As a retired principal, Stacy Mesnard knows very well the important role that paraprofessionals play in a school.  They are doing important work all day long from the classroom to the playground to the cafeteria and everywhere in between.   In this workshop you will be provided with practical, useful information to help you become the best paraprofessional you can be in your school.  Topics covered will include demonstrating professionalism, building relationships with coworkers, assisting students with disabilities, classroom management, performance of school duties, communicating with students and their parents, and much more.  Tips and strategies to help paraprofessionals facilitate small group learning within the classroom will also be shared.  Along with some humor added into this workshop, you will feel confident and encouraged in this vital role you play in the school.

This workshop is for paraprofessionals working with ages PreK-12.  A catered meal will be served to those attending.

Optional: From 7:00 pm – 7:30 pm Grand Canyon University will have counselors on site to provide information on different pathways to get your Illinois teaching license. GCU offers all online bachelor’s and master’s level programs that lead to IL licensure. This portion of the training is optional, but we encourage you to stick around and learn more about federal aid, scholarships, and grants that may greatly reduce the cost of these programs to get your IL teaching license!