Part 7- Training Your Staff

In the latest episode of Teach Task Box Inspire, Lisa focuses on the topic of training paraprofessionals in autism classrooms. Paraprofessionals play a pivotal role in student support, and Lisa discusses the importance of comprehensive training in understanding autism, implementing IEPS, managing behaviors, and using communication devices effectively. Paraprofessionals are in our classrooms day in and day out, it is vital that they are trained properly and provide exactly what your autism class needs in a teaching assistant.

Lisa provides practical strategies like pre-school year training, ongoing professional development, resource provision, and mentorship programs to foster a cohesive team environment. Lisa also acknowledges the challenges of managing diverse personalities among paraprofessionals but stresses the importance of clarity in expectations to create a supportive learning environment.

Part 7 of the mini-series is one that you do not want to miss. Take a listen and train your classroom staff properly and effectively!

Episode Highlights:

• Importance of Paraprofessional Training: Lisa underscores the essential role paraprofessionals play in supporting students with autism and highlights the significance of thorough training.
• Key Training Components: She outlines essential components of training, including understanding autism, familiarity with IEPs, classroom routines, behavior management, and communication devices.
• Practical Training Strategies: Practical steps such as pre-school year training sessions, ongoing professional development, resource provision, and mentorship programs are discussed to enhance effectiveness.
• Challenges and Solutions: Lisa candidly addresses challenges in managing paraprofessionals, advocating for clear expectations and structured support systems to overcome these hurdles.

Resources Mentioned:

• IEP at a glance document (FREE)
• Teacher Binder
• Data Collection Sheets
• Student Accommodations Sheet (FREE)
• Para-brochure or paraprofessional manual
• Free training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education Classroom

Connect with Me:

• Instagram: @chalkboard_superhero
• Join my Facebook group, Special Education Superheroes
• Join my email list
• Shop my TPT store
• Join the Teach, Taskbox, Inspire Membership

More About Teach, Task Box, Inspire: The Podcast:

Teach, Task Box, Inspire: The Podcast is your go-to educational podcast dedicated to making your job as a special education teacher easier and more enjoyable. Your host, Lisa Hollady, is a veteran special education teacher with a passion for helping teachers like you make a real difference in the lives of your students.

In your demanding roles, you’re constantly juggling various responsibilities, from differentiated instruction and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) to data collection, and, of course, teaching. That’s where task boxes come in.

Task boxes aren’t just teaching tools. They’re the key to unlocking student independence, student engagement, and personalized learning. Through this podcast, you’ll uncover the incredible task box benefits for your special needs students and practical implementation tips that you can take to your classroom.

Tune in each Monday for a new episode that will equip you with essential strategies and motivation to approach your week with confidence and enthusiasm. Topics will include task box activities, social and emotional development, adaptive teaching, inclusive teaching, supporting diverse learners, classroom management, scheduling, visual aids, and more.

If you’re looking for more special education resources and support with increasing student independence, check out Lisa's FREE training.