Para Handbook

This comment has been moved here.

Do a search for paraprofessional handbook. You will find examples of them from real schools. A good one I found is from the following website:

http://sped.lausd.net/sepg2s/pdf/guides/paraprohandbook0607.pdf

It is 38 pages long!

I haven't read the whole thing but I would find some good valuable information about how aides and teachers can work together better. I'm currently developing a powerpoint on that. I can email if you are interested. It is still a work in progress (for next year) and I am still adding ideas and trying to trim it because it is too wordy and long. Ha! That is an issue in our school. Teachers and Aides aren't really aware of exactly what they can and can't do and are too literal and not flexible enough. With everyone having different ideas and expectations and not including enough communication (certain types of communication are needed and suggested), then it leads to mixed feelings and resentment instead of partnership. So I would definately include some research on that. There are examples of that as well.

I am very interested in becoming a parapro. Are there any websites that offer pre-testing or training for the test.

Thanks
Donna

Our local paraprofessional Association developed a handbook this year for new paras entering our district. We include pertinent district policies, such as discipline, contract information, Association officers, and phone #s, a section with useful tips for supervision duties, another w/ general tips for working in classrooms. We also used New Member information from our State organization, Mich. Ed. Assoc. They issue a monthy New Member newsletter with many different topics. The district agreed to have us present a three hour inservice to all new paras, called The Role of the Paraprofessional. We are able to answer questions, give both district and union information and offer practical suggestions to members. We used the handbook as an outline for the presentation. It seemed to be well received.

Thanks, Ninabo, for your reply! Our hope is to develop a handbook and then implement an orientation and/or mentor system. But we know we must approach our administrators one step at a time! Jeanne

Nin------ What state are you in? Michgian, because if you are, I need to talk to you. e-mail address is lindariviello@yahoo.com