KEYS Academy·Charlottesville, Virginia
Provide academic, behavioral, and social-emotional support to students in a structured special education classroom. Collaborate with teachers to implement IEP goals and maintain a safe, dignified learning environment.
Overview Join Our Team at KEYS Academy, Supported by Health Connect America!
KEYS Academy is a network of Private Special Education Day schools serving students across Virginia in grades K–12.
Guided by the principles of Safety, Dignity, and Opportunity and rooted in trauma informed care, our schools provide structured, supportive learning environments where students build academic skills, strengthen social-emotional development and self-regulation, set and meet achievable goals, and rediscover confidence in learning.
Through small classroom settings and individualized support, our teams help students develop the skills needed for academic success and positive future transitions.
Supported by Health Connect America; KEYS Academy combines the close-knit culture of a school community with the resources and professional support of a multi-state organization dedicated to improving outcomes for children and families.
KEYS Academy schools are licensed by the Virgina Department of Education and accredited through Virginia Association of Independent Special Education Facilities (VAISEF).
What a Day at KEYS Academy Looks Like: In this role, you will work alongside teachers and support staff in a structured classroom environment designed to help students feel safe, supported, and ready to learn. Each day focuses on building positive relationships and group communication skills, reinforcing learning, and helping students develop confidence through consistent practices and individualized support. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy working closely with students with varied academic and social-emotional needs, supporting learning in small classroom environments, and contributing to a collaborative school team. As a KEYS Academy Paraprofessional, you will support students and teachers in creating a safe, dignified, and engaging learning environment. Working under the guidance of the School Director and classroom teacher, you will provide academic, behavioral, and social-emotional support that helps maximize instructional time and promote student well-being and success.
Education & Experience High school diploma or equivalent required. Associate degree, paraprofessional certification, or coursework in education, psychology, human services, or a related field preferred. Experience working with children or adolescents in an educational, childcare, or youth-serving environment preferred. Skills & Competencies Ability to build positive relationships with students and staff. Strong communication and collaboration skills. Ability to maintain patience, consistency, confidentiality and professionalism in a structured classroom environment and school setting. Ability to follow direction and work effectively as part of a team. Additional Requirements Ability to meet state and federal background check and clearance requirements. Ability to perform duties within a school environment, including physical ability to be trained in behavior regulation and support programs and physical movement throughout the classroom and campus as needed. Ability to complete required training and certifications within established timelines following hire. Be Well with Us We recognize the important work educators and school staff do each day and the need for balance and support to sustain that work. KEYS Academy promotes a structured school environment designed to support both student success and employee wellbeing. Full-time employees enjoy paid time off, paid holidays, and a comprehensive benefits package including: Medical, dental, and vision insurance Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with confidential counseling sessions Health Savings Account with company contribution Dependent Daycare Flexible Spending Account 401(k) Retirement Plan Access to a Health Navigator Benefits Hub and Tickets at Work employee discount programs Make a difference. Grow your career. Join KEYS Academy, supported by Health Connect America. Employment at Health Connect America and its companies is contingent upon meeting the requirements of a comprehensive background investigation prior to joining our team. Health Connect America and its companies are an Equal Opportunity Employer and consider applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetics, or any other basis forbidden under federal, state, or local law. For more information on Equal Opportunity, please click here Equal Employment Opportunity Posters
A high school diploma is required, while an associate degree or paraprofessional certification is preferred. Candidates should have experience working with children and the ability to pass comprehensive background checks.
Market context
Paraprofessional roles in Virginia schools are often in steady demand, especially when they support behavior regulation and student assistance. This position is competitive for candidates who can meet background check requirements, show reliability in a classroom setting, and bring a high school diploma, with an associate degree or paraprofessional certification preferred. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your physical readiness for behavior support and align your application with the school’s student support needs.