Resource Industry: Schools

Lesson planning might not be the flashiest part of teaching, but it’s one of the most important. Whether you’re a first-year teacher or a seasoned educator stepping into a new subject or grade level, having a solid plan sets the tone for a successful classroom experience.

In this Soliant guide, learn top tips from educators on how to create great lesson plans that aren’t just about what to teach, but how to teach it in a way that empowers your students.

What is the Objective of a Lesson Plan?

A lesson plan is a structured outline that guides educators through the teaching of a specific topic or concept. It covers what will be taught, how it will be delivered, and how success will be measured during a class session.

The primary objective of a lesson plan is to organize instruction in a way that promotes effective learning. It allows teachers to:

• Set clear learning objectives for students.
• Outline the content and activities needed to achieve those objectives.
• Plan assessments to measure student understanding.
• Ensure differentiation so that all learners, regardless of ability, can engage with and access the material.
• Manage class time efficiently.

Step-By-Step Guide to Creating a Lesson Plan

A well-crafted lesson plan should act as your roadmap for meeting curriculum standards, diverse student needs, and student learning goals. Here are the steps for how to create one:

Every lesson should include a way to assess if the objective was met. This doesn’t always mean a test—it can also look like quick quizzes, a Kahoot game, or a short writing assignment.

1. Define Your Learning Objectives

Start with the end in mind. What should students know, understand, or be able to do by the end of the lesson? Use measurable learning objectives that align with your state standards or district curriculum.

2. Consider Your Students

Tailor your lesson to your students’ ages, learning styles, IEP needs, and cultural backgrounds. Are there English language learners in your class? Students with accommodations? Consider how to differentiate instruction so every student can access the content.

3. Choose Your Materials & Resources

Gather everything you need to teach the lesson, such as textbooks or reading materials, technology tools, hands-on supplies, and printouts or worksheets.

4. Plan Your Introduction (The Hook)

Start strong with an engaging hook that sparks curiosity from your students. This might be a question, a short story, a quick video, or a class poll.

5. Outline the Main Instruction

This is where the bulk of learning happens. Depending on your teaching style, grade level, and subject, this could include lectures, class discussions or group work, or problem-solving activities.

6. Assess Understanding

Every lesson should include a way to assess if the objective was met. This doesn’t always mean a test—it can also look like quick quizzes, a Kahoot game, or a short writing assignment.

7. Reflect & Revise

After teaching the lesson, take a few minutes to reflect on what worked, what could be improved, and if your students met the learning goals. These insights are extremely valuable for adjusting future lessons to meet your students’ learning needs.

Sample Lesson Plan Template

Here’s a quick template of a lesson plan outline that you can use as a guide when creating one:

Grade Level/Subject:
Date:
Lesson Title:
Objective:
Standards:
Materials Needed:
Introduction (Hook):
Direct Instruction:
Guided Practice:
Independent Practice:
Assessment:
Differentiation:
Closing:
Reflection Notes (post-lesson):

Lesson Planning & Beyond: Explore More Resources for Educators

Whether you’re an experienced educator or just starting out on your path to teaching, Soliant has a variety of education career resources to support your journey. Find expert guides on crafting resumes, acceptable behavior in the classroom, school therapy programs, assistive technology in the classroom, and more!

Looking for your next school role? At Soliant, we connect passionate professionals to rewarding school opportunities nationwide. Explore openings today, including roles for paraprofessionals, general education teachers, special education teachers, teachers of the deaf and hard of hearing, and more.

If you’re passionate about helping kids thrive emotionally, socially, and academically, a career as a school psychologist might be right for you. These school professionals help students navigate challenges, support teachers and families, and make school a safe and inclusive place to grow.

Whether you’re just starting to explore career options or ready to map out your next steps, this Soliant guide breaks down exactly what it takes to become a school psychologist.

How Long Does It Take to Become a School Psychologist?

