Plan Bee Academy - Instructional Assistant

Plan Bee Academy; Chesapeake (VA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Plan Bee Academy in Chesapeake, VA, seeks an Instructional Associate to support students with Autism Spectrum Disorders through academics, life skills, social development, and community-based learning. You will assist with academics, daily routines, and behavior support, collaborating with teachers, therapists, and families to ensure a consistent, supportive learning environment across age groups.

This role emphasizes patience, reliability, and compassionate communication, with ongoing

Qualifications

• High school diploma (or equivalent) and basic computer skills (Outlook, Word).
• Strong communication, reading, writing, and documentation skills.
• Reliable, punctual, and adaptable team player.
• Patient, calm, and resilient when supporting escalated students.
• Passion for helping students with learning or behavioral differences.

Responsibilities

• Assist students with academics, social skills, and daily living needs across age groups.
• Observe behavior, document notes, and share updates with the team to adjust strategies.
• Support self-help skills to promote independence (toileting, feeding, hygiene).
• Use de-escalation techniques to maintain a supportive, structured environment.
• Partner with teachers, therapists, BCBAs, and parents to provide consistent and individualized support.

Skills

High school diploma

Strong communication

Reading

Writing

Documentation skills

Reliable

Punctual

Team player

Patient

Calm

Resilient

Passion for helping students

Education

High school diploma (or equivalent)

Tools

Outlook

Word

Job description

At Plan Bee Academy, we provide individualized education and behavioral support for students with Autism Spectrum Disorders and related disabilities. Through academics, life skills, social development, and community-based learning, we empower students to build independence, confidence, and success across school, home, and community settings.

As a Instructional Associate with Plan Bee Academy, you’ll support students with special needs by assisting with academics, daily routines, and positive behavior. This role works closely with teachers, therapists, and families to ensure consistent care and a supportive learning environment.

What You'll Need

• High school diploma (or equivalent) and basic computer skills (Outlook, Word)

• Strong communication, reading, writing, and documentation skills

• Reliable, punctual, and adaptable team player

• Patient, calm, and resilient when supporting escalated students

• Passion for helping students with learning or behavioral differences

What You'll Do

• Assist students with academics, social skills, and daily living needs while adapting to all age groups, from elementary through high school

• Observe behavior, document notes, and share updates with the team to adjust strategies

• Support self-help skills by helping students with toileting, feeding, and hygiene to promote independence

• Use de-escalation techniques and calming strategies to maintain a supportive, structured environment

• Partner with teachers, therapists, BCBAs, and parents to provide consistent and individualized support

Why You’ll Love Working Here

• Enjoy both paid time off and extra paid school breaks (for select roles), plus paid holidays

• Wellness perks including gym discounts, mindfulness apps, and prescription savings

• Tuition reimbursement, career development programs, and leadership training

• 401(k) retirement savings with a 4% company match and immediate vesting

• Health, dental, and vision insurance

• Free Employee Assistance Program with confidential counseling, life coaching, and mental health resources

• Life insurance, disability coverage, and Health Savings Account (HSA) contributions at no cost to you

Plan Bee Academy is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you require reasonable accommodations during the application or interview process, please contact us at [e-mail].