PARA Welcome Book
A Practical Guide to Support New Paraeducators
New to supporting paraeducators—or looking for a more thoughtful way to welcome them into Special Education classrooms?
The PARA Welcome Book below is a practical onboarding resource for new paraeducators. It’s designed to be read directly and revisited as needed, offering concrete guidance for everyday classroom situations.
What the PARA Welcome Book Covers
Starting as a paraeducator opened my eyes to a world of small victories, quiet challenges, and lessons no one formally prepares you for. Much of what matters most is learned on the job—often through trial, error, and observation. You can read more about those first months in the classroom in thisblog post about my early PARA experiences.
This book brings together what I wish I had on day one. It draws from my hands-on experience as a District 11 SPED paraeducator, alongside inclusive practices shaped by my work and study. It’s meant to be supportive and practical—a guide that walks beside you, not a rulebook that talks at you.
The PARA Welcome Book focuses on everyday classroom realities, including:
- Building trust with students — creating safe, supportive relationships that make learning possible
- Recognizing early signs of dysregulation — responding thoughtfully before situations escalate
- Communicating with dignity — supporting students while preserving respect and autonomy
- Working as part of a team — collaborating clearly and confidently with teachers and staff
- Practicing inclusive, anti-ableist thinking — recognizing strengths without lowering expectations
- Caring for yourself while supporting others — sustaining presence, energy, and perspective
Each section is designed to help new paraeducators feel prepared, valued, and grounded in their role.
Have experience supporting paraeducators?
Take a few minutes to share what new PARAs really need to know. Your insight will help strengthen this resource for those entering Special Education for the first time.