26-27 Occupational Therapist

Occupational Therapist (Otr) @ Special Education Department

Primary Purpose:

Evaluate, plan and provide therapy to students in special education. Provide therapeutic intervention to maximize access to the educational environment.

Qualifications:

Education/Certification:

• Master's degree in occupational therapy or related program
• Valid Texas license as an occupational therapist granted by the Texas Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners (TBOTE)

Special Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Knowledge of the evaluation tools to evaluate individual student's needs as it relates to Occupational Therapy – fine motor, daily living skills, self-help skills, sensory processing, assistive technology, etc
• Knowledge of procedures, activities, and equipment used in occupational therapy
• Implement instruction practices to ensure IEPs are met including collecting data and progress monitoring
• Able to instruct students and manage their behavior
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills

Experience:

• Some experience preferred

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

Therapy

• Observe and evaluate students with disabilities as referred. Assess students with disabilities and determine eligibility for services.
• Plan and provide direct and consultative services consistent with occupational therapy goals contained in students' Individual Education Plans (IEP).
• Evaluate student progress and make recommendations regarding occupational therapy services.
• Develop and implement Individual Educational Plans for students as approved by ARD/IEP Committee.
• Help the student achieve the maximum level of independence in self-care activities.
• Design, construct, alter, and provide students with adaptive equipment and devices to promote maximum independence.
• Assist in the acquisition of occupational therapy materials and equipment.

Consultation

• Provide consultation to staff and parents relative to student's individual needs.
• Present staff development in assigned school as requested. Conduct one-on-one consultation with teachers, parents, and others to assist with selection and use of adaptive equipment and material that will enhance student learning.
• Attend outside clinic and agency meetings as appropriate or required.

Student Management

• Create an environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the maturity level, interests, and needs of the student.
• Establish control and administer discipline according to the Student Code of Conduct and student handbook.

Program Management

• Participate in the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee to assist with the interpretation of assessment data, appropriate placement, and goal-setting for students according to district procedures.
• Develop and coordinate a continuing evaluation of the occupational therapy program and implement changes based on the findings.

Administration

• Compile, maintain, and file all reports, records and other documents required.
• Comply with policies established by federal and state law, State Board of Education rule, and local board policy. Comply with all district and campus routines and regulations.

Other

• Follow district safety protocols and emergency procedures.
• Maintain an appropriate level of technology competence to meet the current and future needs of Alief.
• Implement alternative methods of instruction as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Supervise Certified Occupational Therapist Assistants (COTA) as required.

Evaluation

Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of the Board's policy on evaluation of Professional Non-Supervisor Personnel.

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office equipment including computer and peripherals

Posture: Standing, prolonged sitting, occasional kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing pulling, and twisting

Motion: Repetitive hand motions; frequent keyboarding and use of mouse; occasional reaching; may also require climbing stairs and reaching over head

Lifting: Moderate lifting and carrying (up to 15 pounds); May require occasional heavy lifting and carrying (15-45 pounds)

Environment: May work prolonged or irregular hours; frequent district wide travel; all campuses are temperature controlled with hard surface floors

Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress

This document describes the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.