Michigan’s special education paraeducators work alongside teachers to assist individuals (Birth to 26 Years) with various disabilities.
Paraeducators Bring Support to Classrooms
Paraeducators work to address individuals with physical, emotional, intellectual, and communication needs in school classrooms. They ensure individuals receive the accommodations they need to overcome obstacles in their education. They modify or adapt instruction, work with individuals or small groups, and provide one-on-one assistance to reinforce learning and foster the individual’s independence. This level of personalized support is crucial for individuals who require additional help to succeed academically and socially.
Michigan Paraeducators:
- Provide individualized instruction and customized lessons.
- Assist with behavior management and implementing behavior intervention plans.
- Support individuals during transitions between activities and environments.
- Aid in personal care tasks and ensuring physical well-being.
- Maintain a clean, safe, and cooperative learning environment.
“There’s just so many different aspects to this job that it never gets boring,” said Ann Koch, Bath High School paraeducator.
The Backbone of Special Education
Paraeducators don’t just confine their efforts to the classroom. They also guide independent study, assist with self-care tasks, and help maintain records.
“These individuals need you, especially with all the stresses that are going on nowadays in people’s lives, you have the chance to make a difference,” said Koch.
“I’m a different person working with individuals with special needs. Seeing how they adapt, seeing improvements and great gains, has been more changing to me. They’ve changed me more than I’ve changed them,” said Debra Snyder, paraeducator in Clinton County.
About OPTIMISE
OPTIMISE attracts, prepares, and retains diverse and qualified personnel to help advance individuals with disabilities (Birth to 26 years).
The OPTIMISE Task Force, Core Team, and Action Teams work with many partners, including Michigan’s leading education organizations and legislature, to reduce barriers and align licensing for special educators. This work also includes working with all levels of education to accomplish this goal.
OPTIMISE promotes ten professions within Michigan’s special education field, their funding options, and steps to jumpstart a career in special education.
Join a great group of dedicated people who help individuals with disabilities excel.
Go to: OPTIMISE.education
