There aren’t a lot of things we can say. To be fair, when we started ParaEducate in 2012, we didn’t look too much further than the book we had written. We had no plans for updates. We had no plans for a book series. And we had some loose plans for things that were related to curriculum adaptations but nothing was definitive at that moment. We were just trying to get the book published. And by this time in 2012: our book was available.
But we are still excited to continue connecting with amazing individuals like Nicole Eredics, Beth Foraker, Amanda Morin, and of course, Megan Gross just to name a few. The support of our followers and our professional connections has drawn quite a network over the years and we are very happy to connect with those who are at different points in their journey.
And yet here we are. Over seven different conferences attended. Nine published books, of which eight are supplemental curriculum. We’ve spoken with hundreds of paraeducators, administrators, student teachers, teachers, professors, parents, and self-advocates across multiple states.
Over seven different conferences attended. Nine published books…
ParaEducate
Where are we heading?
ParaEducate recognizes that most of our work is still ahead of us. Training paraeducators is a full-time job and all too often it is ignored. But it is a careful balancing act between providing students the instructions to move forward on their own and being ready to catch on the fall. The whole world expects our students to make progress, with and without disabilities. And with having been in a district that has been primarily in distance learning—that progress is going to be managed very differently in the near future.
Students with disabilities need to have experiences with peers and their general education teachers. They need to know they belong to their campus and that they are welcome without question.
Our work is never done. Such is the process of education: take what you know, expand that knowledge, share, and learn something new. We are lucky to have had this platform for so long and we will continue to help support as many as we can.
Our work is never done. Such is the process of education: take what you know, expand that knowledge, share, and learn something new.
ParaEducate
Any hints about the upcoming book?
Yes, we are working on a long-awaited book we have owed the world for quite a while. We expect announcements this summer. Can’t wait to tell you all.
One more time
ParaEducate will be sending Renay to Cal-TASH. Look for her on Saturday.
If you’re coming on Friday: it will be a real treat, Nicole Eredics will be there. Cal-TASH 2021 is not one to miss.
In Case You Didn’t Really Know
ParaEducate is a company providing materials, information, and strategies for people working in K-12 inclusive schools. We reach out through our book, ParaEducate, conferences, our weekly blog, trainings, and our modifications.
And yes, next year, be ready for a major celebration. We’re turning ten next year.
Do you have any comments about this week’s blog? Do you have a question for us? Would you like to have an opportunity to pilot some materials at your campus? Find ParaEducate online here, here, here, here, and on our website. ParaEducate is a company providing materials, information, and strategies for people working in special education inclusion settings for grades K-12. ParaEducate, the blog, is published during the academic school year on Mondays, unless a holiday or announced day off. ParaEducate shares their findings at conferences, through their books, and their academic adaptations.
