It wasn't long ago that Missouri school districts were experiencing critical staff shortages—and, as a result, Missouri special-education students weren't getting the hands-on, in-classroom help they needed.

Now, however, a program called Pathways for Paraprofessionals is changing that in some 200 districts across the state—roughly one-third of all Missouri school districts.

Is your special-ed learner getting the short end of the stick because of school district employee shortages? The Education Law Team at the Lento Law Firm can help. Call them at 888.535.3686 or send a message by clicking here.

What Is Pathways for Paras?

Pathways for Paraprofessionals is a program involving Missouri State's College of Education in partnership with the state's K-12 schools—which are ranked #21 out of all 50 states' PreK-12 programs by U.S. News & World Report. Approximately 200 of the districts have been suffering from teacher and paraprofessional shortages. That equals about a third of all Missouri districts.

The U.S. Department of Labor's registered apprenticeship model forms the foundation of Pathways' approach. In the three years since this model was introduced, it's garnered a great deal of interest from state governments, school districts, and aspiring educators. Widespread adoption of the model for teachers as well as other professionals is expected through the next decade or so.

What's the Issue?

All students deserve a well-rounded school experience, which includes not just the textbook learning they'll need for higher grades, but also the social skills necessary for a successful life. However, special-ed kids often require additional assistance to meet their particular needs and to bring them up to speed with their peers.

Nationally and in Missouri, the numbers of paraprofessionals who are equipped to work with special-education students fall consistently below adequate.

Some parents are concerned that the Pathways for Paras program is funneling new educators into classrooms too quickly. While it's a step in the right direction to implement the initiative to address the shortfall, they say, paraprofessionals require more experience before they're able to truly help the kids. It will be a while before they develop these on-the-job skills—and in the meantime, what will happen to the children who are being served during this training period?

Helping Students Who Are Still Underserved

Naturally, we all want the best for our children. And so do the people who devote their careers to caring for, teaching, and otherwise supporting special-ed kids. There's no question that paraprofessionals' hearts are in the right place—and that they're taking advantage of valuable programs like Pathways for Paras to serve this vulnerable population. However, their good intentions aren't always sufficient when it comes to real-world classrooms and the students who need help.

If you're concerned that your kids aren't getting the attention and professional assistance they deserve, call the Education Law team at the Lento Law Firm at 888.535.3686 or click here.