The Backbone of Student Support
A Look at What Paraprofessionals Really Do
By: Kendall Pohlenz
Behind every great teacher and in every school are quiet heroes whose acts of kindness, patience, and dedication make all the difference. Paraprofessionals, the heart and soul of education, provide care and support that each student truly deserves. Here at Doniphan-Trumbull, we're fortunate for our amazing paras and really appreciate everything they do to help us soar.
You might also notice the paraprofessionals, or paras, towards the back of your classroom. The main role of the paraprofessionals is to assist children who may need extra help with different tasks while also helping out teachers and answering questions that the students may have. But perhaps the most important task the paras have is helping the students feel at home while in school.
Mrs. Alondra Mora, an elementary para, says, “Since we have bilingual students attending Doniphan-Trumbull. I try to make them feel welcome. When they are struggling with something they don’t understand, like writing or reading, I try to help them the best I can while also helping them understand what they are learning.”
Mora and her fellow paras do so much more than just assist students with their work; they uplift and build relationships. They help students learn, stay focused, and believe in themselves. Whether it’s helping a struggling student through a math problem that seems impossible, comforting a student who is having a bad day, or celebrating every small win, these paras make learning possible for so many who need a little extra encouragement. They build relationships and make students feel included.
Ms. Mindy Lavalleur, who assists preschool, kindergarten, 2nd grade, and even some high school students, shares, “I build relationships with the children on the playground, and sit with them in the bleachers in the morning. I learn about who they are and what they like, so I can connect and help them.”
The job of a para requires endless compassion and flexibility. They need to adapt to each situation, and all students' needs must be satisfied with patience and understanding. They build bonds among teachers, students, and their families, making classrooms feel a little safer.
What makes a paraprofessional truly special isn't just their skill; it's their heart. They show up every day ready to give their best, without complaint, but always with a smile and a purpose. They remind us that education isn't just about books and lessons; it's about people. It's about making the children feel seen, valued, and capable.
Sophomore, LJ Martin states, “They help me through a lot of my classes that I struggle with. Without the paras that help me through my homework and quizzes, I don’t think I would have the grades that I have now.”
Thank you again to all paraprofessionals. Thank you for your patience, for your strength, and for your endless kindness. You brighten up classrooms, strengthen students, and make schools better. You are the soul of education, and your impact on education extends beyond any school.