This study was designed to gather current data relating to paraprofessionals in California who have direct involvement with instructional programs. This information was gathered from school districts, principals, and teachers. The data included the following general subject areas: (1) number of school districts using paraprofessionals and school district policies relating to them; (2) important reasons for the introduction of paraprofessionals into the school instructional program, (3) number of paraprofessionals in relation to full time staff members; (4) classroom activities which involve paraprofessionals; (5) effect of paraprofessionals on class size and learning; (6) level of acceptance by professional staff; (7) recent and future trends in use of paraprofessionals; (8) paraprofessional salaries; (9) paraprofessional organizational affiliations; and (10) advantages and problems as a result of the use of paraprofessionals in the classroom. From the data obta obtained in this study, it was concluded that almost 100 percent of all districts are currently using paraprofessionals, and that there has been a steady increase in the numbers of paraprofessionals used over the past several years. Teachers, principals, and district administrators surveyed expressed a desire for increased use of paraprofessionals in the future, and the majority of teachers believed paraprofessionals have a positive effect on student learning. The need for in-service training of paraprofessionals was also expressed by participants in the study. (BD)