Suzanne Silva, Holly Simonsen, Mary Hesse, Debbie Feser, Dawn Hagert and Sharon Ferdinandt.  Back: Krystal Plaster, Judy Walter, Rachel Ahlness, Samantha Shoen, Pat Dauer, Melanie Danielson, Melonie Heiling, Dana Larson and Alyssa Sorenson. Paraprofessionals Barb Jones and Randee Krueger were unavailable for picture.

Paraprofessionals recognized for their work at Springfield Public Schools

The support and services provided by paraprofessionals are integral to student achievement, resulting in more effective Minnesota schools. The State of Minnesota and the Minnesota Department of Education are committed to excellence in education and recognize the important role that paraprofessionals play in ensuring educational success, therefore designate the fourth week in January as Paraprofessional Recognition Week. Paraprofessionals at Springfield Public Schools were celebrated on Thursday, Jan. 26, with the celebration centered on the theme, “Behind every good teacher is a great paraprofessional.” 

Paraprofessionals provide services in multiple settings within schools, including support for instruction, student activities, and individual students, as well as numerous other tasks that contribute to educational success. Paraprofessionals may work in a variety of positions in a school district including, but not limited to instructional assistants, Title I paraprofessionals, pupil support assistants, special education paraprofessionals, job coaches, lunch room and playground assistants, hall monitors and media center assistants. Many teacher assistants work primarily or exclusively with students who have special education needs.  Their duties vary according to the needs of the student from physical assistance and care to behavioral management and academic assistance.  In Minnesota paraprofessionals must meet specific locally-developed requirements depending on the role and duties they are assigned.  When hiring paraprofessionals, all school districts are required to meet the requirements of Minnesota Statutes, section 120B.363. 

 

Springfield Advance-Press

13 S. Marshall Avenue PO Box 78 Springfield, MN 56087

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