An education assistant is a school staff member who supports students who need additional help to participate in learning and daily school activities. EAs often assist students with disabilities or complex learning needs, helping them access instruction, manage transitions, regulate emotions, use assistive technology, or participate safely in the classroom. Education assistants work under the direction of the classroom teacher and school administration. Their role is typically to support the implementation of accommodations, support plans, or individual education plans, and to help create conditions where a student can engage in learning alongside their peers. In many schools, EA support is shared among several students and may be adjusted depending on available resources. This means that support levels can change over time, sometimes affecting a student’s ability to access the environment or curriculum. While EAs can play a crucial role in helping students participate meaningfully in school, they are not a substitute for appropriate teaching strategies, accommodations, or accessible learning environments. Effective support usually combines skilled teaching, inclusive classroom practices, and additional assistance when needed.