Paraprofessionals

Paraprofessional learning opportunities offered by the Diagnostic Center, Central California.

Professional Development Manual Home | Special Event Offerings | 2025-26 Learning Opportunities

P-1 Foundations of Trauma Informed Support: What Every Paraprofessional Should Know (NEW)

Presenters

  • Dení Dayan, School Psychologist, Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP)

Intended Audience

Paraprofessionals

Time

1.5 hours

Format

In person

Summary

This workshop provides a clear understanding of how trauma affects the developing brain. Participants will learn about the five types of trauma, how they impact brain development and behavior, and gain insights into supporting students of all ages. This session will equip paraeducators with practical knowledge to better understand and support students.

Participants will be able to

  • Gain insights about working with students who have experienced trauma.
  • Name the 5 types of trauma.
  • Describe how trauma impacts the developing brain.

P-2 Kind and Clear: Responsive Discipline that Connects for the Paraprofessional (NEW)

Presenter

  • Dení Dayan, School Psychologist, Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP)

Intended Audience

Paraprofessionals

Time

1.5 hours

Format

In Person

Summary

This workshop is customized for paraeducators who support dysregulated students. Discipline will be explored through a trauma-informed lens, highlighting Social Emotional Learning (SEL) strategies that teach self-regulation and accountability.

Participants will reflect on discipline that is both kind and firm and learn how to support students through the three steps of co-regulation. The goal: compassionate, responsive practices that help students manage emotions and behavior while minimizing power struggles.

Participants will be able to

  • Explore 4 discipline styles.
  • Practice SEL strategies to enhance critical thinking and accountability.
  • Name the 3 steps for co-regulation.

P-3 Adult Social Emotional Learning: Enhancing Paraprofessional Well-Being (NEW)

Presenter

  • Dení Dayan, School Psychologist, Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP)

Intended Audience

Paraprofessionals

Time

1.5 hours

Format

In person

Summary

Being a paraprofessional is hard. The emotional load and nonstop pace take a toll. This workshop is about supporting the mental health and well-being of the adults on campus because when we feel better, we do better.

You'll learn what stress does to your brain and body, why we're wired to overreact (yes, really), and what you can do to bring more calm, patience, and resilience into your day. You'll also get some fun, practical tools to lower stress, and a better understanding of why people (yourself included) behave the way they do.

This is about putting your oxygen mask on first, so you can keep showing up in the ways that matter most.

Participants will be able to

  • Name 9 elements that promote resilience.
  • Explain the mind-body connection between stress and health outcomes.
  • Create a plan of wellbeing for yourself.

P-4 The Role of the Paraprofessional (New!)

Presenter

  • Tamar Bedoyan, M.A., Education Specialist

Intended Audience

General and Special Education Administrators, Program Specialists, Behavior Support Personnel, and Paraprofessionals

Time

2 to 3 hours

Format

Virtual or in person

Summary

What makes an effective Paraprofessional? This training is designed to empower paraprofessionals with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively support students in special day class settings. Participants will explore the critical role Paraprofessionals play in fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment.

Key Topics Covered:

  • Understanding Special Day Classes: Gain insights into the structure and purpose of special day classes.
  • Roles and Responsibilities: Learn about the specific duties and responsibilities of paraprofessionals in these settings.
  • Effective Collaboration: Discover strategies for working collaboratively with teachers, service providers, and families.
  • Behavior Management: Develop techniques for managing and supporting student behavior in a compassionate and effective manner.
  • Instructional Support: Learn how to provide targeted instructional support to meet the diverse needs of students.
  • Building Relationships: Understand the importance of building strong, supportive relationships with students to enhance their learning experience.

By the end of this training, paraprofessionals will be equipped with practical tools and strategies to support students in special day classes, ensuring they receive the individualized attention and care they need to succeed.

Participants will

  • Understand Special Day Classes: Explain the structure, purpose, and unique needs of students in special day classes.
  • Define Roles and Responsibilities: Identify key duties and responsibilities of Paraprofessionals.
  • Collaborate Effectively: Use strategies for effective teamwork with teachers, specialists, and families.
  • Manage Behavior: Apply compassionate and effective behavior management techniques.
  • Provide Instructional Support: Deliver targeted instructional support for diverse learning needs.
  • Build Strong Relationships: Foster supportive relationships to enhance student learning and well-being.