An essential duty of most paraprofessionals is student supervision. An inclusive classroom is comprised of general education and special education students. Paraprofessionals are typically placed in inclusive classrooms to provide the general education teacher with additional support. In most cases, the teacher will teach the lesson while the paraprofessional supervises the room and assists as needed. Supervision may also include activities beyond the classroom, such as lunch time, assemblies or transitions between classes.
Paraprofessionals are often responsible for providing instruction. This is generally with small groups or individuals, but depends upon the need of the students. The teacher is responsible for designing and monitoring the instruction, but many paraprofessionals teach lessons on a daily basis. It is important that the teacher and paraprofessional effectively communicate and collaborate to meet the needs of students. The content of the lesson will vary depending on the classroom and students, but is often driven by the student's Individual Education Plan, or IEP. The IEP is a document containing annual goals based on student need. Paraprofessionals are often placed in inclusive classrooms to help students meet their IEP goals.
Along with providing support and instruction, paraprofessionals are often responsible for collecting data toward student IEP goals. The teacher will organize and supervise the data collection system, but the paraprofessional will often be the one to actually collect the data in the classroom setting. The method of data collection will depend on the type of information being measured. If a special education student is working on appropriate classroom participation for example, the paraprofessional may be asked to make a tally mark each time the student raises his hand and questions or comments appropriately.
The information in a student's IEP is considered confidential and should only be accessible to educators providing service or care to the student. It is important for paraprofessionals to be aware of student needs and goals, so they can provide appropriate interventions and instruction. Paraprofessionals should discuss student information only with people directly involved with the student, such as the teacher or other members of the IEP team. Paraprofessionals should not discuss student information with other students, parents, or educators not directly involved with the student.