Are special ed teachers in NYS required to have an aid or para in the classroom with them at all times?

Question

What about the middle school or high school years? What should you do if u should have one and don't?

Answer 1

depends on the type of calss and number of students

and if any IEPs specifically require it

teh guidelines may be on the dept of ed website

report violations to teh state dept of ed

Answer 2

The need for a para-professional is determined by the type of disabilities and needs of the classroom.  Typically a "resource" teacher will have students with mild/moderate learning disabilities and will not have a para-professional.  Teachers with students with cognitive disabilities will generally have a para-professional BUT they do NOT have to be in the classroom at all times.  My para-professionals would take students to general education classes and stay there to help them, or they would escort students to the bathroom or change diapers in a special room.  

I taught both elementary and high school and always had at least one para-professional working with me.  She would do whatever I needed her to do - make copies, help with teaching, work one-on-one with kids - and occasionally she would be out of the classroom.  

If you need a para, first talk with your department chairman and the administrator in charge of the special education department.  Have specific information for them as to why you need a para, not just "I need help", but specific incidences that have happened that may have been averted if you had a para, specific needs of your students that require the aid of a para.  Getting them on board with you will really help with getting the wheels turning to get you the help you need.

Answer 3

This depends on the number and how disabled the students are. Typically, the more severe the disability, the more aids or para professionals are assigned. A teacher who had a small number of students with learning disabilities or mild disabilities may not be assigned an assistant. The middle and high school years are similarly based on ability levels of the students. If you are a teacher, you should talk to your administration if you feel you need more support. The next step up may be the school board or state board of education depending on your district and policies.