Profissionais de apoio escolar e a educação especial no município de Pedras de Fogo/PB: desafios e perspectivas

Abstract

This undergraduate thesis focuses on the role of school support professionals in special education in the municipality of Pedras de Fogo, Paraíba, analyzing the challenges and prospects of this field. The main objective of this research was to analyze the work of support professionals for students with disabilities, understanding their importance in the process of educational inclusion. To this end, the following specific objectives were established: to identify the different conceptions held by support professionals regarding the inclusion of students with disabilities; to map the educational backgrounds and roles performed by these professionals; and to describe the context of special education in the municipality. The field research adopted a qualitative approach with a descriptive and exploratory character. Data were collected through questionnaires administered to school support professionals in Pedras de Fogo/PB, as well as through documentary research in academic repositories and legal frameworks. The data analysis revealed challenges such as a lack of specific training, difficulties in interacting with students with disabilities and their families, and professional undervaluation. The findings highlighted the need for ongoing training and greater recognition of the role performed by these workers within the school environment. They also indicated that the work of school support professionals is essential to ensuring the effective inclusion of students with disabilities, although significant gaps remain in their training and professional recognition. It is concluded that valuing and training school support professionals are fundamental to building a more inclusive and equitable educational system.