Running centers in a self-contained classroom takes teamwork, and your paraprofessionals are your biggest allies! When roles and responsibilities are clearly defined, centers can run like a dream. But without structure? It can quickly feel chaotic.
Let’s dive into strategies for effectively managing paraprofessionals during centers, and how the Simple Centers System can help.
1. Start with Clear Expectations
From day one, make sure everyone knows their role during centers. Clear communication is key to avoiding confusion.
- Provide a Written Schedule: Create a visual schedule that outlines who is responsible for each station.
- Define Roles: Explain tasks, such as assisting with academic activities, managing behaviors, or prepping materials.
- Hold Regular Check-Ins: A quick weekly meeting ensures everyone is on the same page and allows for feedback.
- Have a Paraprofessional Binder: Each staff member should have a binder that includes student IEP important information, behavior plans, schedules and more all in one place.
Learn more about creating a paraprofessional binder in this blog post.
2. Match Strengths to Stations
Your paraprofessionals bring unique strengths to the classroom—use them to your advantage!
- Assign stations that align with their skills, such as a math station for someone who’s confident with numbers or a sensory station for someone great at calming students.
- Rotate assignments occasionally to keep things fresh and give everyone a chance to grow.
- Ask for input about what stations they feel most comfortable at, and if they even want to switch assignments throughout the year or want to hone in on their center and make it their own!
Learn more about creating predictable routines for centers here.
3. Use the Simple Centers System for Seamless Collaboration
The Simple Centers System makes managing paraprofessionals easier by providing:
- Clear Instructions: Each center comes with detailed plans so paraprofessionals know exactly what to do.
- Consistent Routines: When students know the routine, paraprofessionals can focus on supporting learning instead of managing confusion.
- Adaptable Materials: Easily tailor activities to fit the needs of your students and the strengths of your staff.
Join the waitlist to be notified first when this brand new course opens enrollment.
4. Foster Open Communication
A team that communicates well works well. Encourage your paraprofessionals to share ideas, ask questions, and voice concerns.
- Use a group chat or communication log to stay connected.
- Have a sticky note system for when questions come up but they can’t ask!
- Praise their hard work often—it goes a long way in building a strong team!
Learn more about paraprofessional training here.
We also have a whole module on paraprofessionals in the course Simple Self-Contained Setup 101® !
5. Build Independence with Students
One of your goals during centers should be to increase student independence. With the right support from paraprofessionals, students can take ownership of their learning.
- Train staff to gradually release responsibility to students.
- Encourage staff to take data, give them a role to buy into the process!
- Celebrate student successes together as a team!
The Simple Centers System course isn’t just for teachers—it’s a tool for your whole team. By creating clear roles, consistent routines, and open communication, you’ll empower both your paraprofessionals and your students to thrive during centers.
Ready to streamline your centers and make the most of your team? Learn more about the Simple Centers System and see how it can transform your classroom!
