him/her?
- Does the student have enough time to do what is expected?
- Did the adult use respect when dealing with the student?
- The voice remains calm
- The student's personal space is honored
- The student is not embarrassed in front of peers
- Nonverbal and verbals interactions are appropriate
Measure Twice – Cut Once Questions
- Is the tool socially acceptable?
- Does it make sense?
- Is it humane?
- Can you afford it?
- Is it legal?
- Can you tell others about it?
- Does the tool have some way of helping the student manage their own behavior?
- Can the tool be implemented without causing too much distraction for the rest of the class?
- Will the tool work?
- Will this tool reduce the need for "tougher" tools?
- Will this tool work in other settings?
- Will the behavior transfer to other settings?
- Will the tool solve the problem behavior without making a bigger behavior problem?
I've come to a frightening conclusion that I am the decisive element in the classroom. It's my personal approach that creates the climate. It's my daily mood that makes the weather. As a teacher (or a paraeducator), I possess a tremendous power to make a child's life miserable or joyous. I can be a tool of torture or an instrument of inspiration. I can humiliate or humor, hurt or heal. In all situations, it is my response that decides whether a crisis will be escalated or de-escalated and a child humanized or dehumanized. --Haim Ginott
Trying
Our darnedest to
Overcome
Landmines
Successfully
We cannot make a kid behave.
It will drive us to our grave.
In olden days, the rules we knew,
"Do it and it will be done to you!"
If we slugged, then we got hit.
If we chomped down, we got bit.
Now policies and rules have changed:
"Hit a kid! Are you deranged?"
Now we work to give the clues
To reinforce behaviors that we choose
Misbehavior we redirec
Quirks and foibles to correct.
We fill our box with tools galore
Always trying not to bore.
We do the research, try our tricks,
To give the skills kids need to fix.
The final strategy, if you dare...
Just let your students know, "I care!"
Anyone can punish or control, but it takes the best, the brightest, the most skilled, and the most creative educators to inspire students through positive programming.
If a child doesn't know how to read... we teach.
If a child doesn't know how to swim... we teach.
If a child doesn't know how to multiply... we teach.
If a child doesn't know how to behave... we punish.
John Herner
Behavior Tools
Removal or Introduction of Antecedents:
- Look at the behavior to decide what might be causing the behavior – what is happening just before the behavior shows up, it is a class, a certain time, a certain group of people? Also look for times when the behavior is not present.
- Change the situation (antecedent) and replace with an appropriate behavior situation (the good times).
- As the new behavior is learned and used, slowly reintroduce the antecedents which caused the inappropriate behavior.
Change the Task:
- Look at the task – it is too difficult, easy, or boring.
- Break the task into smaller chunks, give extra help, or plan for success.
- Increase the demands of the task as success happens.
Change the Position:
- Move the student to a new position in the room or at their desk to finish the task.
- Allow the student to do the problem on the whiteboard, stand at her desk, and sit on the floor.
Change the Schedule:
- Give breaks more often.
- Move difficult tasks to a different time of day.
- Break down the tasks between "seat" time and activity time.
- Time between activities or breaks can be lengthened a little at a time.
Redirect:
- Give a verbal/nonverbal cue/prompt which can lead to a more appropriate behavior.
- The cue/prompt redirects the student's attention.
- Be sure the cue doesn't call attention to the inappropriate behavior.
Choice Training:
- Teach students how to make choices. The choices need to have significance to the student.
- Give the student wait time to make the choice before giving prompts.
- The activities (choices) may be like doing math worksheet or writing a story now. It could be between two free time activities.
Verbal Cueing:
- Give a verbal cue that leads to the appropriate behavior.
- Example: I like the way Julie is sitting quietly.
Proximity:
- Make the student aware that you are close and aware of them.
- This could be eye contact, a tap on the desk, or walking past the student's desk.
- Teach self-management skills so proximity could be done from across the room.
Using Reinforcers:
- First decide what is reinforcing to the student(s).
- Use reinforcers when appropriate behavior is demonstrated or approximations toward completing the correct behavior.
- Use social reinforcers (praise, smiles) before primary reinforcers (food, drinks, stickers) if possible.
- Have a plan for fading out primary reinforcers.
Modeling and self-modeling with videotape feedback:
- Model the appropriate behavior for the student, talking about what is appropriate.
- This could possibly be done with videotaping the student and stopping the tape and discussing the behavior.
- Have the student practice the behavior or watch the video and talk about times the behavior is appropriate.
Functional communication training:
- Sometimes a student can not communicate their needs which lead to inappropriate behavior. An alternate communication system needs to be used.
- This could be sign language, Boardmaker pictures in a book, assistive technology devices, and pictures on a schedule.
- The student will need to be taught how to use the communication system using prompts and modeling.
Anger Control training:
- The adults need to determine what is happening just before the behavior happens.
- The student is taught self-statements like "Relax, stop, calm down, count to 10" to use before the behavior happens.
- Others things that could be used would be "pauses for the cause" like moving to a different spot in the room, asking to go get a drink or go to a different room.
- The student needs to reflect on the behavior and ways to handle it.
Directly teach a replacement behavior:
- The student is taught to replace an inappropriate behavior with an appropriate behavior through modeling, cueing, and prompting.
- For example, if a student touches/pushes other students when lining up, and they have been taught Body Basics for lining up, then every time the students line up, the teacher/para say, "Remember to use good Body Basics."
Preparation for Change:
- Some students don't deal well with a change to their routine or sudden, unexpected events.
- If at all possible, explain changes in the routine or activities in advance and why this is happening.
Explanation of Consequences:
- Discuss with the student the possible consequences of a behavior.
- This can be used before and/or after an inappropriate behavior – (if you doÉ, what will happen? Because you É., now what will happen?)
Verbal Command:
- Sometimes a student doesn't think about a behavior or can't stop it.
- Use a direct verbal command like "Stop running in the hall." Use a calm voice and do not shout.
