Empowering Paraeducators Through Evidence-Based Practices for Autistic Students

This session presents findings from a study examining the effectiveness of an online professional development program designed to increase paraeducator knowledge, fidelity, and use of evidence-based practices supporting autistic students. Educators will learn about evidence-based practices through case studies, with practical tools for improving paraeducator effectiveness and student outcomes.Participants will be able to: 1. Identify foundational evidence-based practices designed to support autistic students and describe how each can be implemented by paraeducators. 2. Apply practical strategies for integrating flexible, research-informed professional development into their school or district to better support paraeducator effectiveness. 3. Identify resources and materials to support use of evidence-based practices with autistic students.