Help! I'm not sure 

how to help! 

Sometimes circumstances keep us from being able to communicate or be prepared the way we'd like to.  In an ideal world, we would walk in to any classroom and already know what to do.  There would be neatly laid out plans with detailed expectations waiting for us.  But this is not always possible nor realistic. 

As professional paraeducators, we are expected to be proactive, flexible, and sometimes innovative. 

We should always be able, ready, and willing to support students, classrooms, and staff on campus.  

So what do you do when you don't know what to do ...and the classroom teacher is already in the middle of teaching? 

When you first walk into a classroom, take note of what is going on and interactions between the teacher, students, and other staff.  Put your belongings to the side and ensure you have your hands free.  Briefly look to see if the teacher has a place where paras check-in or could gather information for the day.

Check the schedule - know the subject being taught and student's learning objective.  These things can usually be located on/around the front board.  Identify what kind of work the students will be doing (whole class, small group, independent) and any upcoming transitions (to recess, music, end of class period, etc.).

Most importantly, be mobile around the classroom.  Increase proximity to students who are off task, redirect undesired behaviors, encourage students to participate in instruction, and check-in on student needs.  You might offer reteaching to students or assist the teacher in passing out or organizing materials. 

Seek an opportunity to check-in with the teacher.  If the teacher is not able to step aside, seek information from other classroom staff.  Ask how you might be able to support them and the students, if they need anything prepared, or if there are behavior plans to be aware of.  This should NOT interrupt instruction. 

Some things you would NOT do might include:

At a Glance Slides Deck