Paraprofessional vs. Substitute Teacher – what are the differences? Learn everything you need to know about the differences between a Paraprofessional and a Substitute Teacher.
If you are considering working in the field of education, you may be wondering what the difference is between a paraprofessional and a substitute teacher. While both roles involve working with students and helping to shape their educational experience, there are some key differences between the two positions. This article will explore the differences between paraprofessionals and substitute teachers, including the responsibilities, qualifications, and salary associated with each.
What is a Paraprofessional?
A paraprofessional is a person who provides support to professional staff, often in a school setting. Paraprofessionals often assist students with special needs, such as those with physical, emotional, or learning disabilities, or provide general support in classrooms. They may also provide clerical and administrative assistance to teachers, principals, and school counselors.
What is a Substitute Teacher?
A substitute teacher is an individual who is employed to temporarily take over the responsibilities of a regular teacher, usually in the event of the teacher’s absence due to illness, personal leave, or other reasons. The substitute teacher is typically responsible for teaching the same material as the regular teacher and maintaining classroom rules and procedures.
Paraprofessional vs. Substitute Teacher
Below we discuss the main differences between the job duties, job requirements, and work environment of a Paraprofessional vs. Substitute Teacher position.
Paraprofessional vs. Substitute Teacher Job Duties
The roles of a paraprofessional and a substitute teacher can be similar in some ways, but the two have distinct differences. Both paraprofessionals and substitute teachers can often be found to support teachers in the classroom, but their roles and responsibilities can differ significantly.
Paraprofessionals, also known as teacher assistants, are typically employed by schools to support teachers in the classroom. They are responsible for helping teachers plan and implement instruction, supervising students in the classroom, and providing support to students with special needs. Paraprofessionals may also be asked to assist with administrative tasks, such as taking attendance, grading papers, and helping with record-keeping. Paraprofessionals are expected to have a good understanding of the curriculum and be able to assist students in understanding the material.
A substitute teacher is an educator who is called upon to fill in for a teacher who is absent from the classroom. Substitute teachers are expected to be able to teach the lesson plans that the regular teacher leaves behind and to maintain classroom order and student discipline. They may also be asked to provide additional instruction and help students with their work. Substitute teachers typically do not have the same level of responsibility as permanent teachers and may not have the same opportunities to observe and assess student progress.
The difference in job duties
The primary difference between the roles of a paraprofessional and a substitute teacher is the degree of responsibility. Paraprofessionals are expected to have an in-depth knowledge of the curriculum and be able to provide support to the teacher in the classroom. Substitute teachers are expected to be able to teach the lesson plans that the regular teacher leaves behind. Still, they typically do not have the same opportunities to observe and assess student progress. Additionally, paraprofessionals typically have more opportunities to interact with students and build relationships with them.
Both paraprofessionals and substitute teachers play an important role in the classroom, and each position has its unique responsibilities and expectations. Paraprofessionals are expected to have a good understanding of the curriculum and be able to provide support to teachers in the classroom. In contrast, substitute teachers are expected to be able to teach the lesson plans that the regular teacher leaves behind.
Related: Paraprofessional vs. Teacher Aide – What’s The Difference?
Paraprofessional vs. Substitute Teacher Job Requirements
The job requirements of a paraprofessional and a substitute teacher are quite different. A paraprofessional is an assistant to a teacher and is responsible for assisting in the classroom. They are typically employed by the school or district and are often referred to as teaching assistants. On the other hand, a substitute teacher is hired on an as-needed basis to cover for a regular teacher absent for a given period of time.
Paraprofessionals are responsible for providing support to teachers and students in the classroom. This often involves helping students understand the material being taught, providing extra help during lessons, and helping to maintain order in the classroom. Most paraprofessionals are required to have at least a high school diploma or equivalent and may need to pass a basic skills test. In some cases, paraprofessionals may require a college degree or professional certification. Many states also require paraprofessionals to have completed a state-approved training program.
Substitute teachers are generally hired on an as-needed basis to cover for regular teachers who are absent. They are generally expected to be able to teach the same material as the regular teacher and maintain the same level of classroom management. Most states require that substitute teachers have at least a bachelor’s degree and a valid teaching license. In some cases, substitute teachers may be required to have completed a state-approved training program.
