Collaborating with Paraprofessionals & Support Staff in Adapted PE

If you're teaching Adapted Physical Education, you're not doing it alone—and that’s a good thing. Paraprofessionals and support staff are essential teammates who help make inclusive, meaningful physical education possible for all students.

But building an effective team doesn’t happen by accident. It takes intentional communication, clear roles, and a shared purpose.

In this post, I’ll share practical strategies I use to foster collaboration and build a strong, supportive team-first culture in Adapted P.E.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Why Teamwork Matters in Adapted PE

Paraprofessionals often know your students deeply—they may work with them across multiple settings throughout the day. Their insight, support, and presence during P.E. class can make or break a lesson.

When paraprofessionals are empowered, included, and informed, they don’t just assist… they elevate the learning experience.

🤝 Top Strategies for Collaborating with Paraprofessionals & Staff

1. Set Clear Roles and Expectations from Day One

Ambiguity creates frustration—for both teachers and paras. Start the year by outlining what each staff member’s role looks like during warm-ups, transitions, direct instruction, small groups, and behavior support.

💡 Tip: Discuss how paraprofessionals can help with prompting, modeling, and documenting progress—without feeling like they have to “run the class.”

2. Use a Visual “Roles Chart”

Create a simple chart that outlines each staff member’s role during key parts of the lesson. Post it on the wall or attach it to a clipboard. Visual cues make it easier to stay on track—and help substitute staff jump in smoothly.

💡 Example:

• Arrival: Para 1 greets students and helps with visuals

• Warm-Up: Para 2 models exercises with a student

• Stations: Para 1 at Scooter Station, Para 2 at Ball Toss

• Cool-Down: All paras help with visual schedules or hand-over-hand assistance

3. Communicate Regularly & Celebrate Teamwork

Take five minutes before or after class to connect. A quick “What worked today?” or “Any strategies that helped Johnny regulate?” goes a long way. If schedules don’t allow, try a shared notebook or daily check-in sheet.

💡 Tip: Don’t forget to celebrate small wins! A thank-you note, a group photo, or a “Team Shout-Out” board in your equipment room can boost morale and remind everyone they matter.

📥 Free Download: Staff Roles & Communication Chart

Want a visual chart you can customize and use with your team? Download the Free Roles & Communication Chart

📘 Learn More:

For even more tools to build your team, manage communication, and align roles, check out: The Ultimate Adapted P.E. Manual. This chapter includes editable templates, daily check-in sheets, and training tips that will set your team up for success.

🔍 Keywords:

Paraprofessionals, teamwork, adapted physical education, inclusive PE, collaboration, support staff roles

💬 What Works for Your Team?

I’d love to hear your tips! What’s helped your team run smoothly? Drop a comment below or tag me in your classroom setup @easy.adapted.pe on Instagram.