Episode #9
More Capable Than You Think: A Paraprofessional’s View of Autism in the Classroom
Buzzsprout Description What does support for an autistic student actually look like inside the classroom? In this episode of Autism Awareness , paraprofessional Jaya Shelton takes listeners inside her day-to-day work supporting students with autism and other disabilities in the school system. Jaya explains that the ultimate goal of a paraprofessional is not to remain beside a student forever—it is to help that student become as independent, confident, and capable of self-advocacy as possible . From helping students understand classroom concepts and social cues to working toward IEP and behavior-plan goals, paraprofessionals often become an important part of a student's educational journey. But Jaya emphasizes that support should always move toward teaching students how to communicate their needs, ask for help, interact with peers, and navigate the classroom more independently. She also challenges several common misconceptions about autism, including the belief that autistic students are unable to learn or that difficult behaviors simply require more discipline. Jaya explains that autistic students often communicate in different ways—through speech, gestures, ASL, communication devices, or behavior itself. What may appear to be “bad behavior” can sometimes be a student trying to communicate overwhelm, frustration, discomfort, or an unmet need. The conversation also explores the importance of early identification and access to support. Jaya discusses how fear of labeling a child can sometimes prevent families from pursuing an evaluation, potentially delaying access to resources that could help that student succeed. Throughout the episode, Jaya shares encouraging success stories from her own classroom experience, including students making major gains in communication, behavior, memory, academics, and social interaction. She also explains why life skills are such an important part of special education . Students may work on everything from brushing their teeth and folding clothes to sewing, preparing simple food, using manners, and learning how to ask for what they need. For Jaya, the goal is bigger than succeeding in school. It is helping every student develop the skills needed for as much independence as possible—because no one knows what that child's future might hold. Drawing from her own childhood experiences of being diagnosed but not receiving the support she needed, Jaya closes with a simple message for parents, educators, peers, and communities: Be kind. Be patient. Be willing to look beyond what you see on the surface. A person's struggles may not always be visible, but the right support, understanding, and encouragement can make an enormous difference. Listen to this episode of Autism Awareness for an inside look at special education, paraprofessional support, autism in the classroom, communication, life skills, behavior, independence, and the incredible potential of students when someone believes in what they can become.