Simple Restitution:
1. This is used to have a student undo the result of the behavior (wash
the tables after using marker on them).
2. Do not embarrass the student in front of their peers.
Blocking:
- The adult positions themselves between or removes others from the student. This would be if the student was hitting another student, throwing things, or running from the room.
- Be sure not to put yourself in danger.
- Don't raise your voice and remain calm.
Brief holding:
- A mild restraint (like holding a student's hands down momentarily, for less than 20 seconds) is used to stop a self-abusive behavior like biting, pinching, etc. Don't struggle with the student.
- 2. Remain neutral. Focus the attention on the activity.
Time Out:
- This is used for disruptive or aggressive behavior which is reinforced by peer attention.
- Take the student to a time-out area; tell the student what the inappropriate behavior is, and how long they will be in time-out. Set a timer.
- Calmly discuss the behavior that is appropriate and ask the student if they are ready to come back to the group. If not, the timer needs to be set again.
- The time-out period should be brief (3-5 minutes).
Paraeducator Training: Making the Decisions and Finding the Materials That Meet Your District's Needs
From Nancy French:
Paraprofessional Orientation: Need to Know
From Sharon JohnsonYou can also download the handout that went with this presentation:
PDF version of the handout
Microsoft Word Version of the Document
Proactive Planning for Highly Qualified Paraeducator Staff Development
From Mary Lasater and Sheila Fernley
Proud to Be a Para Because I Make a Difference!
Strategies for Incorporating the National Reading Panels Five Components of Reading into the Classroom
From Bonnie Houck
Study Groups As a Professional Development Model for Paraprofessionals
From Kjell Fenn
The Art of Synergy-Building Effective Teacher/Paraeducator Teams
From Deanna Avis
The Choice is Yours: Do You Want to Help or Hamper Inclusion?
From Ritu Chopra (Session 1)
The PAR²A Center Web site
The Effective Use of Teacher Assistants
Peggy Hayden and Ann Marie Dubuque
Teacher Assistants Website
- RI Department of Education Policy and Professional Development Infrastructure For Teacher Assistants 2005-06
- Effective Use Of Teacher Assistants A Module For Policy And Practice Development
- RI Department of Education Teacher Assistants Newsletter
(From their abstract)
This session will address strategies being used in RI to support districts in the effective use of teacher assistants. These include state and local leadership and infrastructure development, policy, data collection, and professional development strategies and resources. Participants will be made aware of a module on the Effective Use of Teacher Assistants that they can download for free at http://www.ritap.org/ta on the Resources webpage and adapt to their situation.
Session Description: Using an interactive lecture format, this session will highlight state and local:
- Leadership and infrastructure development
- Policy including state standards and guidelines and local policy development
- Data collection including a new statewide computerized data collection system that is under development for collecting and analyzing data at state and local levels related to TA qualifications, assignments and professional development acquired and needed.
- Professional development strategies and resources including use of a module on the Effective Use of Teacher Assistants that they can download for free and adapt to their situation. This module addresses:
- How to Use this Module
- Research Related To Teacher Assistants
- Legal Requirements Related To Teacher Assistants And Other Paraprofessionals
- Instructional Team Model
- Job Descriptions For Teacher Assistants
- Considerations For Assigning Teacher Assistants
- Orientation Of Teacher Assistants
- Professional Development For Instructional Team Members
- Supervision Of Teacher Assistants
- Performance Evaluation Of Teacher Assistants
- Orientation Exercise for Effective Use of Teacher Assistants Module
- Guided Discussion
- Bibliography
Tracking Student Behaviors' So That Administrators and Staff Can Identify Strategies to Help All Students Be Successful
From Harlan Leopold
The participants will learn how to effectively track student discipline, receive a copy of a behavior improvement plan, receive a copy of a discipline referral plan, view examples of curricula that deal directly with working to resolve undesirable behaviors, receive a list of videos used with the curricula, and participate in a discussion of techniques used in the Responsibility Center.
Transition Needs of Older Youth With Disabilities
From Joe Timmons
Institute on Community Integration
2006 Conference Schedule
25thNational Conference for Paraprofessionals Schedule (2006)
Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday
Wednesday May 10th, 2006
| 4:00-7:30 PM | Registration in the Ballroom Foyer at the Sheraton Bloomington Hotel |
Thursday, May 11th, 2006
| 7:00 AM -5:00 PM | Registration - Ballroom Foyer |
| 7:30-8:30 AM | Continental Breakfast - Garden Court |
| 7:00 AM-9:00 PM | Exhibits - Garden Court |
| 8:30-8:45 | Ballroom Center and East Introduction and Welcome-Commissioner of Education, Alice Seagren and Barbara Jo Stahl, Minnesota Department of Education |
| 8:45 -9:45 |
Ballroom Center and East Keynote Speaker: Scott McConnell Promoting Literacy Development in Young Children |
| 9:45-10:00 | Break |
| 10:00-11:30 | Session 1: Veranda 1-4 Ritu Chopra Choice is Yours: Do You Want to Help or Hamper Inclusion? |
| Session 2: Veranda 5-8 Kent Gerlach Let's Team Up: Communication and Team Building Strategies for Paraeducator and Teacher Teams |
|
| Session 3: Atrium 7 Hungti Hsu Law Suits and Legal Issues Regarding Paraprofessionals |
|
| Session 4: Atrium 2 Arlene Barresi Paraeducator and Teacher Trainers/Mentors: A New Approach to Staff Development |
