Substitute Paraprofessional Job Description and Duties

Updated on: April 11, 2022
Position Overview

Substitute paraprofessionals help lead teachers in handling classroom instructions and performing administrative functions.

Working in the academic arena is tricky – one is responsible for shaping the future of many students, so it is necessary to be a role model yourself, no matter which position you are working at.

Substitute paraprofessionals need to be friendly, patient, and extremely well-informed about their work.

Working as a substitute, paraprofessional has some limitations, though. For instance, one cannot create a curriculum or impart lessons unless specifically instructed by the lead teacher.

Education, Skills, and Abilities

Substitute paraprofessionals do not need a degree or certification in teaching, but if they do have one, there is an excellent chance of moving up the ladder swiftly.

If this is where you want to begin your teaching career, you will have to be knowledgeable of teaching practices, possess the ability to get along with students of different ages and temperaments, and be extremely flexible with your schedule.

See also: Substitute Paraprofessional Resume

What you can do as a substitute paraprofessional is given in the list below:

Substitute Paraprofessional Duties and Responsibilities

• Instruct assigned classes according to specific instructions provided by the school/lead teacher.

• Understand teaching methodologies and the daily schedule of each class.

• Monitor students in accordance with directions provided by the lead teacher.

• Present a positive role model for teachers by engaging in the appropriate behavior and conversation with them.

• Create a classroom environment conducive to learning a wide variety of concepts.

• Observe students for signs of distress or behavior issues and attempt to handle the situation immediately.

• Assist in imparting lessons by providing needed logistical support to the lead teacher.

• Encourage students to set and maintain standards of appropriate behavior within the classroom.

• Guide students in classroom assignments and activities both individually and in groups.

• Collect teaching materials and arrange them appropriately for use by the lead teacher.

• Keep bulletin boards and classroom displays up to date and assist in checking notebooks and assignments..

• Check and record students’ attendance and handle records while maintaining a high level of confidentiality.

• Assist young students with washing up and toilet routine and encourage them to eat their lunches.