Therapy - Occupational Therapist (OT)

Occupational Therapist

The Occupational Therapist (OT) provides evaluation, consultation, and therapeutic services to students whose physical, sensory, motor, self-care, or perceptual challenges impact their ability to participate successfully in educational programs. The OT collaborates with students, families, teachers, administrators, and multidisciplinary teams to ensure students receive appropriate support and access to their educational environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assessment & Evaluation
• Conduct occupational therapy assessments and screenings to determine eligibility for services.
• Evaluate students' fine motor, sensory processing, visual-motor integration, self-help, adaptive, and functional school skills.
• Interpret assessment results and prepare comprehensive evaluation reports.
• Participate in initial evaluations, re-evaluations, and Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs) as assigned.

Intervention & Service Delivery

• Develop and implement individualized occupational therapy treatment plans aligned with student educational goals.
• Provide direct and consultative occupational therapy services in individual, small group, and classroom settings.
• Recommend adaptive equipment, assistive technology, environmental modifications, and accommodations to enhance student participation.
• Monitor student progress and adjust interventions based on data and observed outcomes.

IEP Participation & Compliance

• Participate actively in Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings and multidisciplinary team meetings.
• Develop measurable therapy goals and objectives aligned with IDEA and Pennsylvania Department of Education requirements.
• Maintain accurate records, service logs, progress reports, and documentation in accordance with federal, state, and district regulations.
• Ensure compliance with Special Education timelines and procedural requirements.

Collaboration & Consultation

• Collaborate with teachers, school psychologists, speech-language pathologists, physical therapists, nurses, administrators, and other stakeholders.
• Provide recommendations regarding classroom strategies, accommodations, and adaptive techniques.
• Educate and support families regarding occupational therapy services and home-based carryover activities.
• Participate in student support teams and problem-solving discussions.

Professional Responsibilities

• Maintain current Pennsylvania Occupational Therapist licensure.
• Adhere to state, federal, district, and professional practice standards.
• Participate in ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
• Attend staff meetings, department meetings, and district professional learning activities.
• Maintain confidentiality of student records and information consistent with FERPA and HIPAA requirements.