Paraprofessional Appreciation Day - April
Wed, Apr 2, 2025

Paraprofessional Appreciation Day

Paraprofessional Appreciation Day is an American holiday dedicated to paraprofessionals. These are professionals in various fields who serve as assistants. The holiday is celebrated annually on the first Wednesday of April.

History

The exact history of Paraprofessional Appreciation Day is not well documented. However, many researchers believe that it originated in Missouri, where the governor decided to celebrate the day as a token of appreciation for paraprofessional educators. The exact dates of the event’s origin vary, making it difficult to establish a single time for the holiday’s inception.

Paraprofessionals first appeared in educational institutions in the 1960s. They emerged through President Lyndon B. Johnson’s Great Society program, which aimed to alleviate poverty in the country. Initially, most paraprofessionals were women who served as teaching assistants in schools. Over time, they gained experience and could be officially employed. Today, paraprofessionals are often college graduates who seek additional experience before fully entering the workforce.

Interesting Facts

  • In addition to education, paraprofessionals are commonly found in the legal field. Paralegals, for instance, emerged in 1967 with the approval of the American Bar Association (ABA), and the first paralegal committee was formed the following year.
  • President Johnson’s initiative was known as the Great Society program.
  • Paraprofessionals can also be found in medicine, technical professions, law enforcement, and other fields.

How to Celebrate

Congratulate family and friends who work as paraprofessionals in any field. Take the opportunity to learn more about the specifics of their work.

Spread the word about the holiday on social media. Ask others if they believe paraprofessionals are necessary and valuable in their respective fields.

When is Paraprofessional Appreciation Day in 2025?

Paraprofessional Appreciation Day is observed every year on the first Wednesday in April.

Observations

Weekday Month Day Year
Wednesday April 2 2025
Wednesday April 1 2026
Wednesday April 7 2027
Wednesday April 5 2028
Wednesday April 4 2029