Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant

Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant

The Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA) provides occupational therapy treatment sessions and therapeutic support to students under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist (OT). The COTA supports eligible students enrolled in special education programs to achieve functional, developmental, and educational goals, fostering participation in classroom and school activities.

Qualifications:

• AA degree or higher in an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program
• License in Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA/L) issued by the Arizona Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners
• Additional certification with the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (COTA) is preferred
• Valid Arizona Identity Verified Prints (IVP) Fingerprint Clearance Card (AZ IVP FPCC).
• Valid Arizona Driver's License
• Certification in CPR & First Aid from an accepted agency (ARC/AHA)
• Experience with diverse student populations
• Job related experience or clinical fieldwork in occupational therapy.
• Pediatric experience is preferred
• Experience working with school aged children for a year or more is preferred.
• Knowledge of physical therapy evaluation and treatment of children
• Knowledge of child development
• Knowledge of State and Federal guidelines regarding physical therapy and students with disabilities
• Knowledge of District policies, procedures, organizational structure and school requirements
• Strong knowledge of the English language including reading, writing and oral communication with extensive skills in spelling, punctuation and grammar
• Knowledge of Spanish including reading, writing and oral communication is preferred
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills when working with students, parents, staff and administration
• Ability to comprehend and perform functions from written and verbal instructions
• Experience as a Physical Therapist Assistant working with children in an educational setting is preferred

Essential Duties And Responsibilities:

• Conduct screenings, assessments, and evaluations to identify student needs, interpret findings, and present results to the MET/IEP Team, parents/guardians, and relevant service providers
• Participate in the Child Find process and collaborate with school teams to ensure appropriate evaluation and identification of students requiring services
• Develop, implement, and monitor individualized IEPs, therapy plans, and intervention strategies to address identified motor, sensory, and functional needs
• Provide direct occupational therapy services to students as indicated on IEPs, adapting interventions based on student progress and observed outcomes
• Recommend, procure, and design therapeutic equipment, materials, and specialized tools to support student participation, learning, and independence
• Train, consult with, and guide teachers, classroom aides, COTAs (if assigned), and other school staff on effective strategies, accommodations, and use of therapy tools.
• Collaborate and communicate with parents, school staff, and external agencies regarding student needs, progress, and instructional modifications or accommodations
• Monitor student response to interventions, modify plans as necessary, and regularly evaluate and report on student progress
• Maintain accurate, thorough, and ongoing records, service logs, and required documentation in compliance with the Arizona Occupational Therapy Practice Act, Medicaid requirements, and district, state, and federal policies
• Provide information, support, and education to families regarding student needs, progress, and therapy strategies
• Serve as a consultant and resource to school staff, providing in-service education on topics such as motor planning, coordination, sensory processing, and adaptive strategies
• Establish and maintain professional, positive relationships with students, school personnel, families, community members, and vendors
• Communicate effectively in both oral and written forms with staff, parents/guardians, administrators, physicians, and other professionals
• Uphold high ethical standards, maintain confidentiality, and demonstrate professional conduct in all interactions
• Participate in professional growth and development activities to remain current with best practices, research, and innovations in occupational therapy
• Additional job-related duties as assigned

Length of Employment:

• Nine (9) months
• Days worked will be determined by the school calendar

Reports to Director of Exceptional Student Services

Evaluation Performance to be evaluated in accordance with Board Policy GDO