|
| Session 5: Atrium 1 Mary Lasater and Sheila Fernley Proactive Planning for Highly Qualified Paraeducator Staff Development |
|
| Session 6: Edina Mary Wiesen and Ellen Crayne Para University: Math Strategies |
|
| Session 7: Atrium 8 Marilyn Likins Building Systems in Utah: A Blueprint for Success | |
| Session 8: Plaza 1 Anna Lou Pickett, Peggy Hayden and Susan Simon Strategies for Establishing Policies and Building Systems to Support and Strengthen Teacher and Paraeducator Teams |
|
|
Session 9: Bloomington Lynette Dobberpuhl Packing Light: Essential Tools for Paraprofessionals |
|
| Session 10: Atrium 3 Linda Alsop Paraeducators Working With Students With Deaf/Blind Disabilities-Stepping Up to the Next Level |
|
| 11:30-1:00 | Lunch (On Your Own) |
| 1:00-2:30 | Session 11: Veranda 1-4 Ivory Mitchell and Patsy Wilburn Building Professional Development for Educational Support Professionals |
| Session 12: Plaza 1 Christine Macfarlane and Hayley Hill Moving Up the Career Development Ladder: From Paraprofessional to Special Education Teacher |
|
| Session 13: Bloomington Robert Morgan Building Better Behavior: A Program Describing Fundamental Behavior Strategies for Paraeducators (Repeat Session 45 - Friday) | |
| Session 14: Atrium 7 Elena Sandoval-Lucero Identifying Resources for Paraeducator Professional Development |
|
| Session 15: Atrium 6 Barbara Jo Stahl, Paul Wasko and Sally Baas Para efolio-Your Talent Skills and Abilities in an Electronic Portfolio | |
| Session 16: Plaza 2 Adam Wendt MISSION |
|
| Session 17: Atrium 1 Emily Williams, Mary Deluney, Terry Ann Flynn, Rick Norby and Mary Jo Connolly Working Together to Address the Teacher Shortage in Minnesota-Teacher Corps, Minneapolis Public Schools, Minneapolis Teacher's Union & St. Mary's University | |
| Session 18: Veranda 5-8 Betty Montgomery and Linda Gray Training and Professional Development Opportunities for Paraprofessionals |
|
| Session 19: Edina Jim Olson Nonviolent Communication | |
| Session 20: Atrium 2 Abdallah Bendada Paraprofessional Standards and Development Programs |
|
| 2:30-3:00 | Break - Gardan Court |
| 3:00-4:30 | Session 21: Veranda 1-4 Kent Gerlach Current State and National Issues Regarding Paraeducators: Their Qualifications, Roles, Training and Supervision |
| Session 22: Veranda 5-8 Alice Brody GETTING PREPARED: A Statewide Initiative to Assist Paraprofessionals in New York State Meet New State and Federal Requirements |
|
| Session 23: Bloomington Mary Fisher, Brooke Baker & Wanda Hubbard Educators Learning, Talking and Creating Change: Different Formats for Conversations About Practice | |
| Session 24: Edina Harlan Leopold Tracking Student Behaviors' So That Administrators and Staff Can Identify Strategies to Help All Students Be Successful |
|
| Session 25: Atrium 1 Caroline Doerr, Mike Lee, Saliban Garbiye, Abdi Ali, Richard Zehn and Wangyal Ritzekura Diverse Student Populations: Welcoming Immigrant Students and Their Families to Our Educational System | |
| Session 26: Atrium 7 Thalia Moshoyannis The Holland Self-Directed Search: An Interest Inventory |
|
| Session 27: Atrium 6 Susan Simon, Doug Van Oort, Julie Wenzel and Carolyn Cleveland How Can We Use Assessment Techniques to Enhance the Learning of Pareducators? Or, How Do We Know if Our Students Are Learning? | |
| Session 28: Atrium 8 Joe Timmons Transition Needs of Older Youth With Disabilities |
|
| 4:45-6:00 | Peggy Hayden, Facilitator - Garden Court State Leadership Networking Session |
| 4:45-6:00 | Reception: New Ulm Chamber Orchestra - Garden Court |
Friday May 12th, 2006
| 7:00-4:30 | Registration - Ballroom Foyer |
| 7:30-8:30 | Continental Breakfast - Garden Court |
| 7:00-5:00 | Exhibits - Garden Court |
| Ballroom Center and East 8:30-8:45 |
Introductions and Welcome |
| 8:45-9:45 | Ballroom Center and East Keynote: Tina (Sue Edwards) and Lena (Annette Hustad)- Tina & Lena A 'Para' Funny Ladies |
| 9:45-10:30 | Break - Garden Court |
| 10:30-12:00 | Session 29: Veranda 1-4 Tish Olshefski and Lisa Thomas Meeting the Standards for Paraprofessionals: An American Federation of Teachers Study in Professional Development |
|
Session 30: Veranda 5-8 Steven Kaatz Remediating Non-Verbal Learning Disabilities |
|
| Session 31: Plaza 1 Kathy Sweezey Preparing Teachers to Work Effectively With Paraeducators | |
| Session 32: Edina Kjell Fenn Study Groups As a Professional Development Model for Paraprofessionals |
|
| Session 33: Atrium 1 Peggy Hayden and Ann Marie Dubuque The Effective Use of Teacher Assistants | |
| Session 34: Atrium 2 Sharon Johnson Paraprofessional Orientation: Need to Know |
|
| Session 35: Atrium 7 Nancy French Paraeducator Training: Making the Decisions and Finding the Materials That Meet Your District's Needs | |
| Session 36: Atrium 6 Bonnie Lotzer Nobody Told Me About This! (Repeat Session 66-Saturday) |
|
| Session 37: Atrium 4 Julie Neuberger and Beverly Plagge Load Your Toolbox: Behavioral Strategies for Everyone! | |
| Session 38: Atrium 8 Susie Branon and Lisa Oden Keys for the Future Paraprofessionals Becoming Teachers |
|
| 12:00-1:30 | Lunch (On Your Own) |
| 1:30-3:30 | Session 39: Veranda 1-4 Dale Asami, Judith Kappenberg, Lorelei Karasaki and Louise Pagotto Hawaii State Department of Education and Community Colleges: Partnerships in Paradise |
| Session 40: Veranda 5-8 Cookie Miranda and Carmela Wisniewski Communication and Team Building: Interactive and Problem Solving Skills for Partners in Learning |
|
| Session 41: Atrium 1 Teri Wallace Using Fluency Data to Inform Instructional Decisions: What's My Role? (Repeat Session 75 Saturday) | |
| Session 42: Edina Marla Beckman and Vicki Uecker Engaging Mathematical Activities for Struggling Elementary Students |
|
| Session 43: Bloomington Kit Giddings Classroom Assessment Made Easy: How to Identify, Record, and Monitor Student Progress and Still Teach (Repeat Session 69 Saturday) | |
