An exploration of the lived experiences of paraeducators
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Authors
Daigle, Lisa
Issue Date
2025-06-16
Item Type
Thesis
Language
en_US
Keyword
Alternative Title
Abstract
The demand for high quality paraeducators has increased the need to explore ways to recruit, train, and retain these educators. The purpose of this multi case study was to explore current roles of secondary school paraeducators using a qualitative case study design to examine their lived experiences. Responses to individual interviews and follow-up questions were analyzed using an open-coding system to develop codes, categories, and themes based on participants’ responses. The results provide an evidence-based reference to explore improvements for paraeducators’ growth and development as educators. Seven themes that evolved from this study state that paraeducators: want to make a difference in the lives of children, have a wide range of roles and responsibilities within their school, do not have enough contact with their administrators, need appropriate professional development and training throughout their careers, should be able to select the type of training and PD to meet their needs, become confident and competent in their roles over time, and need to be respected and valued within the school system to increase morale and job satisfaction.
Description
Citation
Publisher
Western Connecticut State University