Paraprofessional Training
Empowering Inclusive Schools: A Learning Series for Paraprofessionals Supporting Students with Disabilities Launching in Fall 2025!
Students with disabilities in inclusive schools deserve skilled, knowledgeable paraprofessionals who understand their roles and can implement evidence-based practices. This comprehensive training series empowers paraprofessionals to support students effectively while fostering belonging, independence, and academic success.
Non-Credit Professional Development Training Course
Paraprofessionals from a variety of educational settings will find this course valuable, including those working in elementary, middle, and high schools, general education classrooms, resource rooms, and specialized programs. The focus is on moving students with disabilities from less inclusive to more inclusive educational environments. Understanding effective support strategies for students with disabilities, including those with extensive support needs, will help you serve students more effectively and collaborate meaningfully with teachers, families, and related service providers.
The self-paced, online training course includes access to the content you need to become proficient in supporting students with disabilities in inclusive educational environments.
Paraprofessionals who've previewed the modules are already sharing feedback like this:
"This is the first time I've seen any meaningful training for SpEd paras!"
"An abundance of knowledge and skills to be learned and revisited. Questions and doubts answered with solutions effective for all."
"A well presented (self-paced) learning opportunity for those in the field that would like to expand their knowledge in how to use best practices to support learners of all abilities."
You will learn:
Course 1 - Foundations of Inclusive Education (4 Modules)
- What inclusive education is and why it matters - Understanding the foundation and importance of inclusive practices for all students
- How to promote belonging - Strategies for creating welcoming, supportive classroom environments
- How to identify and maximize learning opportunities - Recognizing teachable moments across school activities and environments
- Your role in supporting inclusive IEPs - Collaborating effectively with the educational team and maintaining confidentiality
Course 2 - Advanced Inclusive Practices (6 Modules; available in Winter 2026)
- Evidence-based instructional strategies - Using prompting, fading, and natural supports to promote student independence
- Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles - Implementing flexible tools and materials for diverse learners
- Communication support strategies - Supporting students who are non-speaking or use AAC devices
- Positive behavior support approaches - Understanding behavior as communication and implementing effective interventions
- How to facilitate peer relationships - Recognizing and creating opportunities for meaningful social connections
- Strategies for fostering student independence - Avoiding over-assistance while providing appropriate support
Training will coordinate with current research and evidence-based practices in inclusive education, special education, and disability studies.
You will earn:
Once you have completed the training you will have access to a wide range of valuable resources and materials:
- Access to all instruction from the training for easy review
- Downloadable resources including worksheets, checklists, and implementation guides
- Certificate of Completion with Professional Development Hours (1 hour per module)
- Ongoing access to updated materials and resources
The number of professional development hours earned from this online training may not translate to the same number of hours required by your licensing governing board or employment requirements. Our professional development offerings are based on 1:1 contact hours. It is your responsibility to apply to your employer or professional organization for the training hours earned, using the Certificate of Completion granted. Along with this Certificate of Completion, you may also access your official training transcript.
Learn more about this online training by visiting the FAQ page.
Pricing and Registration
Registration is accepted on an ongoing basis starting in Fall 2025. You may register for the training at any time, and move through at your own pace.
Course 1 - Foundations (4 modules; 4 total clock hours)
- Individual user access - $220
- 1-Year Site License for
- Sites with 10 or more users - $176 per user (20% discount)
[Registration will be available by November 17, 2025] - Sign up for Early Access by filling out this form !
Training Modules Overview
Course 1: Foundations of Inclusive Education
Module 1: Inclusion: Why & How (Required - 60 min)
- Understanding inclusive education principles and their importance for all students
- Recognizing the three major learning opportunities across school environments
- Challenging ableism through the Least Dangerous Assumption
- Defining your role in implementing effective inclusive programs
Module 2: Promoting a Sense of Belonging (60 min)
- Understanding the critical importance of belonging for all learners
- Exploring the dimensions of belonging in school and classroom settings
- Implementing strategies to enhance belonging in inclusive environments
Module 3: Learning Opportunities (60 min)
- Identifying teachable moments throughout the school day
- Understanding the three major learning priorities for students with disabilities
- Supporting academic learning, peer engagement, and communication development
Module 4: Inclusive IEPs (60 min)
- Understanding your role in collaborative IEP implementation
- Learning data collection and documentation procedures
- Maintaining confidentiality and professionalism in all interactions