Improving the Skills of Special Education Paraprofessionals: A Rural School District's Model for Staff Development

Abstract

Despite an increase in the number of teacher aides in special education classes, there are few training programs available for these aides. Programs specific to rural school districts are noticeably limited. This article outlines a staff development program for special education teacher aides developed by a rural school district in northwest Pennsylvania. The program is designed to be continuous, and is based on best practice as well as suggestions from district staff. After the first year of implementation, the program received positive ratings, both objectively and subjectively, in all areas. The program was also implemented in the St. Marys Area School District at a cost of under $5,000.