Occupational Therapist

Occupational Therapist (Part-Time – 3 Days/Week)

Bardwell Group | David Ellis Academy West & David Ellis Academy (Detroit, MI) Employment Type: Part-Time (3 days/week) Grade Levels Served: Elementary & Middle School

Bardwell Group is an educational management organization that supports high-performing charter schools in Detroit, including David Ellis Academy and David Ellis Academy West. Our mission is to ensure students receive high-quality instruction, intervention, and holistic support services. We are seeking a skilled and student-centered Occupational Therapist to provide therapy services across both campuses.

Position Summary

The Occupational Therapist will provide direct and consultative OT services to students in accordance with their IEPs, perform evaluations and reevaluations, and collaborate with school staff and families to promote student success and independence in the educational environment. This is a part-time position (3 days per week) serving students at both DEA-West and DEA-Detroit.

Key Responsibilities

Student Support & Direct Services

• Provide individual and small-group occupational therapy services as outlined in students' IEPs.
• Support students in developing skills related to fine motor development, sensory processing, motor planning, self-regulation, handwriting, and functional school participation.
• Implement therapeutic interventions that improve students' access to and engagement in the school environment.

Assessments & Documentation

• Conduct initial evaluations, re-evaluations, and progress monitoring using standardized assessments and clinical observations.
• Develop clear, measurable goals and objectives for students as part of the IEP team.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation, including therapy logs, progress reports, and service notes.

Collaboration & Communication

• Participate in IEP meetings and collaborate with teachers, case managers, and related service providers.
• Provide staff consultation to support classroom accommodations, sensory strategies, and motor skill development.
• Communicate effectively with families regarding student needs, progress, and home reinforcement strategies.

School-Based Support

• Travel between David Ellis Academy West and David Ellis Academy as scheduled.
• Assist with scheduling, service coordination, and organizational tasks related to OT caseload management.
• Adhere to all district, state, and federal guidelines related to special education services.

Qualifications

Required:

• Master's degree in Occupational Therapy
• Current Michigan Occupational Therapist License
• NBCOT Certification
• Experience working with school-aged children
• Strong understanding of IDEA, IEP processes, and school-based therapy practices
• Excellent communication, organization, and documentation skills

Preferred:

• Previous experience in a school-based setting
• Familiarity with sensory integration and evidence-based intervention strategies
• Ability to work independently across multiple school sites

Schedule & Compensation

• Part-Time: 3 days per week
• On-site services at both DEA-West and DEA-Detroit campuses
• Compensation based on experience and credentials

Why Join Bardwell Group?

• Supportive leadership team and collaborative environment
• Student-centered culture with strong family partnerships
• Opportunity to impact student success across two thriving campuses
• Flexible scheduling within the part-time structure