As used in this part 5, unless the context otherwise requires:
(1) "Department" means the department of education created and existing pursuant to section 24-1-115, C.R.S.(1.5) "Education support professional" means a Colorado school district paraprofessional who may not be licensed, as described in article 60.5 of this title 22, but provides direct instruction, supports licensed staff in an educational capacity, or supports instruction and the learning environment, including, without limitation: (a) Teaching assistant, regular education;(b) Teaching assistant, special education;(c) Title 1 teaching assistant;(d) Teaching or classroom technician;(f) Library or media assistant;(h) Educational interpreter;(j) Occupational therapist assistant;(k) Physical therapist assistant;(n) Health-care technician;(p) Child find coordinator;(q) Child care provider or group leader; and(2) "Low-performing, high-needs school" means a school that is required to submit a priority improvement or turnaround plan pursuant to section 22-11-210.Amended by 2021 Ch. 484, § 1, eff. 7/7/2021.L. 2008: Entire part added, p. 1362, § 1, effective May 27. L. 2012: Entire section amended, (HB 12-1261), ch. 1306, p. 1306, § 2, effective August 8. L. 2021: (1.5) added, (HB 21-1087), ch. 3468, p. 3468, § 1, effective July 7. For the legislative declaration in the 2012 act amending this section, see section 1 of chapter 257, Session Laws of Colorado 2012.