Classes in the curriculum provide knowledge and experiences required of the paraprofessional
educator.
Paraprofessionals, also called teacher aides, provide classroom and clerical assistance to elementary and
secondary teachers. Paraprofessionals supervise students in the classroom, cafeteria, schoolyard, or on
field trips. Job duties vary. Some paraprofessionals just handle routine non-teaching and clerical tasks.
They grade tests and papers, check homework, keep health and attendance records, type, file, and duplicate
materials. They may also operate audiovisual equipment and keep classroom equipment in order. Other
paraprofessionals instruct children, under the direction and guidance of teachers. They listen while
students read, review class work, or help them find information for reports. Many paraprofessionals have a
combination of instructional and clerical duties.