After School Program (EDEP) Special Needs Assistant - Brownsville Elementary School - 2026-27 School Year

About the role

This part-time position supports the Extended Day Enrichment Program (EDEP) at Brownsville Elementary School during the 2025-26 school year. The role is 41% time (3 hours/day) over 10 months and is not eligible for benefits.

Albemarle County Public Schools is committed to ending the predictive value of race, class, gender, and special capacities for student success through high-quality teaching and learning for all. The division is a leader in anti-racism policy and strives to build inclusive school communities.

Responsibilities

• Assist the head teacher and/or teacher in supporting assigned students in the after-school program.
• Help with daily tasks and instruct students in preplanned activities.
• Support activities and special events as needed.
• Establish and maintain cooperative professional relations with EDEP and school staff.
• Uphold school rules, policies, and procedures.
• Provide basic personal care for assigned special needs student(s).
• Support students in all EDEP venues, including Student Holiday, Spring Break, and Inclement Weather programs.
• Participate in required and assigned training sessions.
• Maintain a safe work environment and high standards of behavior.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Basic keyboard and filing training.
• Experience working with special needs children preferred.
• Certified in First Aid; CPR certification required (or willingness to obtain).
• Preferred: nursing assistant/attendant experience and age-appropriate experience.
• Ability to develop an empathetic attitude toward disabled students and learn specialized instructional/management techniques.
• Strong communication skills and ability to build effective working relationships with students, parents, and staff.

Working Conditions

• Duties performed in school settings, including cafeterias, gyms, recreational areas, and other assigned spaces.
• Frequent walking, standing, and lifting up to 40 pounds.
• Occasional travel with students on field trips.
• Frequent movement of students using wheelchairs or other mechanical devices.
• Occasional lifting of equipment (e.g., audio-visuals) up to 50 pounds.
• Daily personal and close contact with children and EDEP staff.

Ideal Candidate Traits

• Passion for working with students.
• Flexibility in work schedule and location.
• Positive attitude and initiative to support student learning.
• Comfortable working with students in an in-person environment.