Occupational Therapist, Long-Term Substitute

Occupational Therapist

The Occupational Therapist is a highly qualified individual who is responsible for the instruction, evaluation, coordination and regulatory compliance for special education students. Salary commensurate with experience and education, as set forth in the agreement between the Seekonk School Department and the Seekonk Educators Association. The Occupational Therapist identifies students with fine motor, sensory integration, visual motor, and adaptive delays and disabilities and plans and implements appropriate treatment to minimize the adverse impact on the student's success. The Occupational Therapist recommends and implements individual educational plans and interventions within the school setting and accommodates student's learning needs as outlined in students' Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). The Occupational Therapist works collaboratively with the Martin School Psychologist and Building Principal, reports to the principal, and may direct a Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA).

The Occupational Therapist coordinates meetings and processes for eligible students (e.g. testing/screening, IEPs, parent conferences, transition meetings, RtI Interventions, etc.). Collaborates with a variety of groups and/or individuals (e.g. Early Intervention providers, parents, teachers, physicians, administration, community providers, families, and team members) for the purpose of communicating information, resolving issues, providing data collected, and providing services in compliance with established guidelines. Implements evidence-based direct occupational therapy intervention in a variety of settings, adhering to the requirement of providing services in the least restrictive environment and provides instructional support and consultation to various school providers regarding implementation of prescribed school based plans to foster participation in school, including classroom accommodations, sensory integration, and the use of adaptive strategies/technology.

To be considered qualified for this position, candidates must minimally have the following:

1. Preference given to applicants with experience in working with preschool and early childhood populations in self-contained settings.
2. Has excellent interpersonal and teaching skills, including a basic understanding of positive behavioral supports/interventions.
3. Experience working with students with a variety of developmental disabilities, including but not limited to Autism Spectrum Disorders.
4. Extensive background in sensory integration assessments and strategies.
5. Licensed and registered. Master's degree.
6. Demonstrates knowledge of an in-depth understanding of curriculum development, instruction, assessment, and technology integration.
7. Commitment to remain current in content knowledge and teaching strategies.
8. Ability to relate well and coach with students, colleagues, parents, and staff.
9. Experience teaching elementary students with disabilities.
10. Experience teaching students with developmental delays and disabilities (including but not limited to Autism Spectrum Disorder)
11. Knowledge of Core Curriculum Frameworks, co-teaching and experience working with students with a variety of disabilities including social-emotional challenges.
12. Ability to facilitate, monitor and modify programming in order to positively impact student achievement and personal functioning.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER. The Seekonk Public Schools strives to provide a safe, respectful, and supportive learning environment in which all students can thrive and succeed in its schools. The Seekonk Public Schools prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, to include traits historically associated with race, including, but not limited to, hair texture, hair type, hair length and protective hairstyles, sex, age, gender identity, disability, religion, national origin, limited English proficiency, sexual orientation, pregnancy or pregnancy related conditions or homelessness. and ensures that all students have equal rights of access and equal enjoyment of the opportunities, advantages, privileges, and courses of study.