Under IDEA, can an inclusion paraprofessional be called to substitute teach outside their core schedule?

Question

I am an inclusion para in Texas. Have been called to sub outside my core classes on NUMEROUS occasions. Have been told it is in violation of IDEA. Details?

Answer 1

I think it depends on the situation. IDEA doesn't require schools to provide a para for an inclusion class, but it does require that students be exposed to the regular ed curriculum and given the necessary supports to make it work. You might be considered a necessary support, but I also think it depends on how the class is structured and the level of the kids.

Is it in the student's IEP that a para will be in the class at all times? I think that would strengthen your case. You're right, you should be in class and not subbing, but I'm not sure IDEA is the argument to use. Maybe the safety and well being of the kids should be your argument. In our state we aren't supposed to leave the paras alone with the class (even though we do), so if that's the case in your state, maybe that's the argument you could make.

It might also help to involve the teachers who can say they need you, and maybe even get the teacher's union, and yours, involved if it doesn't get any better.

Look for some online articles to support your position, too. Has anyone talked to the administration yet? One time a teacher didn't have a sub and they gave me her kids and tried to take away the para and I got the principal out of a meeting to tell her I couldn't do it without the para. Once I explained how important she was, and why I needed her it was no problem and they found someone else to cover her.

Subs are a constant battle with us, too. In my sub plans I always ask the sub to leave their phone number and if they're good I try to call them to sub for me.

Our class can't function without our para! She's wonderful!

Answer 2

I'd like to know too.. We get called to sub on our planning periods because the district doesn't have enough subs. Sometimes their are no subs, all Sp ed teachers called out and one teacher watching 4 jr. hi.classes! sp ed teacher in AZ

Answer 3

While I am not positive, I would imagine that IDEA does not cover para. (Sorry). We have many of the same substitue issues in upstate NY, isn't it a sad situation?