Association of Texas Professional Educators
 
 

Tips for Para-educators in Times of Stress

Due to TAKS testing and other high stress mandates on educators, there are times during the school year that can become very stressful. Undoubtedly, instructional aides feel the crush of large amounts of extra work and such a demanding atmosphere can strain many working relationships, particularly that of a teacher and an instructional aide. What can you do to improve your working relationship with teachers when you feel you’re being pushed to the limit? Use the following strategies to assist you during this rough time.

Clarify and prioritize

  • If the instructions are unclear, ask questions
  • Repeat instructions to be sure you understand them
  • Be clear with your phrasing
  • If the instructions conflict with another assignment, ask the teacher to prioritize

Report back

  • Inform the teacher when a task is completed
  • Give her brief daily reports on the progress of each task
  • When incurring problems, inform your supervisor and explain steps your taken to remedy them

Take time to think

  • When tackling a task, allow yourself time to think about your options.

You are ultimately responsible for doing your job well, regardless of the performance of those around you. Conducting yourself professionally and making reasonable attempts to work with your teacher and supervisor will ensure that you working with your colleagues will be less stressful.