Analysis of state standards for paraprofessionals - Statistical Data Included

Journal of Instructional Psychology, Dec, 2001 by Elizabeth W. Beale

The role of paraeducators has expanded significantly over the last several years. Paraeducators are frequently given responsibilities for which they are not adequately trained. Credentialing would guarantee the level of quality services provided by paraeducators and give recognition to the importance of the role of paraeducators in the instructional process.

Figure 1. Paraeducator Occupation Report Comparison

                      Employment           Employment

                   1998        % *      2008        % *

Total
Employment,
All industries     1,191,790   100.00   1,566,888   100.00

Education,
Public & private   1,025,578   86.05    1,371,613   87.53

Bureau of Labor Statistics
Modified 11/30/99

                   Change Industry

                   1998-2008   % *

Total
Employment,
All industries     375,098     31.5

Education,
Public & private   346,035     33.7

Bureau of Labor Statistics
Modified 11/30/99

* percent distribution

References

American Federation of Teachers. (2000). Status of State paraprofessional certification [Online]. Available: http://www.aft.org/psrp/ Status.html

Cook-Robinson, W. (2000). Paraeducator Education Program. Oakland Schools, 2100 Pontiac Lake Rd, Waterford MI 48328, Phone (248) 209-2047.

California Code, Education Code, Sec. 22930-44930, (2000). [On-line]. Available: http:/ /www.leginfocagov/index.html

French, N.K. & Pickett, A.L. (1997). Paraprofessionals in special education: Issues for teacher educators. Teacher Education and Special Education, 20 (1), 61-73.

Georgia Code Department of Education (2001). Exceptional students; Rules of the State Board of Education pertaining to special education [on-line]. Available www.doe.k12.ga.us/ sla/exceptional/rules.html

Giangreco, M.F., Edelman, S.W., Luiselli, T.E., & MacFarland, S.Z.C. (1997). Helping or hovering: Effects of instructional assistant proximity on students with disabilities. Exceptional Children, 64 (1), 7-18.

Hill, C. (1999). Paras find power in Pickett. NEA Today, 18 (3) 25-26.

Hilton, A & Gerlach, K (1997, June). Employment preparation and management of paraeducators: Challenges to appropriate service for students with developmental disabilities. Education and Training in Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities, 71-76.

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act Amendments of 1997, (1999, March). Rules and Regulations. Federal Register, 64(48) [20 U.C. Sec.1412(a)(15)(B)(ii)); 20 U.S.C. Sec. 1435(a)(8)].

LeTendre, M.J. (1999). Paraprofessionals: A resource for tomorrow's teachers. U.S. Department of Education [On-line] Available: http:/ /www.ed.gov/offices/OESE/CEP/parfinl.html

National Center for Education Statistics (1999) [On-line]. Available: http://nces.ed.gov/ pubs2000/Digest99/d99t083.html

National Industry Occupational Employment (1999) [On-line]. Available: http:// stats.bls.gov/asp/oep/nioem/empiohm.asp

Minimum Requirements for the Licensure of Professional/Paraprofessional Personnel and Advanced Salary Classifications, West Virginia. Policy 5202, Title: 126-136-1.general. (2000, Feb.).

 

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