FOIA SPECIALIST

Open Until Filled General Definition of Work:

FLSA Status:

Non-Exempt Under the direction of the Director of Communications, the FOIA Specialist manages and processes Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests for Fauquier County Public Schools on a temporary, part-time basis. This includes reviewing, redacting, and responding to requests in compliance with Virginia FOIA, FERPA, and school division policies. The role involves coordination with internal departments, maintaining accurate records, and advising staff on public records requirements. The FOIA Specialist ensures timely and lawful responses while protecting sensitive and personally identifiable information.

Essential Functions/Typical Tasks:

Review and process FOIA requests in compliance with Virginia FOIA statutes and FERPA regulations Assist in the identification, gathering, and review of student records and other FERPA-protected documents in response to lawful requests, subpoenas, or disclosures Apply appropriate redactions to protected, exempt, or personally identifiable information prior to release Research and compile responsive documents from across the division in coordination with department staff Maintain accurate tracking of all FOIA requests, response timelines, and document release logs Communicate with requesters to clarify scope, acknowledge receipt, and provide status updates within required timeframes Use software tools for redaction, document management, and secure file handling Draft clear and legally compliant correspondence, response letters, and denial notices Provide guidance and training to school and division staff on FOIA procedures, records management, and FERPA compliance Collaborate closely with the Director of Communications on sensitive, high-profile, or legally complex matters Perform related administrative tasks as assigned

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Strong working knowledge of Virginia FOIA, FERPA, and applicable public records laws Ability to research, interpret, and apply legal standards to complex records situations Skilled in reviewing documents and applying appropriate redactions to sensitive or exempt content Familiarity with FERPA disclosure rules, including directory information, legitimate educational interest, and exceptions to consent requirements Excellent written and verbal communication skills Strong organizational skills with close attention to detail and deadlines Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and professionalism Proficient in Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat and/or relevant database or redaction tools Comfortable interacting with internal staff, legal counsel, and members of the public in a professional manner

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

High school diploma or equivalent required Relevant experience in legal, compliance, or records management settings preferred

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

This is sedentary work requiring the exertion of up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to move objects; work requires repetitive typing and hand-writing; vocal communication is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word; hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken word levels; visual acuity is required for preparing and analyzing written or computer data, determining the accuracy and thoroughness of work and observing general surroundings and activities; the worker is not subject to adverse environmental conditions.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Completion of Virginia Annual FOIA Training is required and may be completed after hire.

Code :

20000550-1

Type :

INTERNAL & EXTERNAL

Location :

SBO ADMINISTRATION

Group :

SCHOOL TEM MAXIMUM HOURLY RATE

$50.00