Paraeducators' Symposium

Hello AACPS Colleagues,

We’re excited to open the Call for Presenters for the Paraeducator Symposium 2026: From Support to Advocacy – Listening, Learning, Leading, taking place on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at Severna Park High School & Severna Park Middle School.

We invite paraeducators, educators, related service providers, school leaders, and community partners to share practical strategies, tools, and real-world experiences that strengthen paraeducator practice and student outcomes.

 

Symposium Objectives

• Explore strategies and tools that build student skills, confidence, and independence—empowering advocacy for themselves and others.

• Strengthen paraeducators’ capacity to remain regulated during moments of student dysregulation to provide effective support.

• Embrace paraeducators as leaders who cultivate advocacy, empathy, and belonging across school communities.

We welcome proposals that address topics such as:

• Practical tools and routines that promote student growth, independence, and self-advocacy

• Co-regulation and self-regulation strategies during challenging moments

• Collaboration, leadership, and equity-centered practices that build inclusive classrooms and schools

Key details

• Event Date: Tuesday, January 20, 2026

• Location: Severna Park HS & MS

• Proposal Deadline: October 31, 2025

• How to Apply: Submit your session proposal here: https://forms.office.com/r/jrAq4p7hzP

• Questions? Contact Michelle Hoffacker at mhoffacker@aacps.org

Thank you for helping us design a powerful day of learning that celebrates and elevates our paraeducators. We look forward to your proposals!

 

With appreciation,
Division of Specialized Instruction & Early Intervention Services
Anne Arundel County Public Schools