In this professional development session, participants will gain valuable insights from experienced paraprofessionals who will share real-world strategies, challenges, and successes from their time supporting students and classrooms. The session includes a collaborative round table Q&A, offering a space for open dialogue, practical problem-solving, and peer support.
This training will provide a comprehensive overview of autism spectrum disorder, with a focus on how broad and varied the spectrum can be. Participants will learn to recognize the unique strengths and challenges of students with autism, including common differences in social communication, flexibility, behavior, and sensory processing. Through real-world examples and practical strategies, paras will gain insight into supporting early learners with autism in ways that promote engagement, inclusion, and growth. This session is ideal for those looking to deepen their understanding and better support the diverse needs of young children on the spectrum.
Strong relationships are the foundation of a supportive and successful learning environment. This session focuses on how paraprofessionals can build meaningful, respectful, and professional relationships with students, teachers, and team members. Participants will explore strategies for building trust, promoting student engagement, and maintaining clear communication within the school community. Special attention will be given to understanding boundaries, cultural responsiveness, and the impact of consistent, caring adult connections on student behavior and achievement. Whether working one-on-one or in a classroom setting, paraprofessionals will leave this session with practical tools to strengthen relationships and foster a positive school climate.
When students experience emotional or behavioral distress, paraprofessionals play a key role in ensuring safety, de-escalation, and support. This session focuses on CPI (Crisis Prevention Intervention) core principles, emphasizing proactive strategies and safe, non-harmful responses to student crisis situations. Participants will learn how to recognize early signs of escalation, use verbal and non-verbal techniques to reduce tension, and understand their role in crisis response and post-incident support. Emphasis will be placed on maintaining student dignity, ensuring safety, and working as part of the school team to prevent future incidents. This training empowers paraprofessionals with the confidence and tools to respond calmly, consistently.
Behavior is a form of communication—and paraprofessionals are often on the front lines of interpreting and responding to it. This session equips paraprofessionals with foundational knowledge of the functions of behavior—attention, escape, access to tangibles, and sensory—and how to recognize what a student might be trying to communicate through their actions. Participants will learn practical, easy-to-use strategies to support positive behavior, prevent escalation, and reinforce appropriate alternatives, all while staying aligned with the classroom teacher’s behavior plan. Real-world scenarios and discussion will help paraprofessionals feel confident in their role as key partners in behavior support, intervention implementation, and promoting a safe, supportive learning environment.
This session will focus on how to effectively support students across academic areas while encouraging independence and critical thinking. Participants will learn strategies for prompting, guiding, and scaffolding instruction without giving answers or completing tasks for students. We’ll explore techniques for supporting reading comprehension, math problem-solving, and classroom assignments in a way that builds student confidence and capability. This training is ideal for paras who want to strike the right balance between helping and empowering, ensuring students stay engaged and take ownership of their learning.
This session will focus on practical, hands-on strategies for helping students build essential life skills such as communication, self-care, social interaction, and decision-making. Paraprofessionals will learn how to effectively support students in both structured and unstructured environments, promote independence, and reinforce skill development throughout the school day. Whether you're new to the role or looking to deepen your impact, this session will provide valuable tools and insights to help you make a lasting difference in students' everyday lives.
This session introduces paraprofessionals to the Science of Reading and Writing, focusing on how students learn to read and write using evidence-based practices. Participants will explore key literacy components—like phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension—and learn how writing supports reading development. Practical strategies and hands-on examples will equip paraprofessionals to confidently support students during literacy instruction and collaborate effectively with teachers.
Many students experience challenges with sensory processing that can impact their ability to focus, learn, and regulate emotions throughout the school day. This session introduces paraprofessionals to the basics of sensory integration—how the brain processes information from the senses—and how sensory needs can show up in student behavior. Participants will learn to recognize signs of sensory seeking and avoidance, understand the purpose of sensory supports and tools, and implement simple, classroom-friendly strategies to help students stay calm, alert, and ready to learn. Through real-life examples and collaborative discussion, paraprofessionals will gain confidence in supporting sensory regulation in partnership with teachers and therapists.
