Occupational Therapist

Occupational Therapist (OT)

Occupational Therapist (PT) plans and provides therapy to students with mental, physical, or emotional disabilities and therapeutic intervention to maximize physical or mental functioning, increase independent functioning, and/or adjust to disabilities.

Education/Certification:

• Degree in occupational therapy or related program from an accredited occupational therapy professional program recognized by the National Board for Certification of Occupational Therapy (NBCOT)
• Valid Texas license as an occupational therapist granted by the Texas Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners

Special Knowledge/Skills:

• Knowledge of rehabilitation procedures, activities, and equipment used in occupational therapy
• Ability to instruct students and manage their behavior
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills

Experience:

• Six months of experience as an Occupational Therapist (OT)

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

Therapy:

• Plan and provide direct and consultative services consistent with occupational therapy goals contained in students' Individual Education Plans (IEP). Evaluate student progress and make recommendations regarding occupational therapy services
• Design, construct, alter, and provide students with adaptive equipment and devices to promote maximum independence, assessing and requesting remedies for potential architectural barriers
• Assess students with disabilities and determine eligibility for services

Consultation:

• Present staff development in assigned school as requested. Conduct one-on-one consultation with teachers, parents, and others to assist with selection and use of adaptive equipment and material that will enhance student learning, including techniques for positioning and/or handling children in a classroom

Student Management:

• Create an environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the maturity level, interests, and needs of the student
• Establish control and administer discipline according to the Student Code of Conduct and student handbook

Program Management:

• Participate in the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee to assist with the interpretation of assessment data, appropriate placement, and goal setting for students according to district procedures
• Develop and coordinate a continuing evaluation of the occupational therapy program and implement changes based on the findings
• Assist in purchasing, maintaining and utilizing assistive technology devices
• Act as liaison between the school and community health agencies

Administration:

• Compile, maintain, and file all reports, records and other documents required
• Comply with policies established by federal and state law, State Board of Education rule, and local board policy. Comply with all district and campus routines and regulations

Professional Growth and Development:

• Refine and develop professional skills related to pediatrics, assistive technology, and school-based occupational therapy through in-service training, professional reading, and continuing education

Other:

• Transport students for evaluations and therapy as needed
• Perform other tasks and assumes such responsibilities as may be assigned by the school principal and the Superintendent of Schools

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• Supervise the work of the Certified Occupational Therapist Assistants (COTAs)

Evaluation:

The Occupational Therapist (OT)'s evaluation is a responsibility resting with the Program Manager of Special Education Related Services. An evaluation shall be completed in writing at least once during the course of each school year.

Work Environment:

Tools/Equipment Used: Special need adaptive equipment; standard office equipment including computer and peripherals

Posture: Frequent standing, sitting, kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting

Motion: Frequent walking, grasping/squeezing, wrist flexion/extension

Lifting: Regular heavy lifting (45 pounds or more) and positioning of students with physical disabilities; controlling behavior through physical restraint; assisting nonambulatory students

Environment: Exposure to biological hazards, bacteria, and communicable diseases; may require districtwide travel

Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under pressure