What is a requirement for paraprofessionals according to IDEA 97?

According to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) of 1997, one of the crucial requirements for paraprofessionals is that they must be trained for their roles and be appropriately supervised. This provision underscores the importance of having qualified personnel to support students with disabilities effectively. Training ensures that paraprofessionals have the necessary skills and knowledge to assist in the education process appropriately and to implement strategies and interventions that align with best practices. Supervision is equally important as it allows teachers or other qualified staff to guide, mentor, and evaluate the paraprofessionals, ensuring that the support provided to students is consistent with their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and educational goals.

While there may be various responsibilities for paraprofessionals, IDEA emphasizes that their roles are within a framework of support under the guidance of trained educators rather than operating completely independently or without the necessary training.