Under the direction of a teacher, support staff may work directly with students individually or in small groups to deliver activities that reinforce
and advance the educational program. They also provide teachers with advice and suggestions. For example, they may assess how well students are functioning, administer tests (but not make judgments on test results), observe and document behaviours as students participate in learning activities and, where appropriate, help plan the educational program. Together with teachers, educational assistants enrich the educational program by helping students gain the knowledge and skills they need to function in the classroom, the school and the larger community.
In making decisions about the educational program, teachers count on input from other professionals, parents and classroom-based educational assistants. Professionals such as psychologists, speech therapists and physical therapists draw on their expertise to provide teachers with specialised reports and suggestions about particular students. Teachers use this input to develop and implement educational programs for which they are ultimately responsible
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