| Session 44: Atrium 2 Carol Long and Suzanne Koprowski Portfolio Development for Paraeducators |
|
| Session 45: Atrium 4 Robert Morgan Building Better Behavior: A Program Describing Fundamental Behavior Strategies for Paraeducators (Repeat Session 13 Thursday) | |
| Session 46: Atrium 6 Donna Ramsey Let's Make Books |
|
| Session 47: Atrium 7 Jim Olson Creating a Sense of Peace Less Than a Peaceful World | |
| Session 48: Plaza 1 Bonnie Houck Strategies for Incorporating the National Reading Panels Five Components of Reading into the Classroom |
|
| 3:30-3:45 | Break - Garden Court |
| 3:45-5:15 | Session 49: Veranda 1-4 Katherine Anderson and Ann Goldade Have Questions? Get Answers! |
| Session 50: Veranda 5-8 Bob Braun and Dan Stores The Top Ten Things Everyone Should Know About Transition |
|
| Session 51: Atrium 7 Alice Brody Educational Pathways for New York City Paraprofessionals: A Collaborative Effort Between the New York State United Teachers, United Federation of Teachers and Empire State College, SUNY | |
|
Session 52: Edina Maury Devolder Let's Use Words Other Than -NO!- |
|
| Session 53: Atrium 1 Nancy French The Paraeducator Effectiveness Study: Exploring the Link Between Paraeducator Training and Student Achievement | |
| Session 54: Atrium 2 Sungti Hsu and Betty Ashbaker Direct Supervision: What Is It, What Do the Laws Say, and What Must Paraprofessional and Supervisors Do to Comply With the Law |
|
| Session 55: Plaza 1 Marge Meconis and Nan McDonald Changing a Staffing Model: Paraprofessionals in Team Classrooms | |
| Session 56: Atrium 6 Judy Skyllingstad Child Temperament: Traits, Tips and Tools for the Classroom |
|
| Session 57: Plaza 2 Ashleigh Molloy Proud to Be a Para Because I Make a Difference! | |
| Session 58: Atrium 8 Janet Hull The Paraprofessional Role in Fostering Student Independence |
Saturday, May 13th, 2006
| 7:00-8:00 | Registration - Ballroom Foyer Continental Breakfast - Garden Court |
| 8:30-8:50 | Ballroom Center and East Hmong Dancers |
| 8:50-9:00 | Ballroom Center and East Introductions and Welcome |
| 9:00-9:30 | Ballroom Center and East Sally Baas, Concordia University Presentation of Para of the Year and Team of the Year |
| 9:30-10:30 . | Ballroom Center and East Keynote Speaker: Jane Bluestein-21st Century Discipline: Building Responsibility, Cooperation and Self-Management |
| 10:30-10:45 | Break - Garden Court |
| 10:45-12:15 | Session 59: Atrium 6 Patty Schoff and Dawn Bendiske Self-Determination:-A Theory Based In Research: If You Take Their Life Jackets Away, Will They Sink or Swim? |
| Session 60: Atrium 1 Ginny Eggen Building Resiliency (Repeat Session 76 Saturday) |
|
| Session 61: Edina Teri Wallace and Barbara Jo Stahl Para eLink: Expanding Our Horizons | |
| Session 62: Bloomington Terre Hirst and Katia Milius Para University: Reading and Writing Strategies |
|
| Session 63: Plaza 1 Kelly Bredeken and Brian Kasper How Much is Too Much? | |
| Session 64: Atrium 8 Barbara Locker, Vanessa Hale and Sherry Hamilton Back to School: One Avenue to Becoming a Highly Qualified Paraeducator |
|
| Session 65: Atrium 2 Carol Long and Suzanne Koprowski A Field Guide for Paraeducators in Clinical Experiences: The First Year on the Job and Transfer Situations | |
| Session 66: Atrium 7 Bonnie Lotzer Nobody Told Me About This! (Repeat Session 36 Friday) |
|
| Session 67: Ballroom West Jane Bluestein My Brain Doesn't Work Like That: Accommodating Learning Differences | |
| Session 68: Plaza 2 Deanna Avis The Art of Synergy-Building Effective Teacher/Paraeducator Teams |
|
| 12:15-1:15pm | Lunch (On Your Own) |
| 1:15-2:45 | Session 69: Atrium 4 Kit Giddings Classroom Assessment Made Easy: How to Identify, Record, and Monitor Student Progress and Still Teach (Repeat Session 43 Friday) |
| Session 70: Edina Room Jo Ann Stolpa and Karen Malin Top Ten List for Emerging Readers | |
| Session 71: Atrium 6 Marilyn Likins Middle School/Jr. High Students - Love'em or Leave'em: Management Strategies That Work | |
| Session 72: Atrium 1 Barbara Jo Stahl Keeping the Main Thing the Main Thing: Increasing Student Independence | |
| Session 73: Atrium 8 Carol A. Long Strategies for Inclusive Instruction | |
| Session 74: Plaza 2 Deanna Avis The Art of Synergy - Building Effective Teacher/Paraeducator Teams (Repeat Session 68 - Saturday) | |
| Session 75: Atrium 2 Teri Wallace Using Fluency Data to Inform Instructional Decisions: What's My Role? (Repeat Session 41 Friday) | |
| Session 76: Plaza 1 Ginny Eggen Building Resiliency (Repeat Session 60 Saturday) | |
| Session 77: Veranda 1-4 Hattie Hollie Foundations of Instruction - The Paraeducator's Role | |
| Session 78: Mary Deluney and Nancy Rekucki Building Assets in School Communities |
2007 Conference
In 2007, the 26th National Conference on the Training and Employment of Paraprofessionals was held at the Hyatt Regency in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
You can review the conference schedule and even view some of the conference presentations in the links below:
2007 Conference Presentations
Enjoy the slides and notes from some of our 2006 conference presenters.A Peek into What Paraprofessionals Do in Inclusive Classrooms
From Ann Nevin, Florida International University and Ida Malian, Arizona State University
Classroom Assessment Made Easy
From Kit Giddings, Utah Personnel Development Center
Paraeducator Perspectives: Factors that Help or Hinder their Effectiveness
Ritu V. Chopra, from the The PAR²A Center
Paraprofessional’s Path to Bridging the Gaps in the Inclusive Classroom
Presenter: Dr. Ashleigh Molloy
Transformation Education Institute, York University
2007 Conference Schedule
Hyatt Regency Albuquerque
Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday
2008 Conference
The 2008 was held in Hartford, Connecticut- view the schedule and presentations from the conference below.
