Occupational Therapist

Occupational Therapist

The Occupational Therapist helps students access their education by improving their motor, sensory, and daily living skills. They evaluate needs, deliver therapy mandated by Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and Section 504 Accommodation plans as well as collaborate with educators and families.

Responsibilities:

• Evaluations & Screenings: Conduct standardized and functional assessments to determine a student's eligibility for OT services and their ability to participate in classroom activities.
• IEP Management: Develop educationally relevant goals, write comprehensive reports, and participate in Evaluation, IEP and Section 504 Meetings to establish goals, supplemental services and care plans. Frequently monitor student progress using evidence based data collection tools and observation.
• Direct & Indirect Therapeutic Intervention: Provide targeted one-on-one or small-group specialized instruction and therapy sessions, as well as indirect support (like environmental adaptations or modifying schoolwork, sensory diets and classroom layouts).
• Skill Development: Address foundational skills necessary for learning, including fine and gross motor functions (handwriting, cutting), sensory processing, executive functioning, and self-care.
• Collaboration & Consultation: Work closely with teachers, special education staff, speech-language pathologists, and parents to ensure therapeutic strategies are integrated naturally into the student's daily school routine.
• Documentation & Compliance: Keep accurate records of attendance, therapy data, and progress reports in accordance with state and federal special education laws
• Provide oversight of Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs)
• Commitment to professional growth through attendance at professional development events and self-generated activities that meet district expectations and re-certification requirements.
• Shares responsibility for meeting the goals of the grade, team, department, and district by attending required faculty meetings and participating in district-wide committees.
• Provides direct services during Extended School Year (ESY) sessions as determined by individual student needs in accordance with IEPs.
• Executes additional duties as assigned by the Director of Pupil Personnel Services.
• Maintains strict confidentiality regarding all student, family, and staff records, personal information, and school district matters in accordance with FERPA regulations and district policies

Qualifications:

• Experience: Minimum of two years of experience as an Occupational Therapist, with a preference for experience in school systems or pediatric practice settings. Dedicated commitment to maintaining current knowledge in occupational therapy content and strategies. Demonstrated experience working with students within a diverse environment.
• Education: Master's Degree from an accredited college or university in a related field of study.
• Certification: Must hold RI State Licensure and certification by the National Board for Certification of Occupational Therapy.