paraprofessional

noun

para·​pro·​fes·​sion·​al ˌper-ə--prə-ˈfesh-nəl 

-ˈfe-shə-nᵊl,

ˌpa-rə-

: a trained aide who assists a professional person (such as a teacher or doctor)

paraprofessional adjective

Examples of paraprofessional in a Sentence

There is at least one paraprofessional in each classroom.

Recent Examples on the Web

Nearly 85% of paraprofessionals in Massachusetts made $30,000 or less last year, way below what teachers earn, according to the Globe. Between the lines: The unions' show of force isn't localized to just the three striking towns. —Mike Deehan, Axios, 25 Nov. 2024

Her school is planning to launch an apprenticeship program to give easier and more cost-effective training to high schoolers interested in teaching special education and paraprofessionals working in classrooms. —Kayla Jimenez, USA TODAY, 14 Nov. 2024

Investigators confirmed that Wheeler was working as a paraprofessional with Fairfield Public Schools and immediately notified administrators. —Kellie Love, Hartford Courant, 10 Aug. 2024

Teachers get help from 10 paraprofessionals who float around the school's 17 classrooms. —Rory Linnane, Journal Sentinel, 25 Mar. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1962, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

paraprofessional

noun

para·​pro·​fes·​sion·​al ˌpar-ə-prə-ˈfesh-nəl 

-ən-ᵊl

: a person trained to assist a professional person (as a teacher or doctor)

paraprofessional adjective

Medical Definition

paraprofessional

noun

para·​pro·​fes·​sion·​al -prə-ˈfesh-nəl, -ən-ᵊl 

: a trained aide who assists a professional person (as a doctor)

paraprofessional adjective