Becoming a school psychologist generally takes 6 to 7 years, and the requirements are:

1. Bachelor’s Degree – 4 years
2. Specialist-Level Graduate Program (Ed.S.) – 2 to 3 years
3. Licensure/Certification – Often completed alongside or immediately after your Ed.S. program.

Some professionals may pursue a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.), which can extend the timeline significantly, but it’s not required for most school psychologist roles.

Become a School Psychologist: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Bachelor’s Degree

The first step to becoming a school psychologist is to earn a bachelor’s degree. While psychology is the most common major, related fields such as education, social work, child development, or sociology can also set a strong foundation.

Step 2: Enroll in a Graduate Program in School Psychology

Unlike clinical psychologists, school psychologists typically complete a specialist-level program (Ed.S.), which is a post-master’s program that takes about 3 years, including a year-long internship. However, candidates can still choose to pursue a master’s degree followed by a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) to become a school psychologist.

Be sure to look for programs approved by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) so that your education meets national standards and sets you up for certification later.

Step 3: Complete a Supervised Internship

During the final year of your graduate program, you’ll complete a 1,200-hour supervised internship, typically in a K-12 school setting. This real-world experience is where you’ll learn to apply everything you’ve studied to support students with learning challenges, behavioral issues, emotional needs, and more.

This internship experience is what bridges you from student to practitioner. You’ll observe meetings, conduct assessments, and begin to shape your own approach as a future school psychologist.

Step 4: Get Certified and Licensed

Most states require that school psychologists be certified by their state’s department of education. Requirements may vary, but commonly include:

• Completion of a NASP-approved graduate program
• A passing score on the Praxis School Psychologist Exam
• Submission of internship verification and transcripts

In some cases, you may also need to obtain a state psychology license, especially if you plan to work outside the school system or in private practice.

Step 5: Apply for School Psychologist Positions

Once you’re licensed and certified, it’s time to start job hunting! School psychologists are in demand across the U.S., especially in rural and underserved communities. Whether you’re looking for a traditional school-based role or want the flexibility of teletherapy, there are options for every lifestyle.

For example, Soliant offers both remote and in-person school psychologist opportunities, connecting passionate professionals like you to the students who need you most.

Start Your Journey & Become a School Psychologist

Becoming a school psychologist takes time, dedication, and heart, but the rewards are immeasurable. You’ll be the steady support for students facing some of life’s hardest challenges and a trusted guide helping them thrive.

Explore school psychologist opportunities with Soliant today. Whether you’re finishing your program or looking for your next adventure, we’re here to help you find your perfect fit!

Looking for more school psychologist career insights? Explore Soliant’s additional education career resources here, including online resources for school psychologists, strategies for working with kids, and more!

Helping students improve mobility and strength is incredibly rewarding for school-based physical therapists. It is crucial for PTs to stay on top of documentation so they can continue to make an impact. From IEPs to daily progress logs, this paperwork is vital in ensuring services are appropriate, legally compliant, and tailored to each student’s needs.

Whether you’re a physical therapist working in a school or hoping to land a role in one soon, this Soliant guide will help cover what exactly school PTs need to keep track of.

Physical Therapy Paperwork & Documentation for School PTs

1. IEP (Individualized Education Program) Documentation

One of the most important responsibilities for school-based PTs is developing and maintaining the student’s IEP. This includes:

• Initial evaluations to determine eligibility for PT services
• Written input for the IEP team, including insights on physical performance and recommendations
• Measurable goals aligned with the student’s academic success
• Service logs that record how much therapy a student receives, in what setting, and for what purpose

2. Progress Notes & Treatment Logs

Like in a clinical setting, school PTs must document ongoing treatment and student responses. This typically includes:

• Daily or weekly treatment notes that describe the therapy session, student participation, interventions used, and outcomes
• Progress summaries to show if the student is making gains toward IEP goals
• Attendance records and explanations for missed sessions

