Occupational Therapist (OT)

Primary Purpose:

Evaluate referred students with disabilities; develop and implement therapy programs; and to provide consultative services to school personnel and families.

Education / Certification:

• Graduate from an accredited school of Occupational Therapy.
• Occupational Therapists are licensed by the Texas Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners (TBOTE)

Special Knowledge / Skills:

• Knowledge of rehabilitation procedures, activities, and equipment in occupational therapy.
• Ability to apply knowledge of current research and theory to instructional programs.
• Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

• Assess students with physical disabilities and determine eligibility for services.
• Plan and provide direct and consultative services consistent with occupational therapy goals contained in Individual Education Plans (IEP).
• Participate in the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee regarding interpretation of assessment data, appropriate placement, and goal setting for students with physical disabilities according to district procedures.
• Evaluate student's progress and determine readiness for termination of occupational therapy services.
• Design, construct, alter equipment, and provide students with adaptive equipment and devices.
• Consult with educational staff and parents regarding occupational therapy.
• Provide staff development training in assigned school to assist school personnel in understating occupational therapy program.
• 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 the local board policy.
• Present a positive role model for students that supports the mission of the school district.
• Comply with all district and local campus routines and regulations.
• Effectively communicate with colleagues, students, and parents.
• Assess and respond to needs related to job responsibilities.
• Develop and coordinate a continuing evaluation of occupational therapy program and implement changes based on the findings.
• Assist in the selection of materials, equipment, and other adaptive materials.
• Develop and maintain effective individual and group relationships with students and parents.
• Consult with parents, teachers, administrators, and other relevant individuals to enhance their work with students.
• Develop needed professional skills appropriate to job assignment.
• Demonstrate behavior that is professional, ethical, and responsible.
• Demonstrate awareness of school-community needs and initiate activities to meet those identified needs.
• Demonstrate awareness of school-community needs and initiate activities to meet those identified needs.
• Demonstrate the use of appropriate and effective techniques for community and parent involvement
• Perform related duties as required.
• Responsible for properly maintaining district records, adhering to all policies set forth by the district for records maintenance and learning the records retention schedule for department records.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

Supervises students and Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant as required.