Janet Velez

Presented by Janet: Paraprofessional: Train the Trainer

Position/Title: Paraprofessional Representative Coordinator

Name of School: P.S./M.S. 206 Jose Celso Barbosa

DBN: 04M206 Superintendent: Alexander Estrella

Personal Statement: I was born and raised here in the East Harlem District community. I have an associate degree of science in Human Service Child Development and a bachelor of science degree in Behavioral Sciences from Mercy College. My goal is to obtain my master’s degree someday.

I’ve spent over 25 years working with children with special needs. As a parent, volunteer and community activist, I’ve dedicated myself to helping others.

I am very excited about the District #4 Train the Trainer Paraprofessional Facilitator Program. It is a unique opportunity, which no other school district is doing at this time. I am turn-keying information though Power Points and group discussion. I am working collectively with the staff as a whole to share strategies that help support the development of our students.

As Paraprofessionals, we are learning to be more assertive in our educational approach, while building stronger relationships with the students we work with.

Ages/Grades of students: 3^rd-8^th

Number of Years in school: 5

Years in education: 26