3. Evaluation Reports

Evaluation reports are shared with IEP teams, parents, and administrators and are often the foundation for determining if a student qualifies for school-based PT. Whenever a student is referred for a physical therapy evaluation, PTs document:

• Observations in various school settings (e.g., classroom, playground)
• Standardized assessments and scores (if used)
• Clinical reasoning for recommendations
• Eligibility decisions based on federal and state guidelines

4. Parent & Teacher Communication Logs

Because physical therapists frequently consult with teachers and families, many districts require them to keep documentation of communication. These records might include parent contact (calls, emails, or meetings), teacher consultations, and recommendations shared for classroom strategies or home practice.

5. Annual Reviews

For students who continue receiving services year after year, school-based PTs participate in annual IEP reviews, providing updated goals and performance data. Similarly, they may contribute to reevaluations, which may require updated assessments and written justifications for continued service.

Learn More About School Physical Therapy Careers

Documentation is key to advocating for students, collaborating with teams, and tracking the impact of school-based physical therapy. While it can feel like a lot at times, strong paperwork helps protect students, support families, and uphold the value of school-based physical therapy.

Looking for your next school PT role? At Soliant, we work with passionate school physical therapists nationwide, connecting them to opportunities in education where they can thrive, including travel PT roles. Explore school-based PT openings with Soliant here today! Looking for more insights on school physical therapy careers? Explore Soliant’s education career resources here, including guides on the skills employers seek in school PTs, different therapy tools, like yoga and games, and more!

The Role of School Therapists: Supporting Students’ Mental, Emotional, & Academic Growth

School therapists play an important role in school communities by helping students feel their best both inside and outside of the classroom. From one-on-one sessions to group counseling and teaming up with teachers, they’re there to support students’ mental health, emotions, and learning. Simply put, they help create a safe, caring space where kids can grow and thrive.

But what exactly does a school therapist do, and why are they so important? In this guide, Soliant career experts explore the role of a school therapist and how they contribute to the overall development of students.

What is a School Therapist?

A school therapist is much more than just a mental health professional; they’re a trusted guide, a listening ear, and a steady source of support for students navigating everything from school stress to life’s tougher moments. The primary role of school therapists is to help students thrive emotionally, socially, and academically.

These mental health professionals work with kids of all ages, tackling issues like anxiety, depression, behavior challenges, academic pressure, and trauma. But their impact goes far beyond one-on-one sessions. School therapists team up with teachers, parents, and school staff to create a supportive environment where every student feels seen, heard, and empowered to succeed.

What Does a School Therapist Do?

The job of a school therapist is diverse and encompasses various duties depending on the population they work with, their students’ needs, and the school’s resources. However, below are some of the general responsibilities school therapists or school mental health professionals might have:

• Providing Individual Therapy: Meet one-on-one with students to help them manage stress, process emotions, and cope with challenges like bullying or family issues.
• Conducting Group Counseling: Lead group sessions where students facing similar struggles, like anxiety, grief, or big life changes, can connect and support one another.
• Supporting Behavioral or Academic Challenges: Work with teachers and staff to address behavior issues and help students meet their academic goals.
• Crisis Intervention and Support: During crises, therapists offer immediate support, provide counseling, and connect students with additional resources as needed.
• Promoting Mental Health Awareness: Reduce stigma and encourage students to prioritize their mental health through workshops, school-wide programs, and more.

Why Are School Therapists Important?

School therapists play a powerful role in shaping the lives of students, not just academically, but emotionally and socially as well. While they’re there when a student feels overwhelmed, anxious, or simply needs someone to talk to, one particularly significant benefit of school therapists in schools is how they can help prevent bigger mental health issues in the future. School therapists can help identify mental health issues early and give all students the tools they need to cope with the unique challenges they’re facing.

By helping students manage emotional struggles through introducing them to important life skills early, school therapists make it easier for students to succeed in class, build healthy relationships, and feel more confident in themselves and their futures.

