Perceptions of Paraeducators on Job Retention

Abstract

Retaining paraeducators is reported to be an issue for some schools. Jobs with more favorable working conditions are said to draw paraeducators from education. The purpose of this study was to investigate issues related to retention or attrition of paraeducators. Structured interviews were conducted with 21 participants, drawn from two public school districts in North Carolina. Participants included both stayers (those who remain on the job) and leavers (those who left the job) to achieve a balance of information. Four major findings emerged: (a) the length of time paraeducators stayed on the job; (b) the primary reason for taking a job as a paraeducator; (c) difficulties with low pay; and (d) issues related to working conditions.