Occupational Therapist

Occupational Therapist

Reports To: Director, Special Education & Building Principal

Qualifications: Illinois Certification

Performance Responsibilities:

Gives prescribed occupational therapy in accordance with physician's orders. Provides consultation to other team members who share responsibility for student care. Participates in the development of the occupational therapy programs for students. Demonstrates thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of occupational therapy and ability to adapt this knowledge to educational, home and other environments.

Reviews and evaluates physician's plan of treatment and student's record, consults with staff and physician to determine occupational therapy required. Prepares initial evaluation and treatment plan. Performs occupational therapy procedures, measurements, and evaluations. And diagnostic tests on students for whom these have been medically prescribed to aid in establishing or revising specifics of treatment program. Plans and administers occupational therapy treatments, i.e. manual therapeutic exercises, non-manual exercises, application of physical agents, traction and massage, evaluates the fit of prosthetic and orthotic devices, and recommends modification. Translates exercises into functional activities of daily living as applicable. Develops needed plans for obtaining or modifying equipment. Observes, records and reports the student's treatment, response and progress. Teaches appropriate treatment procedures and supportive activities to family members and other staff members, providing exercises and activities in writing when necessary. Interprets to the student, staff and family the implications of the treatment. Provides students and families with information, support and encouragement to help motivate them in their progress. Helps students and families to accept and adjust positively to physical, mental, and social limitations. Demonstrates ability to write clear, concise and accurate clinical notes. Demonstrates ability to work with students, families, and educational team effectively. Attends multi-disciplinary conferences, individual educational plans, and staff meeting as required. Provides advisory and consultation services to staff. Participates in the orientation of new staff and provides in-service education programs as requested. Supports philosophy and policies of the school district. Demonstrates ability to complete necessary documentation in a timely fashion. Will be evaluated by the Director, Special Education and Building Principal.