Would it help to be a paraprof before becoming a teacher?

Marilyn Likins, the NRCP Co-Director, received an inquiry via email. The text of the inquiry and Marilyn's response follows. Question: "I think I may be interested in becoming a teacher. I thought that it might be beneficial to me to first become a teacher's assistant. If I worked first as an assistant to a teacher then I would be able to check out that field and really decide what I want to do. Please send me any information on becoming a teacher's assistant and/or teacher that you feel would be of help to me." Marilyn's response: "In many states, individuals are becoming paraeducators prior to pursuing a teaching career. Typically, as a paraeducator working in a classroom, you provide instruction and classroom management support but are not responsible for the development of lesson materials and required paperwork. With the appropriate training and supervision, it can be a rewarding yet challenging job. "The Council for Exceptional Children has a Web site that provides in-depth information about both careers. Just go to the following Web site www.specialedcareers.org . Once there type in paraeducator in the SEARCH box. It will give you a number of options. Click on the first option under the "National Clearinghouse for Professions in Special Education - Career Choices in Special Education - Paraeducators". "There is also an excellent description of what the role of a special education teacher is and what it takes in terms of preparation and training. "Good luck with your endeavors."