Professionalism
Whose direction must you follow in the classroom to maintain consistent routines?
Teacher
No! Every student is unique with their own strengths and weaknesses. It's important to support students based on their individual needs.
What should a paraeducator regulate first during a conflict?
Their own emotions, tone, body language, and expectations.
What do you call a support staff person who is engaging, supportive, dedicated, fun and dependable?
a Samuel Everitt Paraeducator!!!
True or False
Self-care is only something you can do outside the workday
False!
There are self-care activities that can happen during the workday that allows you to be your best self for students and prevents burnout.
Name two words that begin with the letter P to describe the language you should be using throughout your workday.
Professional and Positive
Not Personal
Name two things that cause Sensory Overload
Loud/unpredictable noise
Bright or Flickering Lights
Strong smells
Physical contact
True or False:
Conflict always means someone did something wrong
False. Conflict often signals unmet needs, stress, or miscommunication.
Name three ways we can actively engage with students throughout the school day.
ask them questions tell an appropriate joke
play games/cards make a connection
start a conversation about a shared topic
encourage physical movement and TALK
read together
A para has been supporting a student who is escalating—arguing, refusing work, and raising their voice. The para is becoming overwhelmed and needs support. What should they do?
Talk to teacher or another para in private or quietly - I’m feeling overwhelmed and need to step away for a minute. Can you Switch with me? or IF THE SETTING ALLOWS "I need to step out for a few minutes”
Para should come back in 2-3 minutes
What should a para do if they disagree with a teacher's approach?
Discuss concerns privately with the teacher or supervisor. Never challenge or undermine the teacher in front of students.
What do you need from students before any learning can take place?
Cooperation
What is the main goal of conflict resolution with our students.
To restore safety, connection, and understanding—not to punish or “win.”
Name three topics of conversation that are NOT appropriate and professional to have with students.
personal adult stories political
religious sexual drug use
some weekend plans anything criminal
negative family dynamics news stories
profanity
Name three realistic self-care strategies
Getting enough rest
Taking scheduled breaks
Setting emotional boundaries
Talking with trusted coworkers
Schedule ME time
Name two things necessary for paras to maintain professionalism in special education
Acting with respect, confidentiality, reliability, and integrity
Student with autism does not respond when asked a question. What could be the reason?
Processing delay, sensory overload, or focus—not defiance.
Give three supportive responses to students who are frustrated
Why are you frustrated? (ask questions)
I know how you're feeling... (empathy)
I would be frustrated too... (sympathy)
What can I do for you? (supportive)
Let's do something fun like... (redirection)
Give three examples of an appropriate response to a student who is asking or starting an inappropriate conversation.
Is that appropriate/inappropriate? (ask a question)
We're not talking about that. (redirect)
I didn't just hear that. Try again... (humor)
You should talk to ____ about that. (supportive)
Absolutely not!!! (stern)
What are two behavioral clues that signal your coworker needs a break
Raising their voice or speaking more sharply
Reacting instead of responding
Irritability
Why is professionalism especially important in special education?
Students and families trust paras with sensitive information and vulnerable moments; professionalism ensures safety, dignity, and effective support.
What are 5 communication differences (verbal or non-verbal) that are often seen with students with autism?
Verbal - limited speech, echolalia, literal language (don't understand sarcasm), struggles with starting or maintaining conversations, using an AAC device
Non-verbal - lack of eye contact, gestures, pointing, difficulty interpreting facial expressions or tone
A student pushes materials away after a direction is given. What is the best first response?
Pause, reduce language, stay calm, and assess what the student needs.
Name three reasons why we should never share our food or phones with students.
escalate behaviors with other students-jealousy
escalate if they want more-demanding
it's unfair student allergies
could see something inappropriate
could break your phone
You're having a rough day and make a mistake by reacting strongly (rather than responding) to a student...what do you do?
Repair—model accountability by apologizing and resetting.