Work

Unheard Voices: Teacher Assistants’ Views and Experiences of Safety in Their Schools

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Teacher assistants (e.g. paraprofessionals, instructional aides, and classroom assistants) work under teacher supervision to support students. In this study, we explored teacher assistants’ (TAs; N = 448) perceptions of school violence, drawing on qualitative data from a larger national survey of school personnel. Participants expressed a lack of support, accountability, and resources from administration and other school staff, underscoring the need for more inclusive and comprehensive strategies to improve safety. Participants recommended both evidence-informed interventions (e.g. restorative practices, positive behavior interventions) and stricter, punitive approaches (e.g. zero-tolerance policies, school hardening). Findings suggest that TAs’ views relate to experiences of victimization and a need for more training around school safety issues.

Source: Journal of School Violence

DOI: 10.1080/15388220.2026.2720150