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) is at the heart of helping students build self-awareness, manage emotions, and develop healthy relationships. In this session, paraprofessionals will explore their vital role in supporting students’ social-emotional growth throughout the school day. Participants will learn practical, age-appropriate strategies to help students with self-regulation, conflict resolution, emotional check-ins, and positive communication. The session will also cover how to model SEL skills, reinforce classroom expectations, and provide consistent support aligned with schoolwide SEL practices. Whether in a general education or special education setting, paraprofessionals will leave equipped to foster a caring, respectful, and emotionally safe environment where all students can thrive.
This training will provide a comprehensive overview of autism spectrum disorder, with a focus on how broad and varied the spectrum can be. Participants will learn to recognize the unique strengths and challenges of students with autism, including common differences in social communication, flexibility, behavior, and sensory processing. Through real-world examples and practical strategies, paras will gain insight into supporting early learners with autism in ways that promote engagement, inclusion, and growth. This session is ideal for those looking to deepen their understanding and better support the diverse needs of young children on the spectrum.
Strong relationships are the foundation of a supportive and successful learning environment. This session focuses on how paraprofessionals can build meaningful, respectful, and professional relationships with students, teachers, and team members. Participants will explore strategies for building trust, promoting student engagement, and maintaining clear communication within the school community. Special attention will be given to understanding boundaries, cultural responsiveness, and the impact of consistent, caring adult connections on student behavior and achievement. Whether working one-on-one or in a classroom setting, paraprofessionals will leave this session with practical tools to strengthen relationships and foster a positive school climate.
When students experience emotional or behavioral distress, paraprofessionals play a key role in ensuring safety, de-escalation, and support. This session focuses on CPI (Crisis Prevention Intervention) core principles, emphasizing proactive strategies and safe, non-harmful responses to student crisis situations. Participants will learn how to recognize early signs of escalation, use verbal and non-verbal techniques to reduce tension, and understand their role in crisis response and post-incident support. Emphasis will be placed on maintaining student dignity, ensuring safety, and working as part of the school team to prevent future incidents. This training empowers paraprofessionals with the confidence and tools to respond calmly, consistently.
Behavior is a form of communication—and paraprofessionals are often on the front lines of interpreting and responding to it. This session equips paraprofessionals with foundational knowledge of the functions of behavior—attention, escape, access to tangibles, and sensory—and how to recognize what a student might be trying to communicate through their actions. Participants will learn practical, easy-to-use strategies to support positive behavior, prevent escalation, and reinforce appropriate alternatives, all while staying aligned with the classroom teacher’s behavior plan. Real-world scenarios and discussion will help paraprofessionals feel confident in their role as key partners in behavior support, intervention implementation, and promoting a safe, supportive learning environment.
This session will focus on how to effectively support students across academic areas while encouraging independence and critical thinking. Participants will learn strategies for prompting, guiding, and scaffolding instruction without giving answers or completing tasks for students. We’ll explore techniques for supporting reading comprehension, math problem-solving, and classroom assignments in a way that builds student confidence and capability. This training is ideal for paras who want to strike the right balance between helping and empowering, ensuring students stay engaged and take ownership of their learning.
This session will focus on practical, hands-on strategies for helping students build essential life skills such as communication, self-care, social interaction, and decision-making. Paraprofessionals will learn how to effectively support students in both structured and unstructured environments, promote independence, and reinforce skill development throughout the school day. Whether you're new to the role or looking to deepen your impact, this session will provide valuable tools and insights to help you make a lasting difference in students' everyday lives.
This session introduces paraprofessionals to the Science of Reading and Writing, focusing on how students learn to read and write using evidence-based practices. Participants will explore key literacy components—like phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension—and learn how writing supports reading development. Practical strategies and hands-on examples will equip paraprofessionals to confidently support students during literacy instruction and collaborate effectively with teachers.
Many students experience challenges with sensory processing that can impact their ability to focus, learn, and regulate emotions throughout the school day. This session introduces paraprofessionals to the basics of sensory integration—how the brain processes information from the senses—and how sensory needs can show up in student behavior. Participants will learn to recognize signs of sensory seeking and avoidance, understand the purpose of sensory supports and tools, and implement simple, classroom-friendly strategies to help students stay calm, alert, and ready to learn. Through real-life examples and collaborative discussion, paraprofessionals will gain confidence in supporting sensory regulation in partnership with teachers and therapists.
