What is the role of paraprofessionals in implementing IEPs and how should supervision be structured?

• A. Paraprofessionals replace licensed teachers for instruction.
• B. Paraprofessionals provide instructional support under the supervision of licensed teachers; they implement specific tasks but do not independently determine placement or services.
• C. Paraprofessionals supervise teachers.
• D. Paraprofessionals make all placement decisions.

Answer: (B)

Paraprofessionals provide instructional support under the supervision of licensed teachers and do not determine a student’s placement or services. They carry out specific, teacher-directed tasks that align with the IEP, such as implementing parts of a lesson, prompting a student, assisting with accommodations, managing materials, and collecting data on progress toward goals. The licensed teacher retains responsibility for designing the instruction, making decisions about services, and deciding on placement or program changes based on IEP team input.

Supervision should be structured and ongoing. The supervising licensed teacher or qualified professional sets clear roles, provides modeling and coaching, and gives regular feedback to ensure the paraprofessional implements strategies with fidelity. There should be routine check-ins or observations, review of data collected, and training on needed skills. This framework keeps the IEP goals on track while ensuring student safety, alignment with legal requirements, and appropriate professional boundaries.