Paraeducators are an integral part of the delivery of instruction and other services to students with disabilities. The competencies are required by both IDEA and state WAC and contribute towards improved student learning. The 14 core competency areas are:

1) Understanding the value of providing instructional and other direct services to all children and youth with disabilities.  2) Understanding the roles and responsibilities of certificated/licensed staff and paraeducators.
3) Knowledge of (a) patterns of human development and milestones typically achieved at different ages, and (b) risk factors that may prohibit or impede typical development. 
4) Ability to practice ethical and professional standards of conduct, including the requirements of confidentiality.
5) Ability to communicate with colleagues, follow instructions, and use problem solving and other skills that will enable the paraeducator to work as an effective member of the instructional team.
6) Ability to provide positive behavioral support and management.
7) Knowledge of the legal issues related to the education of children and youth with disabilities and their families.
8) Awareness of diversity among the children, youth, families, and colleagues with whom they work.
9) Knowledge and application of the elements of effective instruction to assist teaching and learning as developed by the certificated/licensed staff in a variety of settings.
10) Ability to utilize appropriate strategies and techniques to provide instructional support in teaching and learning as developed by the certificated/licensed staff.
11) Ability to motivate and assist children and youth.
12) Knowledge of and ability to follow health, safety, and emergency procedures of the agency where they are employed.
 13) Awareness of the ways in which technology can assist teaching and learning.
14) Awareness of personal care and/or health related support.

The District offers many staff development trainings as well as on-line training in these core competency areas. For more information, contact William Nutting, Executive Director, Personnel & Human Resources at 360-428-6110.