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Independence Academy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

KEYS Academy Paraprofessional

Charlottesville, VA ยท On-site

$14 - $18.25/hr

KEYS Academy schools are licensed by the Virgina Department of Education and accredited through Virginia Association of Independent Special Education Facilities (VAISEF). Responsibilities What a Day ...

KEYS Academy Paraprofessional

Ruther Glen, VA

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

KEYS Academy schools are licensed by the Virgina Department of Education and accredited through Virginia Association of Independent Special Education Facilities (VAISEF). Responsibilities What a Day ...

KEYS Academy Paraprofessional

Verona, VA ยท On-site

$13.50 - $17.50/hr

KEYS Academy schools are licensed by the Virgina Department of Education and accredited through Virginia Association of Independent Special Education Facilities (VAISEF). Responsibilities What a Day ...

KEYS Academy Paraprofessional

Ruther Glen, VA ยท On-site

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

KEYS Academy schools are licensed by the Virgina Department of Education and accredited through Virginia Association of Independent Special Education Facilities (VAISEF). Responsibilities What a Day ...

K-3 Teacher

Fairfield, AL ยท On-site

$48K - $61K/yr

Independence Preparatory Academy is a new, academically challenging, highly structured, and joyful K-8 school in Fairfield, AL. We are on a mission to equip all students with the academic tenacity ...

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Independence Academy information

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$10

$32

$48

How much do independence academy jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for independence academy in the United States is $32.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.24 and $38.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is Independence Academy?

Independence Academy is typically a specialized educational institution designed to support students with unique learning needs, such as those with autism spectrum disorder or other developmental differences. These schools focus on providing individualized instruction, life skills training, and social development to help students achieve greater independence. The curriculum often combines academics with practical skills to prepare students for adulthood and community integration. Admission requirements and programs may vary, so it's important to contact the specific Independence Academy in your area for detailed information.

What is the difference between Independence Academy vs Special Education Teacher?

AspectIndependence AcademySpecial Education Teacher
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; specialized training in independence skillsBachelor's degree in Education or related field; state certification in special education
Work EnvironmentSpecialized programs for individuals with disabilities, often in dedicated facilitiesClassroom settings within schools, working with students with diverse needs
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofit organizations, specialized education centersPublic and private schools, educational institutions
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in independence training and supportEducational strategies for students with disabilities

Independence Academy focuses on teaching life skills and independence to individuals with disabilities, often in specialized settings. Special Education Teachers work within schools to support students with diverse learning needs. While both roles serve individuals with disabilities, Independence Academy emphasizes independence training, whereas Special Education Teachers focus on academic and behavioral support within educational environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an educator at Independence Academy, and why are they important?

To thrive as an educator at Independence Academy, you need a solid background in teaching methodologies, subject expertise, and appropriate state teaching certification. Familiarity with classroom management software, digital learning platforms, and assessment tools is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and adaptability are valuable soft skills for engaging diverse learners and supporting individualized instruction. These competencies ensure effective teaching, foster a positive learning environment, and support student success in a specialized academic setting.

What are some common challenges faced by educators working at specialized schools like Independence Academy, and how can they be addressed?

Educators at specialized schools such as Independence Academy often work with students who have unique learning needs or developmental differences. Common challenges include adapting curriculum for diverse abilities, maintaining student engagement, and collaborating closely with support staff (such as counselors and therapists). Success in this environment often requires creativity, patience, and ongoing professional development. Building strong relationships with both students and their families, as well as regularly collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, helps address these challenges and fosters a supportive learning environment.
More about Independence Academy jobs
What cities are hiring for Independence Academy jobs? Cities with the most Independence Academy job openings:
What states have the most Independence Academy jobs? States with the most job openings for Independence Academy jobs include:

KEYS Academy Paraprofessional

KEYS Academy

Charlottesville, VA โ€ข On-site

$14 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

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).
Responsibilities
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.
Responsibilities:
  • Support a structured and culturally responsive classroom environment that promotes safety, dignity, and readiness for learning.
  • Assist students in understanding classroom routines, expectations for individual and group interactions, and behavioral boundaries while reinforcing positive engagement.
  • Provide individualized and small-group support to reinforce academic skills and learning activities directed by the teacher.
  • Assist with implementation of lesson activities, accommodations, and supports aligned with student IEP goals.
  • Help students utilize instructional tools and online learning platforms such as Courseware, Exact Path, Wilson Reading Systems, Reflex Math, and LEXIA.
  • Help students understand and apply the social -emotional and communication strategies embedded within the KEYS for a Big Life and Social Thinking curricula.
  • Provide encouragement and feedback that supports students' academic participation, social-emotional development and behavior regulation.
  • Collaborate with teachers and school staff to support student success and maintain consistent classroom practices.
  • Assist with supervision during classroom transitions, lunch, recreation, and school activities, including community-based experiences as assigned.
  • Support classroom preparation, organization of materials, and daily operational needs of the learning environment.
  • Assist with documentation, data collection, and communication related to student progress as directed by the classroom teacher.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned to support student success and school operations.

Qualifications
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