Why Schools Overuse Paraprofessionals in Inclusive Education (and What to Do Instead)

Michael Giangreco is a University Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Special Education at the University of Vermont and is affiliated with the UVM Center on Disability and Community Inclusion. He’s authored over 200 publications, presented across the U.S. and internationally, and is known for the “Absurdities and Realities of Special Education” cartoon collection, created to spark reflection and change in inclusive education.

Tim talks with Michael about why many schools over-rely on paraprofessionals for inclusion and how that can unintentionally create dependency, block peer relationships, reduce teacher ownership, and limit access to qualified instruction. Michael offer ...