TITLE Why Paraprofessionals in Reading?

Although reading paraprofessionals are not to be considered as teacher substitutes, (they are frequently used in routine and mechanical matters, freeing the regular teacher for moreindividualizedl instruction and lesson planning), they can make significant contributions in classroom instruction, student motivation, and public relations. Research has shcwn that by giving proper training to paraprofessionals (e.g., use of the Peabody Language Development Kit), more positive results in students ' readingprogress--increased attention span, gains in readiness, and increased word recognition--are achieved. Proper training also makes possible the use of educable mentally retarded adolescents, juveniledelinquents, senior citizens, and Viet Nam veterans asparaprofessionals. Studies further show that when the behavior of paraprofessionals is programmed, they are successful not only indevelopmental reading programs, but also as remedial reading assistants. Furthermore, use of paraprofessionals fosters positive community attitudes and increased corn=unity involvercent. (Append-ed are references and a sample of reading students ° attitudes toward paraprofessionals.) (HS) "PERMISSION TO REPRODUCE MI