Paraeducators Strand


For Paraeducators Only: Teaching Students with Autism-An Overview
Presenter: Rebecca Steinberger

Intended Audience: Paraeducators Preschool- 8th Grade
Instructional Time: 3 hours

Paraeducators are often responsible for providing support to students with Autism. In this workshop,
participants will:

  • Understand how the diagnosis of Autism influences the student's learning and behavior.
  • Leave with an understanding of specific strategies that can be effective for students
    with Autism.

NOTE: This training will not address Asperger's Disorder or secondary age students.

For Paraeducators Only: Providing Support for Special Education
Students in General Education Classrooms
Presenter: Diann Grimm

Intended Audience: Paraeducators
Instructional Time: 6 hours

The role of the paraeducator sometimes involves "shadowing" students with special needs in general education classrooms.
Paraeducators are frequently asked to assist with student learning and support appropriate student behavior. In this workshop,
participants will learn to:

  • Increase student understanding of directions and instructions in class
  • Monitor student attention, on-task behavior and task completion
  • Promote student independence

NOTE: This training is appropriate for paraeducators who spend time in general education classrooms
supporting students with special needs.

Understanding Special Education: What Paraeducators Need to Know
Presenter: Cathy Thoni

Intended Audience: Paraeducators
Instructional Time: 3 hours


Paraeducators are critical members of the teaching team. It is important that paraeducators understand
the important role they play when serving special education students. Participants attending this
workshop will:

  • Develop a deeper understanding of Special Education & General Education mandates
  • Be introduced to the unique characteristics of the 13 federal handicapping conditions
  • Learn interventions and strategies that promote student success