Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant

Certified Occupational Therapist AssistantThe Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA) provides occupational therapy treatment sessions and therapeutic support to students under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist (OT). The COTA supports eligible students enrolled in special education programs to achieve functional, developmental, and educational goals, fostering participation in classroom and school activities.Qualifications:AA degree or higher in an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant programLicense in Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA/L) issued by the Arizona Board of Occupational Therapy ExaminersAdditional certification with the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (COTA) is preferredValid Arizona Identity Verified Prints (IVP) Fingerprint Clearance Card (AZ IVP FPCC).Valid Arizona Driver's LicenseCertification in CPR & First Aid from an accepted agency (ARC/AHA)Experience with diverse student populationsJob related experience or clinical fieldwork in occupational therapy.Pediatric experience is preferredExperience working with school aged children for a year or more is preferred.Knowledge of physical therapy evaluation and treatment of childrenKnowledge of child developmentKnowledge of State and Federal guidelines regarding physical therapy and students with disabilitiesKnowledge of District policies, procedures, organizational structure and school requirementsStrong knowledge of the English language including reading, writing and oral communication with extensive skills in spelling, punctuation and grammarKnowledge of Spanish including reading, writing and oral communication is preferredStrong communication and interpersonal skills when working with students, parents, staff and administrationAbility to comprehend and perform functions from written and verbal instructionsExperience as a Physical Therapist Assistant working with children in an educational setting is preferredEssential Duties And Responsibilities:Conduct screenings, assessments, and evaluations to identify student needs, interpret findings, and present results to the MET/IEP Team, parents/guardians, and relevant service providersParticipate in the Child Find process and collaborate with school teams to ensure appropriate evaluation and identification of students requiring servicesDevelop, implement, and monitor individualized IEPs, therapy plans, and intervention strategies to address identified motor, sensory, and functional needsProvide direct occupational therapy services to students as indicated on IEPs, adapting interventions based on student progress and observed outcomesRecommend, procure, and design therapeutic equipment, materials, and specialized tools to support student participation, learning, and independenceTrain, consult with, and guide teachers, classroom aides, COTAs (if assigned), and other school staff on effective strategies, accommodations, and use of therapy tools.Collaborate and communicate with parents, school staff, and external agencies regarding student needs, progress, and instructional modifications or accommodationsMonitor student response to interventions, modify plans as necessary, and regularly evaluate and report on student progressMaintain accurate, thorough, and ongoing records, service logs, and required documentation in compliance with the Arizona Occupational Therapy Practice Act, Medicaid requirements, and district, state, and federal policiesProvide information, support, and education to families regarding student needs, progress, and therapy strategiesServe as a consultant and resource to school staff, providing in-service education on topics such as motor planning, coordination, sensory processing, and adaptive strategiesEstablish and maintain professional, positive relationships with students, school personnel, families, community members, and vendorsCommunicate effectively in both oral and written forms with staff, parents/guardians, administrators, physicians, and other professionalsUphold high ethical standards, maintain confidentiality, and demonstrate professional conduct in all interactionsParticipate in professional growth and development activities to remain current with best practices, research, and innovations in occupational therapyAdditional job-related duties as assignedLength of Employment:Nine (9) monthsDays worked will be determined by the school calendarReports to Director of Exceptional Student ServicesEvaluation Performance to be evaluated in accordance with Board Policy GDO