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) is at the heart of helping students build self-awareness, manage emotions, and develop healthy relationships. In this session, paraprofessionals will explore their vital role in supporting students’ social-emotional growth throughout the school day. Participants will learn practical, age-appropriate strategies to help students with self-regulation, conflict resolution, emotional check-ins, and positive communication. The session will also cover how to model SEL skills, reinforce classroom expectations, and provide consistent support aligned with schoolwide SEL practices. Whether in a general education or special education setting, paraprofessionals will leave equipped to foster a caring, respectful, and emotionally safe environment where all students can thrive.
This session will focus on effective strategies for fostering social communication, including key dos and don’ts when interacting with and supporting children on the spectrum. Participants will also learn how to recognize signs that a child may need sensory input or support, along with tools and activities that can help regulate sensory needs in a classroom setting. In addition, the session will cover the importance of visual schedules, how to implement them effectively, and how they can reduce anxiety, improve transitions, and promote independence.
This session will focus on the impact of language and tone when working with students, teachers, and families. Participants will explore how words can influence student behavior, self-esteem, and classroom climate, and will learn practical strategies for using respectful, clear, and supportive communication. We’ll also cover how to model appropriate language, give effective prompts and feedback, and maintain professionalism in all interactions. This training will empower paras to communicate with purpose and confidence, creating a more positive and productive learning environment for everyone.
When students experience emotional or behavioral distress, paraprofessionals play a key role in ensuring safety, de-escalation, and support. This session focuses on CPI (Crisis Prevention Intervention) core principles, emphasizing proactive strategies and safe, non-harmful responses to student crisis situations. Participants will learn how to recognize early signs of escalation, use verbal and non-verbal techniques to reduce tension, and understand their role in crisis response and post-incident support. Emphasis will be placed on maintaining student dignity, ensuring safety, and working as part of the school team to prevent future incidents. This training empowers paraprofessionals with the confidence and tools to respond calmly, consistently.
This session will explore age-appropriate strategies to help young children develop foundational life skills such as following routines, communicating needs, self-help skills, and engaging in positive social interactions. Paraprofessionals will gain practical tools to support children’s independence, emotional regulation, and participation in daily classroom activities. Whether you're supporting children with special needs or in inclusive settings, this training will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to foster meaningful growth during these critical early years.
Fine motor skills are essential for students' independence and academic success, from holding a pencil to fastening a button. In this session, paraprofessionals will gain a deeper understanding of what fine motor development looks like, why it matters, and how delays can impact learning and daily functioning. Participants will learn simple, hands-on strategies to support students’ fine motor growth within the classroom routine, including ways to adapt materials, reinforce occupational therapy goals, and encourage student participation. This session is designed to empower paraprofessionals with practical tools and confidence to effectively support fine motor skill development while working closely with teachers and related service providers.
Behavior is a form of communication—and paraprofessionals are often on the front lines of interpreting and responding to it. This session equips paraprofessionals with foundational knowledge of the functions of behavior—attention, escape, access to tangibles, and sensory—and how to recognize what a student might be trying to communicate through their actions. Participants will learn practical, easy-to-use strategies to support positive behavior, prevent escalation, and reinforce appropriate alternatives, all while staying aligned with the classroom teacher’s behavior plan. Real-world scenarios and discussion will help paraprofessionals feel confident in their role as key partners in behavior support, intervention implementation, and promoting a safe, supportive learning environment.
This session will provide a clear understanding of the vital role paras play in supporting student success and fostering a positive classroom environment. Participants will explore the boundaries and expectations of the position, including how to collaborate effectively with teachers, maintain professional relationships with students, and provide appropriate academic and behavioral support. We’ll also discuss common challenges paras face and offer strategies for clear communication, flexibility, and proactive problem-solving. Whether you're new to the role or looking to strengthen your practice, this session will help clarify your responsibilities and highlight the important
This session introduces paraprofessionals to the Science of Reading and Writing, focusing on how students learn to read and write using evidence-based practices. Participants will explore key literacy components—like phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension—and learn how writing supports reading development. Practical strategies and hands-on examples will equip paraprofessionals to confidently support students during literacy instruction and collaborate effectively with teachers.
