Paraprofessional: Exceptional Education

Cardinal Elementary School; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 35,000 - 53,000; Full time

Job summary

Cardinal Elementary School in Richmond, VA seeks an Instructional Assistant for an exceptional education classroom. You will support the teacher with individual and small-group instruction, reinforce material, and help students with self-care needs. This 11-month position runs 216 days, 7 hours daily.

The role requires teamwork, patience, ability to lift up to 50 lbs, and completion of autism training within 60 days. Start date July 20, 2026, salary range $34,606 to $53,221.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree or 60 college credits with ParaPro passing score.
• Minimum one year as instructional assistant preferred.
• Experience with children with disabilities preferred.
• Excellent communication, organizational and time management skills required.
• Ability to perform basic math and strong business English.
• Ability to establish effective working relationships.
• Good PC skills and related software experience.
• Able to handle changing priorities independently with minimal supervision.
• Knowledge of child development and paraprofessional instructional procedures.

Responsibilities

• Assist teacher with instructional activities in an exceptional education classroom or one-to-one.
• Reinforce material through repetitions and targeted efforts.
• Assist students with self-care to build independence.
• Prepare and maintain files and reports.
• Assist with individual and group instruction and supervise students.
• Reinforce positive behavior and classroom routines.
• Support curriculum development and safe facilities use.
• Assist with mobility, toileting, and personal hygiene.
• Escort students when necessary and manage challenging behavior.
• Maintain student records and display suitable materials.

Skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Time management

Public relations skills

Interpersonal skills

Reading/writing/mathematics support

Education

Associate’s degree or 60 college credits

ParaPro Assessment passing score

Tools

Computer skills

Job description

Cardinal Elementary School in Richmond, VA seeks an Instructional Assistant for an exceptional education classroom. You will support the teacher with individual and small-group instruction, reinforce material, and help students with self-care needs. This 11-month position runs 216 days, 7 hours daily.

The role requires teamwork, patience, ability to lift up to 50 lbs, and completion of autism training within 60 days. Start date July 20, 2026, salary range $34,606 to $53,221.