Focus Room​/Instructional Assistant-Bessie Weller Elementary School

Job Summary

Bessie Weller Elementary School is seeking a Focus Room/Instructional Assistant for the 2026-27 school year.
Start Date: August 4, 2026. The position is part of a full benefits package.

Staunton City Schools is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) and fully committed to equal employment practices.

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check, employment reference check, and completion of the Child Abuse and Neglect Training Certificate.

• Maintain reliable attendance and arrive on time.
• Respect confidentiality of student and school personnel information.
• Coordinate instructional efforts with classroom teachers.
• Assist in delivering instructions to students as directed by teachers.
• Implement instructional plans, including students’ Individual Educational Plans (IEPs) and 1:1 assistance.
• Help prepare and develop teaching aids such as charts, centers, and graphs.
• Assist students individually and in groups with lesson assignments.
• Maintain a pleasant and orderly classroom environment, including instructional materials and bulletin boards.
• Support a classroom management policy that fosters a safe and positive environment for all.
• Ensure adequate safe supervision of all students.
• Take necessary precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities.
• Assist with related instructional activities such as field trips, library visits, assemblies, and more as directed.
• Ensure safe and proper physical movement of students between learning environments.
• Report promptly to designated locations or areas.
• Attend required meetings and in‑services.
• Comply with and support school and division regulations and policies.
• Model non‑discriminatory practices in all activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned by school librarians, teachers, or administrators.

• Basic reading, writing, and computation skills.
• Experience working with groups of children.
• Good physical and emotional health.
• At least 18 years of age.
• Good character and leadership qualities.
• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent.
• For elementary level: meet highly qualified criteria under No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, including passing the Paraprofessional Assessment with a minimum score of 455, having at least 48 college credits, or earning an Associate’s Degree.
• Pass a criminal background check.

Work typically occurs in classrooms, gyms, library, cafeteria, transportation, and recreational areas. Duties include standing, walking, sitting, using hands for fine motor tasks, reaching, and speaking. Light lifting up to 40 pounds is required. Occasional movement of students via wheelchairs and mechanical devices may be necessary.

Employees will have personal and close contact with students and regular contact with staff. Exposure to germs and potentially blood borne pathogens may occur.

Performance will be evaluated in accordance with board and administrative regulations on support staff.

• Citizenship, residency, or work visa required.