What does a paraprofessional really do — and why are they so essential to the classroom? In this episode, Rayleen Laloi explores the role through the story of her mother, Colleen Chance, who works one-on-one with students at P.S. 770 in Brooklyn. From the postwar roots of the job to its impact today, Rayleen uncovers how paras have become a cornerstone of inclusive education in New York City.

Through her mother’s experiences, she discovers the patience, care, and skill the work demands, from helping students communicate to celebrating their smallest victories. It’s a look at the people who make learning possible — and a reminder of how essential paras are to the classrooms that need them most.

Rayleen Laloi is a junior at the Brooklyn Institute for Liberal Arts. She’s a regular at Algebra 2 homework help and the arts and crafts club. When she’s not scrolling through social media (for longer than she probably should), Rayleen loves listening to music, watching video essays, anime, and reading books.

The Summer Youth Podcast Academy is The Bell’s immersive beginner podcasting workshop for New York City public school students. This year’s academy was made possible by support from the Spotify Studios Union.