Effective Paraprofessional Training: 101s for Success
Effective Paraprofessional Training: 101s for Success
In response to many requests and growing needs across our schools, we’re offering a professional learning opportunity focused on building leadership skills to support and grow paraprofessional (SECA) effectiveness, especially when increasing student needs and decreasing resources.
This is a chance to strengthen leadership! Paraprofessionals’ commitment and performance can make or break a school day, and profoundly shape the experience of the children we serve.
Who Should Attend
- Principals
- Instructional Coaches
- Case Managers
- Paraprofessional Leads
What You’ll Learn
- Fundamentals of being an effective, supportive, and child-centered paraprofessional.
- Essential strategies for all effective school employees.
✅ Learning Objectives:
Participants will:
- Define what it means to lead and model effective, student-centered paraprofessional practice.
- Identify systems and strategies that create accountability and support for paraprofessional growth.
- Understand neurodivergent student needs and how to ensure paras are trained to support them with dignity and regulation-first approaches.
- Leave with practical tools to mentor, coach, and advocate for paraprofessionals as essential members of the IEP team.
Bios
Dr. Destiny Huff is an experienced educator, consultant, and advocate with over 15 years in the field. A late-diagnosed autistic and ADHD professional, she brings both personal and professional expertise in supporting neurodivergent students. As a mother of two children on IEPs, Dr. Huff centers her work on equity, inclusion, and dignity for all learners—especially those navigating systems that weren’t built for them.
Dr. Max Weinberg founded Belonging, an educational consulting practice dedicated to strengthening school belonging for all community members, beginning with children. With a background and training as a teacher, principal, parent, and leadership coach, Max brings over 25 years of experience supporting schools to build inclusive, emotionally responsive, and equity-driven environments. He is a national presenter on the needs of adopted and loss-affected school children.
Cost
*We believe cost should never be a barrier to professional growth. If the $100 fee is a challenge, please reach out—scholarships or sliding-scale options are available.
Email: max@belonging.education for support.
**Also, please email Max for vendor number or invoice if you are in Chicago Public Schools.