What is the role of a paraprofessional and boundaries?

• A. Paraprofessionals are licensed professionals who make core instructional decisions.
• B. Paraprofessionals support instruction under supervision and must not replace licensed professionals for core decisions.
• C. Paraprofessionals can replace teachers in all duties.
• D. Paraprofessionals can share confidential information publicly.

Answer: (B)

Paraprofessionals provide instructional support under the supervision of licensed staff and must keep boundaries that prevent them from making independent core decisions. They assist with activities, implement accommodations, help manage behavior, and collect data as directed, but the licensed professional designs the curriculum, selects methods, and makes essential educational decisions.

This fit is ideal because it reflects both the supportive role paraprofessionals play in the classroom and the limits of their authority, ensuring student learning is guided by qualified personnel. It also highlights the importance of professional boundaries and confidentiality.

Other statements don’t fit the role: paraprofessionals aren’t licensed professionals who make core instructional decisions; they don’t replace teachers in all duties; and sharing confidential information publicly would violate privacy and ethics.