Occupational Therapy

Occupational Therapy

In the school setting, occupational therapists support students and teachers with academic outcomes, including school based self-help skills, classroom fine motor skills as well as development of pre-vocational and vocational participation; and more for children and students with disabilities, 3 to 21 years of age. Their primary function is to facilitate the above mentioned within the limitations of the student's level of disability. Under IDEA 2004 (2009), which states that, as a member of the IEP team, occupational therapists design and implement OT interventions, including teaching and training of family and educational personnel, and measurement and documentation of progress, to help the student achieve IEP goals.

Essential Functions

• Evaluates students' level of functioning and the need for educationally based occupational therapy services.
• Plans and administers occupational therapy treatment programs in the students educational program.
• Maintains student records, collects and records data.
• Provides OT input to the educational team for developing IEP's for each qualified student and attends the meeting along with the student (if appropriate) and parents.
• Consults with educational staff and parents.
• Provides in-service training to educational staff.
• Participates in MRT to provide OT input into the student's educational programs.
• Determines necessary adaptive equipment for the student and determine if it is available. Fills out paperwork to order if necessary.
• Develops a daily schedule and adheres to it. Notifies the Related Services supervisor if changes occur. Obtains coverage for meetings/events if unable to attend.
• Completes daily treatment notes and billing requirements. Completes progress reports for each student in the program and supplies progress reports to school personnel, physicians, and parents of exceptional students as necessary and requested. Completes appropriate reports for local, state, federal, and educational agencies.
• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree or higher in occupational therapy from an accredited college or university.
• Experience: One (1) year of experience in pediatrics is preferred, although will consider new graduate. Salary is based on verified years of experience.
• Certifications & Licenses: Licensed to practice in the State of Florida.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of educationally based occupational therapy
• Knowledge of support services delivery systems and exceptional education services
• Knowledge of current diagnostic procedures in occupational therapy
• Strong oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills
• Strong word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation software skills
• Strong code of ethics and responsibility
• Strong leadership skills
• Strong creative problem-solving skills
• Strong time management skills
• Strong organizational skills
• Ability to analyze activities and adapt for students