Paraprofessionals, the classroom aides who work alongside teachers, play a big part in making learning accessible for deaf and hard of hearing students. Use this tip sheet as a quick reference to seven areas of effective paraprofessional practice, including modeling ASL and English, supporting instruction, ensuring student access and participation, taking initiative, keeping clear professional roles, collaborating with the team, and contributing to school culture. Use it to reflect on your own role and spot opportunities to grow.
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A self-check paraprofessionals use to reflect on their daily work across seven areas of effective practice and identify their own strengths and growth areas.
A reflective guide leaders use to assess paraprofessional practice, guide coaching, and move support from task-based help to intentional, student-centered practice.
A checklist leaders use to monitor whether the systems, coaching, and expectations that make paraprofessionals effective are consistently in place across seven key areas.