Therapist Assistant (COTA)

POSITION TITLE: Therapy Assistant Classified - Non-Exempt, Full Time POSITION SUMMARY This position is established to assess students’ functional development level; provide appropriate occupational therapy services to meet individual objectives; and recommend program development and student placement to improve educational functioning. The Therapy Assistant performs related duties as assigned to ensure efficient and effective unit operation. PRIMARY DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES Adapts equipment (e.g., seating, tables, desks, computer hardware) to provide optimal positioning and increased independence for special education students. Assists the Occupational Therapist in completing work activities and supports them during therapy sessions. Assists with assessing students’ fine motor and developmental skills by administering tests and observing to determine deficits and develop recommendations. Attends educational team meetings, district approved in‑services, and meetings with outside agencies to convey and receive information. Consults with occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech therapists, teachers, class assistants, families, and others to provide requested information, review/revise goals, develop service plans, and make recommendations. Implements therapeutic activities, instructs students, teachers and parents on positioning, special equipment use, visual perceptual motor and sensorimotor skills to support IEP plans. Maintains treatment equipment and supplies such as swings, balls and puzzles to implement therapy goals. Maintains files and records (progress reports, Medicaid billings, activity logs) for compliance and documentation. Performs site visits, including home visits, to provide therapy and assistance as required. Prepares written materials (activity logs, progress notes, reports, memos, Medicaid billings, time studies, summer activity packets) for documentation and communication. Presents student performance data and clinical feedback to ensure adherence to internal controls. Provides training and instruction on the use of assistive devices to ensure safe and optimal use. Provides home visits and/or summer therapy services in compliance with guidelines. Provides direct occupational therapy services to students according to IEP goals to ensure compliance with established practices and procedures. Reports incidents and observations (e.g., suspected abuse or substance abuse) for student safety and compliance with Education Code, administrative and school policies. Researches resources, methods, treatment techniques, assessment tools, and community resources to determine the most appropriate approach for students’ functional goals. Transports items (puzzles, games, swings, assistive devices, assessment tools) to ensure material availability for therapy sessions. Troubleshoots problems with assistive devices, including computer technology, to maintain equipment functionality and provide alternatives. EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS Job‑related experience is desired. Community College and/or Vocational School degree with study in a related area. Active license for Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) from the Kansas State Board of Healing Arts and Certification, and certification through the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy. REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Knowledge of safety practices, assessment instruments, occupational therapy models, adaptive equipment, and related concepts. Skills in operating therapy and office equipment, preparing accurate records, communicating with diverse groups, and respecting confidentiality. Abilities to schedule activities, conduct assessments, solve problems, maintain attention to detail, display empathy and professionalism, and collaborate effectively. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS Significant lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling; climbing and balancing; stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling; fine finger dexterity. Work composition: 20% sitting, 40% walking, 40% standing. Work environment is clean and healthy. IMPORTANT EMPLOYMENT STATEMENTS The statements above describe the general nature of the work and are not exhaustive. The District reserves the right to modify job duties or descriptions at any time. The Olathe Public Schools prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, sexual orientation, or gender identity in employment as required by applicable federal and state laws. CLEARANCES REQUIRED Background clearance and TB testing. Job Info Job Identification 3194 Job Category Support Posting Date 05/07/2026, 06:41 PM Job Schedule Full time Locations 1201 E Elm St, Olathe, KS, 66061, US #J-18808-Ljbffr