The Minneapolis paraprofessional program was developed with funds from Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Act of 1965. Paraprofessionals are now an integral part of the Minneapolis Public Schools. They have contributed much to the education of students and staff and to good school-community relations. The New Careers and Career Opportunities Programs have provided many low-income paraprofessionals with additional educational opportunities. Every effort has been made to provide training for both specific job assignments and to meet the needs of individual paraprofessionals. Opportunities range from basic education to academic courses and are offered at community schools and college campuses. While it is important that a paraprofessional be well trained, it is equally important that the supervising teacher or other staff member be trained in the effective utilization of the paraprofessionals. Orientation is given to first year teachers and teachers who are new to a school that uses paraprofessionals. Paraprofessionals do not make a teacher's job easier. The duties a paraprofessional assumes release the teacher to initiate activities at a higher and broader professional level. As a result, the teacher and paraprofessional team provide a better learning environment. The paraprofessional in education is a means through which schools and communities can work together. (RC)