I am currently a substitute paraprofessional for students K-12. I like it but it is not something I will do forever. My main career goal is academic support counseling at the college level.

Now I know, unfortunately in today's world there are a lot of goofy dirtbags that like to pray on other people, especially children. Due to this, I hear that sometimes people can be falsely accused of preying on someone due to it being some accident or a disgruntled coworker, parent, or even a student.

I have this fear that it could happen to me. I am very careful with my surroundings and do not touch students in any way unless instructed by the teacher and even then, only keep it to hand touching only. Am I being too paranoid or am I doing the right thing by being extra cautious? I prefer older students but in order to have more availability and more chances to get a job, I will accept openings at elementary schools too.

Just wondered if I am doing the right thing or if I am being too paranoid. This is not a permenant job, just something to get experience. I blame the perverts that actually caused problems and forced society to become very rigid on how adults handle students, especially at the elementary level.