Developing as a Professional: A Guide for Contemporary Paraprofessionals provides a general orientation to the role of paraprofessional or teacher s aid. This book provides strategies for working with students receiving special education services, and communication and mentoring suggestions for those working directly with paraprofessionals. The book addresses the specific needs of paraprofessionals working in classrooms with English language learners, and each chapter includes a segment of Spanish translations for native Spanish speakers. The real world voices of two paraprofessionals, Tracy and Maria, provide paraprofessionals with perspectives much like their own. Current issues in education, policy, and practice are discussed through the stories of these individuals, and their journey invites readers into the education profession using an approachable, realistic format. A key component of each chapter includes assignment linkages to the PRAXIS standards with a section highlighting artifacts paraprofessionals might generate for their portfolios. The book also provides preview questions and vocabulary checklists as well as worksheets and activity ideas. Now more than ever, those employing paraprofessionals are in need of professional development resources that are current and reflect the changing work responsibilities of paraprofessionals and the communities in which they work. Developing as a Professional: A Guide for Contemporary Paraprofessionals is designed to meet the needs of those working as paraprofessionals as well as those employing and mentoring them.