2008 National Conference Schedule
Hilton Hartford Hotel
Last Updated March 3, 2008
Download a printable schedule
Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday
2009 Conference
The 2009 was held in Salt Lake City, UT- view the schedule and presentations from the conference below.
2009 Conference Presentations
Enjoy the slides and notes from some of our 2009 conference presenters.
Avoiding the “Velcro Effect” Determining When a Student Requires Paraeducator Support
Presentation from Patricia H. Mueller, Ed.D.
Determining When a Student Requires Paraeducator Support Article (by Patricia H. Mueller and Francis V. Murphy)
CSI: Critical Support Interventions for Managing Difficult Behavior
Presentation from Kathy Chartier, Kathy Prewett, Jan Pace, Marie Wise & Taya Johnson
Educating the Whole Child for the 21st Century
Keynote presentation from Linda Mariotti.
How Paraprofessionals Can Neutralize Arguments with Love and Logic
Literacy Instruction for Students with Developmental Cognitive Disabilities (DCD) Edit Presentation
Presentation from Renáta Tichá
Making a Path: Creating Opportunities to Document and Share Promising Strategies or Practices Across One State
Making a Path: Creating Opportunities to Document and Share Promising Strategies or Practices Across One State by Mary Fisher & Mary Jo Dare.
Opportunities for Advancement in Special Education
Presentation from Joy Kutaka-Kennedy, Gertrude Gregorio & Nhung Tran
Paraeducator Professional Development: On-Line Style!
From Barbara Locker & Marjorie Sheffel
Paraeducators as Co-Teachers: A Fantasy or Reality?
Presentation from Ann Nevin & Jacqueline Thousand
Paraeducators in China
Presentation from Jessica Dai, Larissa Feng and Sophie Xie.
Paraeducators in Inclusive Settings Share Their WIZdom
Paraeducators in Inclusive Settings Share Their WIZdom—What Do They Do? How Do They Do It? What Do they Need to Do It Better? by Andrea Liston, Ida Malian, & Ann Nevin.
Paraprofessionals and the Paparazzi—You Think You Know But You Have No Idea!
Presentation from Ashleigh Molloy
Preparing Paraeducators to Assist Students with Autism
Preparing Paraeducators to Assist Students with Autism by Nancy French.
Preparing Tomorrow’s Leaders Today
Presentation from Consuelo Castillo Kickbusch & Ernesto Mejia
Supervising Paraprofessionals: Keys To Success
The Paraeducator Effectiveness Study: Supervision Models in Inclusive and Self-Contained Settings
The Power of Positive Relationships: Effective Behavior Management for Paras, by Paras
The Power of Positive Relationships: Effective Behavior Management for Paras, by Paras by Betsy Povtak and Ruth Musicante
2009 Conference Schedule
Hilton Salt Lake City Center
Last Updated January 31, 2009
Download a printable schedule
Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday
| Wednesday, April 29th, 2009 | ||
|---|---|---|
| 4:00-7:30 PM | Registration | |
| 4:30-7:30 PM | State Leadership Meeting (Salt Lake City Center Hilton) | |
| Thursday, April 30th, 2009 | ||
| 7:00 AM–5:00 PM | Registration | 7:15-8:15 AM | Continental Breakfast |
| 7:00 AM-9:00 PM | Exhibits | |
| 8:00–9:45 AM |
Introduction and Welcome: Ralph Becker, Mayor, Salt Lake City Keynote Speaker: Dr. Lorretta Johnson |
|
| 9:45-10:00 AM | Break | |
| 10:00-11:30 AM | Session 1: Pat Mueller Avoiding the “Velcro Effect:” Determining When a Student Requires a Paraeducator |
Session 2: Betty Ashbaker, Jose Enriquez, Kyle Reyes & Jill Morgan Seamless Transition from High School to University: Success for Hispanic Youth |
| Session 3: Ann Nevin & Jacqueline Thousand Paraeducators as Co-Teachers: A Fantasy or a Reality? |
Session 4: Barbara Locker & Marjorie Sheffel Paraeducator Professional Development: On-Line Style! |
|
| Session 5: Barbara Jo Stahl Supervising Paraprofessionals: Keys to Success |
Session 6: Ann Morrison Response to Intervention: Paraprofessionals Delivering Tier 2 Interventions to Urban At-Risk Kindergartners |
|
| Session 7: Kathy Muth, Rowena Maitland Ward & Cara McCarthy Preparing Teachers to Work Effectively with Paraeducators Integrating Paraeducators Into the Instructional Team |
Session 8: Elena Sandoval-Lucero Paraeducator Effectiveness Study – Supervision Models in Inclusive and Self-Contained Settings |
|
| 11:30 AM– 1:00 PM | LUNCH (On Your Own) | |
| Lunch Forum A: Topics in Research Related to Paraeducators HOSTS: Pat Mueller and Carol Long | ||
| 1:00-2:30 PM | Session 9: Joanie Garro The Effects of Adult Proximity on the Social Interaction of Children With and Without Disabilities |
Session 10: Anna Lou Pickett Establishing Policies & Systems That Strengthen Teacher & Paraeducator Teams |
| Session 11: Leonard Edmonds The Paraeducator/Teacher Team |
Session 12: Andrea Liston, Ida Malian, & Ann Nevin Paraeducators in Inclusive Settings Share Their WIZdom—What Do They Do? How Do They Do It? What Do they Need to Do It Better? |
|
| Session 13: Corrie Palmer Finding Your Fit: Determining Your Communication and Work Styles |
Session 14: Deb Armstrong Wag More Bark Less |
|
