Empowering Teachers: How to Advocate for Yourself When Working with Paraprofessionals 💬💪
My Journey Working with Paraprofessionals
I used to struggle when working with paraprofessionals. In my first classroom, I had paras who were older than my parents and who brought a lot of important knowledge about the history of education for these learners. While I respected their experience, I also had valuable information to share, especially regarding trauma-informed care practices. However, I faced resistance when trying to implement these practices over the traditional methods like isolation and restraint.
I used to think the problem was with the paras, but then I had a great advisor who shifted my perspective. She validated my concerns by saying, “I trust your judgment. They might not respect you, and they may be causing safety issues by not following instructions.” But she also told me, “You can keep doing what you're doing, and nothing will change, or you can change yourself.”
That was the moment it clicked for me. I wasn’t a victim of my circumstances—I had the power to change my approach. For example, with administrators, I learned to structure my conversations differently:
“I’m having a problem,”
“This is what I’ve tried,”
“Here are some potential solutions,” and
“What do you think?”
This small shift in communication style helped me immensely in advocating for my needs. Instead of complaining, I explained what hadn’t worked, offered solutions, and sought input. This collaborative approach improved my relationships with both paras and administrators. Here are some other tips that can help you advocate for yourself effectively:
1. Pick Your Battles Wisely 🎯
It’s important to choose which challenges to address so that you don’t become overwhelmed by trying to tackle everything at once. For me, I focused on four key areas:
Safety: Ensure that the classroom is safe for both learners and staff. This might involve training paras on trauma-informed care practices and ensuring that everyone understands how to handle crises appropriately.
Team Collaboration: Build a cooperative and communicative relationship with paras, fostering an environment where teamwork is valued and promoted.
Classroom Structure: Post clear expectations and rules in the classroom for learners and staff to follow. This ensures that everyone knows their responsibilities and the appropriate responses to various situations.
Consistency in Instruction: Focus on keeping behavior management strategies and teaching methods consistent to avoid confusion among learners and paraeducators.
2. Prioritize the Most Pressing Issues First ⏳
In a busy classroom, there will always be multiple things competing for your attention. To advocate effectively, it's important to prioritize the most pressing issues—those that affect student learning, safety, or classroom functioning. Not every conflict needs to be addressed immediately. Choose what requires your focus based on urgency and impact.
3. Foster Team Building with Paras and Administrators 🤝
Building strong relationships is key to creating a positive classroom environment. Foster a teamwork mentality by regularly meeting with your paraeducators and administrators. When everyone is on the same page, it's easier to resolve conflicts and move forward with clear goals. Make an effort to get input from paras and encourage their feedback on classroom dynamics. Similarly, maintain open lines of communication with administrators so they are aware of your needs and challenges.
4. Set Clear Expectations 📋
One of the biggest sources of conflict is miscommunication or unclear expectations. Be proactive by posting clear and objective expectations in the classroom for both staff and learners. When everyone understands their role and the rules, it’s easier to hold people accountable and resolve issues when they arise.
5. Recognize When to Speak Up 🔍
It’s crucial to recognize when to speak up. Paraeducator conflicts—whether over unclear roles or behavior management—are common triggers. Instead of letting things build up, address issues early. However, is your administrator busy with other things? Is there a better time to approach leadership for support? Carefully consider the timing of your advocacy.
6. Frame Your Concerns Clearly and Positively ✍️
When bringing up an issue, focus on solutions rather than frustrations. Communicate what support you need in a way that fosters collaboration.
Example:
Instead of: "The para never follows my instructions."
Try: "I think it would help if we had a weekly meeting to go over classroom expectations and our roles."
7. Use Data to Support Your Requests 📊
When advocating for changes or support, back up your concerns with data. Document how unresolved conflicts or lack of support are impacting the classroom and student outcomes.
Example:
“Since the para has struggled with managing behavior, we’ve seen a 20% increase in classroom disruptions, which is affecting learning time.”
8. Build Strong Relationships with Administrators 🤝
Building relationships with administrators can make advocating for yourself easier. Keep them informed of your needs and challenges, and always approach them with solutions, not just problems.
9. Set Boundaries and Manage Expectations ⏰
Para conflicts often arise from unclear boundaries or miscommunication. Setting clear expectations for both yourself and your paraeducators can prevent many issues before they start.
10. Practice Self-Advocacy Daily 💪
Self-advocacy is a daily practice. Stay proactive by regularly communicating your needs and collaborating with your team. Don’t wait for a crisis to start advocating for yourself.
Conclusion: Advocating for Yourself is Advocating for Your Students 🎓
By learning to advocate for your own needs, you ensure a better learning environment for your students. Speaking up effectively, setting boundaries, and working collaboratively with administrators and paraprofessionals are key steps to creating positive, supportive classrooms for both teachers and learners.
