What is paraprofessional education?
Paraprofessional education is a teaching-related profession. Paraprofessionals act as teaching assistants in the classroom to assist teachers at the elementary and secondary education levels. Paraprofessionals may also be known as para-pros, instructional assistants and classroom assistants.FunctionMany times paraprofessionals are used by a teacher to focus on specific learning objectives inside the classroom. Paraprofessionals may also substitute for a teacher in case of a teacher absence.TypesThe job description for paraprofessionals varies. Some can step in for a teacher and be the main classroom instructor, while others are limited to education support or even technical support.QualificationsRequirements to become a paraprofessional also vary. In some jurisdictions all that is required is a high school diploma, but other paraprofessional roles require at least a two-year college degree.