| Session 15: Ritu Chopra & Geri DiPalma State-wide Preparation of Paraprofessionals in Early Intervention Services: Recommended Practice & Challenges |
Session 16: Ginny Eggen Working for the Love of It! |
|
| 2:30-3:00 PM | Break | |
| 3:00-4:30 PM | Session 17: Carol Adams, Kathy Leeser & Peggy Mueller Paraeducator Professional Development: A Blueprint for Success |
Session 18: Julieta Beam Effective Strategies for ESL Students |
| Session 19: Cynthia Hutten-Eagle Activities to Facilitate School-to-Adult Life Transition |
Session 20: Becky Wuerth & Ann Conking Raising the Bar: Developing a Relevant Paraprofessional Training Program |
|
| Session 21: Malinda McKee Managing Anti-Social Behavior |
Session 22: Tamara Davidson What Every Paraeducator Should Know Before the Bell Rings! |
|
| Session 23: Kent Gerlach What Should Paraeducators Expect From Their Supervisors? |
Session 24: Joyce Mounsteven & Cathy Lonergan The Journey from Survival to Success: Training for EAs in Ontario, Canada to Improve Services for Students with Autism |
|
| Session 25: Donna Broyles Understanding the Roles and Responsibilities of the Supervising Teacher-Building Teams that Work |
Session 26 (Repeat Saturday): Kathy Chartier, Kathy Prewett, Jan Pace, Marie Wise & Taya Johnson CSI: Critical Support Interventions for Managing Difficult Behavior |
|
| Friday, May 1st, 2009 | ||
| 7:00 AM–4:30 PM | Registration | |
| 7:00-8:00 AM | Continental Breakfast | |
| 7:00 AM-5:00 PM | Exhibits | |
| 8:00-9:45 AM | Introductions and Welcome Keynote: Linda Mariotti Educating the Whole Child with 21st Century Skills |
|
| 9:45-10:00 AM | Break | |
| 10:00 AM-11:30 PM | Session 27: Paul Bates, Deborah Gray, Christie Wingo, & Kammie Mueller Behavior Techniques for Paraprofessionals in the Classroom |
Session 28: Ann Birch, Jill Morgan & Betty Ashbaker Pause for Thought: Enhancing Your Effectiveness Through Reflective Practice |
| Session 29: Kathleen Stacey Communication Strategies for Paraprofessionals in Inclusive Classrooms |
Session 30: Linda Alsop Paraeducators Working with Individuals Who Are Blind or Deafblind: Who are They and What Do They Do? |
|
| Session 31: Nancy French Preparing Paraeducators to Assist Students with Autism |
Session 32: Renata Ticha Literacy Instruction for Students with Developmental Cognitive Disabilities (DCD): Materials, Strategies and Decision Making |
|
| Session 33: Tish Olshefski Workplace Ethics |
Session 34: Danae Hendrix, Toni Collett, Sylvia Arce, Rachon Brooks & Laura Nieves Empowering Revolution Working With Students in Crisis |
|
| Session 35: Ellie Giles & Sally Murek Optimizing Paraprofessionals |
Session 36: Tim Riesen Employment Options for Transition-Aged Students with Moderate to Severe Disabilities |
|
| 11:30 AM– 1:00 PM | LUNCH (On Your Own) | |
| Lunch Forum B: Community Colleges HOSTS: Sue Simon and Joyce Evenski | Lunch Forum C: Topics for Administrators HOSTS: Barbara Jo Stahl and Suzan VanBeaver | |
| 1:00-2:30 PM | Session 37: Joseph Davis, Karen Bydlon & Melanie Wursta The Future of Special Education Paraeducator Training in Community Colleges |
Session 38: Ivory Mitchell Teacher & Paraeducator Partnerships: Creating a Classroom Team |
| Session 39: Caroline Dunn & Betty Ashbaker Training Paraprofessionals to be Effective Future Certified Teachers |
Session 40: Ashleigh Molloy Paraprofessionals and the Paparazzi—You Think You Know But You Have No Idea! |
|
| Session 41: Louise Ogden & Linda Smith Communicating Effectively and Emphatically with Parents |
Session 42: Suzan Tibbitts Bridging the Gap Between Mind and Flesh Regarding Body Modifications (Piercing & Tattos) |
|
| Session 43: Ben Anderson Going Beyond Everybody’s Else’s Expectations |
Session 44: Wendy Farone & Jennifer Goldbloom Pennsylvania Paraeducators: Going Above and Beyond |
|
| Session 45: Deborah Burnett, Bernadine Montoya, Rebecca Boyer & Peggy Fleetwood Instructional Strategies for Paraprofessional in the Classroom |
Session 46: Sharon Blatz Perspective and Agreement of the Paraprofessionals and Special Education Teacher on Role and Preparedness |
|
| 2:30-3:00 PM | Break | |
| 3:00-4:30 PM | Session 47: Consuelo Castillo Kickbusch & Ernesto Mejia Preparing Tomorrow’s Leaders Today |
Session 48: Michael Herbert Leveraging Language—Teaching Academic Vocabulary to Reluctant Learners |
| Session 49: Joy Kutaka-Kennedy, Gertrude Gregorio & Nhung Tran Career Pathways for Paraprofessionals |
Session 50: Roz Welch STRESS—and What to Do About It! |
|
| Session 51: Maren Dennis, Ashlee Villordo & Betty Ashbaker An Online System for Reducing Bullying, Improving Schools, and Connecting with Community |
Session 52: Mary Fisher & Mary Jo Dare Making a Path: Creating Opportunities to Document and Share Promising Strategies or Practices Across One State |
|
| Session 53: Ruth Musicante & Betsy Povtak The Power of Positive Relationships: Effective Behavior Management For Paras, By Paras |
Session 54: Kathy Muth , Maitland Ward & Cara McCarthy Communication and Team Building – Interactive Problem Solving Skills for Partners in Learning |
|
| Session 55: Jyl Warner, Debbi Beverly, Kathy Frost & Judy Estrada Paraprofessionals as Training Leaders |
