Teacher Assistants

Teacher assistants are just what their name implies. They are here to assist the teacher with anything that needs to be done. Primarily, they are to be a second teacher in the room working with smaller groups or individuals. They can do clerical activities, but not at the expense of instruction. They are crucial to the success of students in the classroom.

Teacher assistants are also responsible for the monitoring of students. This may be in the classroom; in the cafeteria at lunch; or awaiting the arrival of parents after school.
Classroom teachers are responsible for the teacher assistant assigned to them. They work at their direction. Assistants are to remain with their students during all special classes. At that time, they are to work under the direction of the specialist.

Whenever teacher assistants are out of the room, it should be with the approval of the classroom teacher or specialist. Most of their day should be spent working with children in learning situations. They are too valuable a resource to limit them to clerical duties. They are additional hands, feet, and voices. Use them wisely and both teachers and students will reap the benefits.
Teacher assistants should not be used to deliver whole group instruction on their own. They should work with small groups doing activities outlined and developed by the teacher.