The Lasting Impact of School Therapists in Education

Whether it’s guiding a child through a tough time, helping a teen find their voice, or creating a more inclusive school environment, the impact of a school therapist runs deep. These professionals show up each day with compassion, patience, and purpose, doing life-changing work in school communities.

If you’re passionate about making a difference where it truly counts, there’s no better place to start than here. Soliant offers a variety of jobs for school therapists and school mental health professionals, providing you with the chance to work in a supportive environment where you can impact students’ futures. Explore our career opportunities in schools, including teletherapy roles, and apply today!

Still looking for your perfect role? Explore additional resources on education and school therapy careers here.

The Role of Paraprofessionals: A Vital Piece of the Classroom Puzzle

If you’ve seen someone working side-by-side with a student, offering a helping hand, a warm smile, or encouragement during a tough moment, that’s likely a paraprofessional. Also known as paraeducators, classroom aides, teacher assistants, or instructional assistants, these individuals are the behind-the-scenes educators. They may not always be in the spotlight, but their impact is felt every day.

If you’re curious about being a paraprofessional—or considering the role—find everything you need to know in this Soliant career guide.

What is a Paraprofessional?

Under a teacher’s supervision, paraprofessionals assist with classroom management and support students’ learning. They help ensure every child gets the support they need to succeed, especially those with special needs, learning differences, or behavioral challenges.

Whether it’s helping a student stay focused, leading classroom activities, or reinforcing learning material in small group settings, paraprofessionals are there to make the classroom a more enjoyable environment for everyone.

What Does a Paraprofessional Do?

Paraprofessionals do a little bit of everything. They’re incredibly versatile and play a key role in helping schools run smoothly. While the exact responsibilities can vary depending on the school, the students they support, and the classroom setting, here’s a look at some of their most common tasks:

• One-on-One Student Support: Work directly with students who need extra academic, behavioral, emotional, or physical support throughout the school day.
• Small Group Instruction: Lead or assist with small group lessons, especially in special education classrooms, to help reinforce lessons and give students individualized attention.
• Behavioral Support: Assist with redirection, positive reinforcement, and calming strategies throughout the day.
• Classroom Management: Help classrooms stay on track by setting up activities, prepping materials, or taking attendance.
• Accessibility and Physical Assistance: Support students with physical disabilities by assisting with mobility, feeding, or personal care needs.
• Collaborating with Teachers: Work hand-in-hand with teachers to support lesson plans, monitor student progress, and adjust strategies based on how students are responding.

Where Do Paraprofessionals Work?

Paraprofessionals can be found in all kinds of educational settings, from pre-school to high school, in general education classrooms and special education programs. No matter the setting, paraprofessionals are there to make sure students’ needs don’t fall through the cracks, all while helping teachers deliver the best possible instruction.

How Much Do Paraprofessionals Make?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, teacher assistant salaries can range anywhere from $23,710 to $48,140, with the median annual wage for teacher assistants sitting around $35,000.

Paraprofessional salaries can vary quite a bit depending on location and cost of living, area of specialty, such as general education or special education, grade levels, full-time or part-time work, and whether the role is part of a wider teaching degree program.

While not as high-paying as certified teachers, the paraprofessional role is a meaningful entry point into education, offering stability, purpose, and the opportunity to grow into higher-paying roles or pursue further certifications in special education.

Learn More About Paraprofessionals

Paraprofessionals are the ones helping a nervous student feel safe, celebrating tiny victories that others might miss, and showing up every day with heart and purpose. They build trust with students, lighten the load for teachers, and keep classrooms running with care and consistency.

If you’re looking for a meaningful job where you can truly make a difference in the lives of students, becoming a paraprofessional might be right for you.

At Soliant, we connect passionate professionals like you with schools across the country that need your support. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for your next opportunity, we’re here to help you take the next step in your career. Start by exploring openings for paraprofessionals here, or browse Soliant’s additional opportunities in education, including teachers, special education, and more!