paraprofessional

[ par-uh-pruh-fesh-uh-nl ]

noun

1. a person trained to assist a doctor, lawyer, teacher, or other professional, but not licensed to practice in the profession.

adjective

1. of or relating to paraprofessionals.

Word History and Origins

Origin of paraprofessional¹

First recorded in 1965–70; para- ¹ + professional

Example Sentences

The other was a close friend, Stefanie Robinson, a paraprofessional who worked with students with severe disabilities, including those requiring help with feeding and diapering.

From Salon

Ramming, director of Advancing Modoc, a nonprofit that works to increase educational opportunities in the region, said plenty of locals, including paraprofessionals already working in classrooms, would love to become credentialed teachers.

From Los Angeles Times

Indeed, they may not be seen by a doctor at all but by a paraprofessional — a nurse practitioner or a physician assistant, for instance — who works under the doctor’s license.

From Seattle Times

One of the reasons for the increase: More paraprofessionals — also known as instructional assistants — are being hired to assist special education students and early English learners.

From Seattle Times

I was 22 and working as a paraprofessional at an elementary school in Boise, Idaho, earning $9 an hour.

From New York Times

Related Words

• apprentice
• attendant
• collaborator
• companion
• servant
• temp
• temporary worker