What does a Substitute Paraprofessional do?

Paraprofessionals play an important role in ensuring that classrooms run smoothly and all students master concepts covered by the curriculum. Those who work in Substitute Paraprofessional careers are usually in many different classrooms throughout the year, stepping into the shoes of permanent assistants who are using PTO or on leave. Because the daily tasks of assistants vary greatly, Substitute Paraprofessional job duties may differ with each placement. When they perform their assigned duties proficiently, Substitute Paraprofessionals contribute to the quality of education that schools provide. They can also create a safer, more positive learning environment for students who speak English as a second language or have physical and mental disabilities.

Substitute Paraprofessional skills and qualifications

People who succeed in Substitute Paraprofessional careers typically possess certain qualifications. As you screen candidates for open positions, you may wish to prioritize those with the following skills:

• Interpersonal skills to interact positively with staff and students

• Oral communication skills to provide instruction to students and discuss lesson plans and tasks with teachers

• Written communication skills to compile reports

• Organizational skills to manage student papers and projects and maintain neat classrooms

• Knowledge of best practices for instruction

• Ability to remain upright for long periods and move objects that may weigh 25 pounds or more

• Basic understanding of child development and psychology

• Ability to administer CPR and first aid as needed

Substitute Paraprofessional experience requirements

Many employers will hire Substitute Paraprofessionals with no previous experience, provided they meet education and training requirements. However, you may prefer candidates with at least 1 year of experience if the teachers at your school have less experience or the position requires intensive one-on-one instruction. Schools with a large population of special needs or English as a second language students may wish to hire candidates who have previously worked with children or teens who have similar needs.

Substitute Paraprofessional education and training requirements

Generally, people need an associate degree in education to enter Substitute Paraprofessional careers. These programs typically last for 2 years and involve a field placement that allows prospective Substitute Paraprofessionals to work in real classrooms. In most states, Substitute Paraprofessionals don’t need a teacher certification because they’re closely supervised by certified teachers. However, some states do require Paraprofessionals to pass a skills or knowledge test to work with special needs students. States may also have voluntary certification programs that Paraprofessionals may pursue if they wish. Requirements for certification vary but generally include passing an examination and completing a minimum number of hours of training.

Job description samples for similar positions

If the Substitute Paraprofessional job duties outlined above don’t fully match your needs, one of the following alternatives job descriptions may be a better fit:

• Assistant Teacher

• Paraprofessional

• Substitute Teacher

• Teacher

Substitute Paraprofessional job description FAQs

Who do Substitute Paraprofessionals work for and do their job duties vary based on employer type?

Some Substitute Paraprofessionals work directly for school districts. These individuals are more likely to have similar duties in every classroom and to be involved in collecting data about student behaviors and performance. Staffing agencies also employ Substitute Paraprofessionals. Their employees may work for numerous school districts and/or private schools and may need to learn many sets of rules and policies as a result. Substitute Paraprofessionals may also be self-employed and work as independent contractors. Like professionals from staffing agencies, they often work for many districts and schools.

Should our district hire full-time Substitute Paraprofessionals?

To determine whether to hire Substitute Paraprofessionals, you’ll need to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of having these professionals as employees. When substitutes are employees, you can establish your own set of qualifications and look for candidates who seem capable of performing the specific duties you require. Having Substitute Paraprofessionals positions also ensures that everyone who works in your classrooms is familiar with your school or district’s policies, rules and preferred practices. One of the biggest downsides is that you’ll need to source, vet and interview candidates internally. In addition, you’ll need to pay unemployment, disability and worker’s compensation taxes and provide benefits.

What makes a good Substitute Paraprofessional?

Flexibility and the ability to adapt to change are crucial for success in Substitute Paraprofessional careers. Patience allows professionals to interact positively with students who demonstrate challenging behaviors, while attentiveness to detail is beneficial when following lesson plans and grading papers. Above all, Substitute Paraprofessionals should enjoy working with children and/or adolescents.