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) is at the heart of helping students build self-awareness, manage emotions, and develop healthy relationships. In this session, paraprofessionals will explore their vital role in supporting students’ social-emotional growth throughout the school day. Participants will learn practical, age-appropriate strategies to help students with self-regulation, conflict resolution, emotional check-ins, and positive communication. The session will also cover how to model SEL skills, reinforce classroom expectations, and provide consistent support aligned with schoolwide SEL practices. Whether in a general education or special education setting, paraprofessionals will leave equipped to foster a caring, respectful, and emotionally safe environment where all students can thrive.
This session will focus on effective strategies for fostering social communication, including key dos and don’ts when interacting with and supporting children on the spectrum. Participants will also learn how to recognize signs that a child may need sensory input or support, along with tools and activities that can help regulate sensory needs in a classroom setting. In addition, the session will cover the importance of visual schedules, how to implement them effectively, and how they can reduce anxiety, improve transitions, and promote independence.
This session will focus on the impact of language and tone when working with students, teachers, and families. Participants will explore how words can influence student behavior, self-esteem, and classroom climate, and will learn practical strategies for using respectful, clear, and supportive communication. We’ll also cover how to model appropriate language, give effective prompts and feedback, and maintain professionalism in all interactions. This training will empower paras to communicate with purpose and confidence, creating a more positive and productive learning environment for everyone.
When students experience emotional or behavioral distress, paraprofessionals play a key role in ensuring safety, de-escalation, and support. This session focuses on CPI (Crisis Prevention Intervention) core principles, emphasizing proactive strategies and safe, non-harmful responses to student crisis situations. Participants will learn how to recognize early signs of escalation, use verbal and non-verbal techniques to reduce tension, and understand their role in crisis response and post-incident support. Emphasis will be placed on maintaining student dignity, ensuring safety, and working as part of the school team to prevent future incidents. This training empowers paraprofessionals with the confidence and tools to respond calmly, consistently.
This session will explore age-appropriate strategies to help young children develop foundational life skills such as following routines, communicating needs, self-help skills, and engaging in positive social interactions. Paraprofessionals will gain practical tools to support children’s independence, emotional regulation, and participation in daily classroom activities. Whether you're supporting children with special needs or in inclusive settings, this training will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to foster meaningful growth during these critical early years.
Fine motor skills are essential for students' independence and academic success, from holding a pencil to fastening a button. In this session, paraprofessionals will gain a deeper understanding of what fine motor development looks like, why it matters, and how delays can impact learning and daily functioning. Participants will learn simple, hands-on strategies to support students’ fine motor growth within the classroom routine, including ways to adapt materials, reinforce occupational therapy goals, and encourage student participation. This session is designed to empower paraprofessionals with practical tools and confidence to effectively support fine motor skill development while working closely with teachers and related service providers.
Behavior is a form of communication—and paraprofessionals are often on the front lines of interpreting and responding to it. This session equips paraprofessionals with foundational knowledge of the functions of behavior—attention, escape, access to tangibles, and sensory—and how to recognize what a student might be trying to communicate through their actions. Participants will learn practical, easy-to-use strategies to support positive behavior, prevent escalation, and reinforce appropriate alternatives, all while staying aligned with the classroom teacher’s behavior plan. Real-world scenarios and discussion will help paraprofessionals feel confident in their role as key partners in behavior support, intervention implementation, and promoting a safe, supportive learning environment.
This session will provide a clear understanding of the vital role paras play in supporting student success and fostering a positive classroom environment. Participants will explore the boundaries and expectations of the position, including how to collaborate effectively with teachers, maintain professional relationships with students, and provide appropriate academic and behavioral support. We’ll also discuss common challenges paras face and offer strategies for clear communication, flexibility, and proactive problem-solving. Whether you're new to the role or looking to strengthen your practice, this session will help clarify your responsibilities and highlight the important
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) is at the heart of helping students build self-awareness, manage emotions, and develop healthy relationships. In this session, paraprofessionals will explore their vital role in supporting students’ social-emotional growth throughout the school day. Participants will learn practical, age-appropriate strategies to help students with self-regulation, conflict resolution, emotional check-ins, and positive communication. The session will also cover how to model SEL skills, reinforce classroom expectations, and provide consistent support aligned with schoolwide SEL practices. Whether in a general education or special education setting, paraprofessionals will leave equipped to foster a caring, respectful, and emotionally safe environment where all students can thrive.