Session 56: Ritu Chopra & Veronica Marquez Hepworth Systematic, Comprehensive and Sustainable Paraprofessional Training: Lessons Learned |
|
| 4:30-6:00 PM | Reception | |
| 5:00-9:00 PM | Special Event: This is the Place Heritage & Quilt Museum & Gardiner Village | |
| 6:30-7:30 PM | Welcome and Utah Outstanding Paraeducator Awards | |
| 7:30-8:30 PM | Keynote Speaker: Darol Wagstaff | |
| Saturday, May 2nd, 2009 | ||
| 7:00-8:00 AM | Registration Continental Breakfast |
|
| 8:00-8:30 AM | Introductions and Welcome: Teri Wallace and Marilyn Likins, Co-directors, NRCP Nan Gray, Director of Special Education |
|
| 8:30-8:45 AM | Break | |
| 8:45-10:15 AM | Session 57: Rebecca Case How Paraprofessionals Can Neutralize Arguments with Love and Logic |
Session 58: Margo Thurman Epilepsy—Seizures and Safety |
| Session 59: Wanda Newman Supporting Our Own: Paraeducators Mentoring Paraeducators |
Session 60: Greg Glidden, Craig Struble & Stefanie Carbone Digital Tools for Accessing the Curriculum: Tools You Can Use Tomorrow! |
|
| Session 61: Eunice Zee-Chen Be a Detective: In Search of the Impact of Sensory Processing on Behaviors in School |
Session 62: Jeri Rigby Small Group Instruction – Where the Action Is! |
|
| Session 63: Carol Long & Suzanne Kowproski Paraeducator Portfolios: Getting Your Ducks in a Row |
Session 64: Suraj Syal Navigating through the Perfect Storm |
|
| 10:30-11:30 AM | Keynote Speaker – Consuelo Castillo Kickbusch Living Our Legacy |
|
| 11:30-12:30 PM | Lunch | |
| 12:45-2:15 PM | Session 65: Cory Wofford & Carol Nelson Building Winning Teams within the School Community |
Session 66: Teri Wallace Introduction to Response-to-Intervention: Why Is This Important? |
| Session 67 Cathy Longstroth & Cindy Myers Active Student Engagement: Supports for Meaningful Participation |
Session 68 (Repeat from Session 26): Lisa Cohne Preschool Pioneer Library - Where kids go to click, learn and grow! |
|
| Session 69: Kathy Chartier, Jan Pace, Marie Wise & Taya Johnson CSI: Critical Support Interventions for Managing Difficult Behavior |
Session 70: Jill Morgan Aspergers and the Autistic Spectrum: Implications for Regular Education |
|
| Session 71: Noemi Olsen, Barbara Smith & Betty Ashbaker Research on a Reporting Bullying in Middle/Junior High Schools |
||
| 2:30-4:00 PM | Session 72: Kit Giddings & Deanna Avis Progress Monitoring in the Classroom: Easier Than You Think |
Session 73: Julie Mootz Fantastically Fun Fractions |
| Session 74: Glenn Dyke Self-Management Strategies in the Classroom: Managing the Tough Kid & the Tough Kid Within |
Session 75: Vickie Ahlstrom/span> Communication & Team Building: Worth the Time It Takes |
|
| 4:00-4:30 PM | Door Prizes | |
Past Conference Schedules
Call for Papers 2012 Conference
Paraeducator/ Teacher Teams: Two-Steppin' in the Right Direction!
30th National Conference on the Training and Employment of Paraeducators
March 1-March 3, 2012 in San Antonio Texas at the Hilton Placio del Rio
Submit your Proposal Online
Download the full Call for Papers flyer to print and share
Suggested Topics
This year we are especially interested in the following topics, but as always, we encourage proposals that expand horizons.
Research Initiatives focusing on paraeducator effectiveness, training and supervision, one-on-one use of paraeducators, or other pertinent topics.
Statewide or local initiatives to set standards and parameters for:
- Statewide assessment activities designed to meet requirements of federal legislation, i.e., No Child Left Behind and IDEA.
- Hierarchies of skill and knowledge competencies required to work in different levels of paraeducator positions.
- Paraeducator roles in RTI (Response to Intervention) programs
- Training and professional development opportunities for paraeducators.
- Development of effective partnerships among provider agencies, 2- and 4-year colleges, unions, and other stakeholders.
Hands on Sessions specifically designed to strengthen the on-the-job performance of paraeducators working in Title I programs, inclusive classrooms or one-on-one job assignments, home- and center-based early childhood programs, ALS/bilingual education, and vocational/transitional services.
Incentives for Retaining a Skilled Paraeducator Work Force (e.g. career pathways, credentialing flexible degree programs, collaborative articulated systems between provider agencies and 2- and 4-year colleges).
Standards and professionally developed models for preparing teachers and other supervisors to work effectively with paraeducators and direct service providers in education and other human services.
Emerging Roles for Paraeducators in occupational, speech/language, physical therapy and other disciplines.
NOTES
- Screens, carts and electrical switch plates will be provided in all rooms.
- NO LCD PROJECTORS WILL BE PROVIDED BY THE NRCP.
- Proposals that promote commercially available products, services, or programs will not be selected. Such products can be displayed in our Exhibitor /Vendor space. See exhibitor application.
