This document is a guidebook developed by the Merrimack Education Center from actual experience in a pilot training program for paraprofessionals. It is stated that the purpose of the guidebook is to introduce to training facilitators some of the essential elements in preservice training. Section 1 justifies the existence of instructional and clerical aides and outlines some current needs in public schools which can be met by their increased use. A second section describes the recruitment and selection of trainees (interested individuals with time on their hands) and the implementation of the Merrimack program itself. Appendixes provide a workshop outline, suggestions for gaining public acceptance, training materials, related bibliographies, and questionnaires. Four tables of data are also presented. (JA/JB)