Occupational Therapist

School Occupational Therapist

The Occupational Therapist provides evaluation, consultation, and direct therapy services to students whose educational performance is affected by physical, developmental, sensory, or motor challenges. The Occupational Therapist collaborates with educators, families, and related service providers to support students' participation and success in the educational environment.

Essential duties and responsibilities include:

• Assessment and Evaluation: Conduct occupational therapy evaluations and re-evaluations for students referred through the special education process. Interpret evaluation results and prepare written reports that comply with federal, state, and local requirements. Participate as a member of eligibility, Individualized Education Program (IEP), and multidisciplinary teams. Assist in determining student needs and appropriate educational services.
• Therapy Services: Develop and implement occupational therapy interventions aligned with students' IEP goals. Provide direct and indirect occupational therapy services to eligible students. Address areas including fine motor development, visual-motor integration, sensory processing, self-help and adaptive skills, functional mobility within the educational environment, and assistive technology needs. Monitor student progress and adjust interventions as appropriate.
• Consultation and Collaboration: Consult with teachers, administrators, parents, and other service providers regarding student needs and accommodations. Recommend classroom modifications, adaptive equipment, and strategies to enhance student participation. Collaborate with physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, school psychologists, nurses, and other professionals. Provide training and support to school personnel regarding occupational therapy strategies and accommodations.
• Compliance and Documentation: Maintain accurate records, service logs, progress reports, and Medicaid documentation as required. Ensure compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Section 504, Virginia regulations, and local policies. Complete progress reports and documentation within established timelines. Maintain confidentiality of student information.
• Professional Responsibilities: Maintain current Virginia licensure and professional competencies. Participate in professional development activities. Attend meetings, trainings, and conferences as assigned. Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Qualifications:

• Master's degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program.
• Current license to practice Occupational Therapy in the Commonwealth of Virginia through the Virginia Board of Medicine.
• National certification through the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) preferred.
• Knowledge of occupational therapy principles, practices, and assessment techniques.
• Knowledge of IDEA, Section 504, and special education regulations.
• Ability to develop and implement effective therapy interventions.
• Ability to communicate effectively with students, families, and staff.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.