- Because the conference is self-sustaining, it is necessary for ALL presenters to register and pay the fee.
Get Credit for Attendance
CERTIFICATE OF ATTENDANCE
A Certificate of Attendance will be available for hours attended. A total of 16 training hours will be available. Certificates will be disseminated following sessions on Saturday.
UTAH STATE UNIVERSITY CREDITS*
1 Credit Hour from Utah State University will be available for $40.00. Completion of a Credit Verification form will be required. This will involve a short synopsis of each session attended. Full conference attendance will be required for the credit.
ACT 48 HOURS (For Pennsylvania Attendees)*
Conference attendees who hold a valid PA teaching certificate can register on-site to earn Act 48 hours. Act 48 hours will be awarded for 1, 2, or 3 days in any combination, 5 hours per day. Participants must attend the entire day to earn 48 hours. To ensure your Act 48 hours are reported correctly to PDE, please have your seven-digit Professional Personnel Identification (PPID) number with you when you arrive at the conference.
*Please note: Check in at the Conference Registration Table for ACT Hours and USU Credit Verification forms.
Sponsorship Opportunities at the Conference
Platinum (up to 2)
-Full page ad in conference program
-Logo with link on conference website main page
-Free Exhibitor Booth
-Mention in the Opening Keynote
-Mention in a NRCP Newsletter
-2 free conference passes
-Handout in attendee registration bag
Price: $3000
Gold (up to 6)
-1/2 page ad in the conference program
-Logo with link on conference website sponsor page
-Mention in an NRCP Newsletter
-1 free conference pass
-Handout in attendee registration bag
Price: $1500
Silver (up to 8)
-1/4 page ad in the conference program
-Logo with link on conference website sponsor page
-Handout in attendee registration bag
-Price: $500
Bronze - (up to 8)
-1/8 page ad in the conference program
-Logo with link on conference website sponsor page
-Price: $100
Please contact Connie Beck at NRCP to be a sponsor or for more information at 435-797-7272 or connie@nrcpara.org.
Top Ten Things To Do in San Antonio
1. The San Antonio River Walk
The San Antonio River Walk is a public park open 365 days a year, lined with individual businesses composed of restaurants, hotels, attractions and more. Our conference hotel is right on the River Walk. Music, restaurants and shops galore are just a few steps away for NRC conference participants!
www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com
2. Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! allows you to discover one-of-a-kind oddities, curiosities and illusions gathered from all over the world by Robert Ripley. There are over 500 unique, one-of-a-kind exhibits—one of the largest collections in the world!
http://www.ripleys.com/sanantonio/
3. San Antonio River Tours
Take a breathtaking tour with entertaining narratives of the rich history of the San Antonio River and helpful information to assist you during your visit to Texas.
4. The Alamo
Originally named Mission San Antonio de Valero, the Alamo served as home to missionaries and their Indian converts for nearly seventy years. Construction began on the present site in 1724. In 1793, Spanish officials secularized San Antonio's five missions and distributed their lands to remaining Indian residents. These men and women continued to farm the fields, once the mission's but now their own, and participated in the growing community of San Antonio.
http://www.thealamo.org/main/index.php
5. Q on the Riverwalk
Chefs from the Q have spent quite a bit of time searching out the globe's best BBQ and brought their recipes back. Now you can discover on your own the amazing variety of tastes that the wide world of barbeque has to offer, without having to bother with passports, language and currency differences, etc. So welcome to Q:the pursuit of the ultimate barbeque. They’ve done all the hard work. You just need to sit back and enjoy. Let the journey begin.
http://www.hyatt.com/gallery/qriverwalk/
6. Arneson River Theatre
This historic theatre is the perfect outdoor venue to watch a dance or musical performance.
This theatre is on one side of the San Antonio River, its audience is on the other. Performances at this unique theatre feature everything from mariachis to country-western.
7. The Alamo Imax Theatre
Home of the legendary Alamo: The Price of Freedom. The crystal clear images and wrap-around sound of IMAX thrills in a way no ordinary theatre can. Six stories high & 83 feet wide, the screen pulls you in! Experience the legend of the Alamo at IMAX prior to visiting the Alamo shrine- see Alamo: The Price of Freedom on the giant screen.
The theatre complex also boasts an IMAX 3D screen playing the latest hits.
8. Hemisfair Park
Built to host the 1968 World's Fair, the parks lushly landscaped areas and dramatic, cascading waterfalls offer a refreshing retreat from city streets. The park houses several historic buildings, a playground, the Institute of Texan Cultures and the Instituto Cultural Mexicano. But one of the park's biggest (literally) highlights is the 750-foot tall Tower of the Americas which offers breathtaking views of San Antonio, fine dining and 4-D ride.
http://www.ci.sat.tx.us/hemisfairpark/
9. Tower of the Americas
Located in downtown San Antonio, the 750-foot-tall Tower of the Americas provides guests the most spectacular view of the Alamo City. Enjoy the gorgeous panorama from the Tower's revolving Chart House Restaurant, take in the scenery from the Observation Deck or experience the thrilling 4D Theater Ride.
http://www.toweroftheamericas.com/
10. Market Square
The rich culture of San Antonio abounds throughout the plazas of Market Square. A three-block outdoor plaza lined with restaurants, shops and produce stands near San Antonio's city center, Market Square is the largest Mexican market in the U.S. It is one of America's top -ten outdoor markets according to Frommer's. Dozens of shops sell everything from hand-embroidered dresses to leather belts. Market Square's working artists, musicians, dancers and major cultural events give it a rich and lively cultural atmosphere. Visitors browse through 32 shops at "El Mercado," and 80 specialty shops in the Farmers Market Plaza. Market Square is also the scene of many Hispanic festivals where food and beverage booths spring up alongside Guadalajara lamps while the sounds of mariachi music blends with the excitement of Mexican dances
http://www.sanantonio.gov/marketsquare/
