It is almost the end of the 2012-2013 school year. June 30 marks the completion of another year and also the deadline for completing the required 20 hours of professional development for all Special Education Paraeducators. In years past, this has been a busy time with a flurry of forms swirling around my desk as paras rush to complete the requirement and submit the forms.
But this year is different. My phone is strangely quiet (that's not a bad thing!) and my inbox is empty. I have a few online forms to sign, but for the most part - nothing!
I think we have reached the point where 95% of our dedicated Paraeducator staff are on board and flying along on the professional development train. Everyone understands the federal requirement, understands the process for securing the hours, knows the best places to look for opportunities for training. I believe this is all due to the incredible work ethic and sense of duty our Paraeducators share. Every school day, in Westmoreland County, special needs children in WIU classes are assisted by the finest individuals in the field. These caring Classroom Assistants and Personal Care Assistants are truly professionals in every sense of the word.
As of today, June 18, 2013, WIU Classroom Assistants and Personal Care Assistants - Long Term Substitutes included - have amassed 4,566 hours of professional development. That is an average of 31 hours per person! Pretty impressive!
So, pat yourself on the back. Be proud of yourself. I know I am proud of each one of you.
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