The front page of the summary document assumes they have professional growth goals. This review frequently provides an opportunity to encourage professional growth and to identify areas where further in-service is desired. In several ways the instrument contributes to a better education for students. First, the guaranteed opportunity soon after a new position is started to discuss how things are going provides the opportunity to address misunderstandings and to clarify roles soon after a position is begun. The items on the various questionnaires are designed to identify potentially problematic areas which, if subsequently addressed appropriately, will clearly improve services to students.
Evaluation needs to be relevant and meaningful in order to be constructive.
Topics for further in-service have been targeted from these discussions as well as paraprofessional interest in other career opportunities explored. The satisfaction of everyone who uses the evaluation instrument has contributed greatly to its success. The content that the instrument provides for the review conference leads to meaningful and true dialogue regarding important issues to paraprofessionals. About Pockets of Excellence Pockets of Excellence identifies schools that are exemplary in use of effective strategies or practices for supporting, training, supervising, planning with, and retaining paraprofessionals. Nominations are solicited yearly from students, family members, educators, and organizations.