Professional Development
Off: (973)405-6262 / Fax: (973)405-6555
Jil DeMasi - Director
Shebra Jones - Specialist
The Essex Regional Educational Services Commission (ERESC) provides comprehensive paraprofessional services to school districts throughout Essex County and beyond. ERESC paraprofessionals are considered to be important providers of support services in all schools. The role of the ERESC paraprofessional (para) is to provide support and assistance to students and the classroom teacher. Paraprofessionals are employed to improve and maintain an educational environment conducive to learning. ERESC paras provide services to the school district under the direction of the ERESC administration in partnership with the school district personnel. Paras take direction from the classroom teacher and building principal to which they are assigned and are supervised by the ERESC administration.
ERESC paras work to provide instructional and/or non-instructional services as:
Special Education paras
ESL paras
Pre-K & Kindergarten classroom paras
Para support is determined by the individual needs of the student or class. Paras can provide support to one student, small groups of students or a classroom. Therefore, it is essential that the classroom teacher meet with the para to discuss pertinent test results, goals and objectives, recommended strategies, etc. Frequent communication between the classroom teacher and para is important to provide clear expectations and direction that will positively impact student success.
Supervision is conducted by administrators who monitor and support paraprofessionals in their field experience by conducting informal and formal visits. Visits invite dialogue, collaboration and communication among all partners.
A para can have a profound and significant influence on student performance. When paraprofessionals work as a team with the classroom teacher, positive changes can result in student achievement and behavior. ERESC paras are professionals who love children. The mission of the ERESC para is to provide optimum services that respond to the needs of the total child. ERESC paraprofessionals are valued as members of the educational team who endeavor each day to make a difference in the lives of their students.
Requirements
*Minimum 60 College credits OR Paraprofessional Assessment Exam Certificate
Email or mail a copy of your transcript or Paraprofessional Assessment Exam Certificate, letter of interest, and resume to our HR department.