Both paraprofessionals and substitute teachers are important members of the school staff and can help to ensure that students receive the best education possible. While their job requirements are quite different, both are integral to the school’s success.
Paraprofessional vs. Substitute Teacher Work Environment
The role of a paraprofessional and a substitute teacher in a school setting can be similar in many ways, but there are also key differences between the two positions.
Paraprofessionals, or educational assistants, are typically employed by a school district to work in classrooms alongside teachers to provide academic and behavioral support to students. They may work with students in small groups or one-on-one, helping them to understand the material, complete assignments, and stay on task. Paraprofessionals may also provide more general support to the teacher and the classroom, including helping with clerical tasks, filing paperwork, and managing student data.
In contrast, substitute teachers are typically employed on an as-needed basis to fill in for an absent teacher on a short-term basis. Substitute teachers are responsible for teaching the same material that a regular teacher would. They may also be asked to manage the classroom and ensure students remain on task.
Work Environment
Regarding the work environment, paraprofessionals are typically part of the same school staff as regular teachers, and they may also have their own small office or workspace within the school. On the other hand, substitute teachers may be required to travel from school to school depending on the need, or they may work from home.
Regarding job security and benefits, paraprofessionals typically have a more stable job than substitute teachers, as the school district usually employs them for an extended period. Substitute teachers, however, may have more freedom regarding their schedules and the types of assignments they take on.
Overall, paraprofessionals and substitute teachers are both important roles in a school setting, and both can be rewarding jobs for the right person. Those interested in working in a school setting should consider the differences between the two positions and decide which job best fits their skills and lifestyle.
Paraprofessional vs. Substitute Teacher Skills
Several roles in today’s educational system are essential in providing students with the best learning experience possible. One of these roles is that of the paraprofessional and the substitute teacher. Although both are important for the success of a school, there are some key differences in the skills and duties of a paraprofessional versus a substitute teacher.
A paraprofessional works closely with teachers and students in the classroom to provide additional support and instruction. Paraprofessionals are usually trained in a specific area, such as special education, English as a second language (ESL), or other specialized subject matter. They are also responsible for providing individualized instruction and helping create a positive classroom environment.
In contrast, a substitute teacher is hired to fill in for another absent teacher. The duties of a substitute teacher can vary depending on the school’s needs, but they generally involve teaching classes, supervising students, and preparing lesson plans. Substitute teachers may also be asked to cover lunchroom and playground supervision duties.
Required skills
Although the roles of paraprofessionals and substitute teachers are similar in that they provide instructional support to students; there are some key differences in the skills and duties required for each position. Paraprofessionals must have a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter they are teaching and must be able to provide individualized instruction to students. They must also have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build strong relationships with teachers, students, and administrators.
On the other hand, substitute teachers must be able to quickly understand the material they are teaching and effectively communicate and manage classroom behaviors. They must also be able to create lesson plans and provide guidance to students without their regular teacher.
In conclusion, both paraprofessionals and substitute teachers are essential for providing students with the best learning experience possible. Although the roles of each position are similar in that they provide instructional support to students. there are some key differences in the skills and duties required for each position.
Related: Paraeducator vs. Paraprofessional: What are the differences?
Paraprofessional vs. Substitute Teacher Salary
If you’re a teacher looking to supplement your income or just break into the education field, you may consider working as a substitute teacher or a paraprofessional. Both positions offer the opportunity to work in a school setting, but the roles, requirements, and salaries vary greatly.
Paraprofessionals are often referred to as teacher’s assistants or instructional aides. They support teachers and students in the classroom, helping with instruction, providing additional help to students, and preparing materials. Paraprofessionals are usually expected to have some post-secondary education, such as an associate’s degree or equivalent experience. The average salary for a paraprofessional is around $12.00 per hour.
Substitute teachers fill in for absent teachers temporarily. They are expected to follow the lesson plans of the absent teachers, manage the classroom, and help students with their assignments. Substitute teachers must have a valid teaching certificate, bachelor’s degree, or equivalent experience. The average salary for a substitute teacher is around $14.00 per hour.
Overall, both positions provide an opportunity to work in a school setting and can be a great way to supplement a teacher’s regular income. Paraprofessionals are more likely to get hired quickly, requiring less experience and education. However, substitute teachers tend to make more money and can have the opportunity to work in a variety of schools and districts.
Related: Associate Teacher vs. Teacher – What’s The Difference?
