What’s it like being a paraeducator? 

Paraeducators support all students in the classroom by helping with assignments and lessons. They are there to assist while the teacher is teaching, or working with someone else. Paraeducators also make sure everyone is on task. 

Knight Times journalists recently interviewed Mr. Gordillo – a paraeducator at Shadow – and asked what his favorite thing is about being a paraeducator. “Being able to work with different students,” Gordillo said. He works with students who have various levels of learning challenges. 

When asked if he has considered becoming a teacher in the future, he said, “After a few years either working here or being here in the district, I do plan on applying to a credential program and getting my Special [Education] credential.” 

Being a paraeducator can have some challenges, and is harder than it looks. Some students can become frustrated when they are working hard to understand a new lesson or concept. Gordillo has discovered a strategy to address that in a way that helps both he and the students. 

“…Sometimes all they need is a walk,” he pointed out.