Parent Perspectives on the Roles of Paraprofessionals

Abstract

This article examines parent perceptions of paraprofessional roles and employment conditions. Nineteen mothers of 23 children who received special education services in general education classrooms with support from paraprofessionals participated in focus group interviews. This exploratory study revealed that these mothers identified closely with paraprofessionals and believed that they were compassionate, dedicated people who functioned in four major roles: Connector, team member, instructor, physical caregiver/health needs provider. Participants also identified problems associated with paraprofessional employment including the lack of training, low pay, and lack of respect for the position, resulting in high levels of turnover. Respect for paraprofessionals was of particular concern to the mothers, who believed that the respect accorded to paraprofessionals reflected the respect accorded to their children.