U-TTEC Lab Program
Supporting Students with Care: A Paraprofessional Series on Relationships, Trauma, Behavior, and Wellbeing

 

Paraprofessionals play a vital role in shaping positive and supportive learning environments for students. This one-day program is designed to provide practical tools and insights to enhance their impact in the classroom. Through discussions on building meaningful relationships, trauma-informed management, recognizing and addressing student needs, and prioritizing self-care, participants will gain valuable strategies to support both students and themselves. Together, we will explore ways to foster inclusive, responsive, and compassionate educational spaces that empower every learner to thrive.

Program Goals:

  • Enhance Student Support and Engagement

Equip paraprofessionals with practical strategies to build positive relationships with students and families, foster inclusive learning environments, and respond effectively to diverse student needs.

  • Strengthen Trauma-Informed and Behavior Management Practices

Provide tools for recognizing and addressing trauma, navigating suicide ideation, and applying functional behavior strategies to support student success in a safe and structured classroom setting.

  • Promote Paraprofessional Wellbeing and Professional Growth

Emphasize the importance of educator self-care, stress management, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance to sustain long-term effectiveness and resilience in their roles.

 

Course Format:

The program will include in-person interactive sessions on the following topics and networking opportunities to connect with other paraprofessionals and school mental and behavioral health professionals:

  • Building Positive Relationships with Students and Families
  • Trauma-Informed Classroom Management
  • Recognizing and Navigating Suicide Ideation in Children
  • Behavior Basics: Thinking Functionally
  • Understanding, Honoring, and Supporting Unique Student Differences and Backgrounds
  • Educator Self-Care and Wellbeing

 

Class-Size: Unlimited
Date: June 24th, 2025
Time: 8-5pm
Modality: In-person
Location:
Cost: $50 per person

 

Questions? Please email Ms. Kristen Lindsay, kristen.lindsay@utah.edu.