ABSTRACT
The paraeducator is an important member of an educational team and works closely with students, teachers, service providers, and parents to provide support and ensure student success. Paraeducators serve the teachers, students, and the schools in which they are assigned through a variety of noninstructional roles. The increased inclusion of students with disabilities within the general education classroom has allowed paraeducators to expand their services outside of the special education classroom. Effective communication is the cornerstone of education. Open and effective communication skills are vital among all individuals responsible for the delivery of services to students with disabilities. Effective communication begins with the establishment of rapport. Paraeducators should work to establish good rapport and regular communication with the supervising teachers and students with whom they work. An analysis of earlier research pertaining to the utilization of paraeducators within the field of education indicated a more administrative role.
