Occupational Therapist Full-time Standard

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION

:

Under general direction of the Special Education Administrator, the Itinerant Occupational Therapist (OT) performs screenings and evaluations of fine motor and sensory supports for children (3-21), provides related services to support the educational programs of students who qualify for special education services to enable them to meet their Individual Education Plan (IEP) goals and objectives. The Occupational Therapist is expected to recommend services, environmental adaptations and /or modifications as well as the staff training needed to manage students' fine motor and sensory needs to support their educational programs. Consultation and collaboration with assigned district educational personnel is an essential component of the occupational therapist's responsibilities. Extensive travel to school sites throughout Washoe County School District.

EXEMPLARY DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Evaluate and assess student's needs, performance, and abilities with accuracy.
• Prepare comprehensive reports including: summary and interpretation of evaluation results; recommendation for eligibility for occupational therapy services according to the Special Education Handbook; recommended activities for student progress; and suggested IEP goals and objectives, where appropriate.
• Develop therapeutic programs, provide support, and train district staff to assist students in achieving their IEP goals and objectives.
• Provide recommendations, interventions, and technical assistance to district staff based on interpretations of assessment findings.
• Support district staff with knowledge of Federal and State laws, regulations, and policies related to the special education program.
• Seek out and participate in professional growth opportunities.
• Coordinate with districts to arrange for site visits, including making travel arrangements and housing accommodations as needed.
• Submit required paperwork (Travel Authorizations, Travel Expense Reports, Report of Services, Student Reports, Time Sheets, etc.) within the expected timeline.
• Communicate regularly with Special Education Program Administrator and Special Education Administrative Assistant.
• Represent WCSD professionally in local communities.
• Assist in the promotion of and recruitment for WCSD programs.
• Travel is required to perform job duties.

EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS:

Education/Experience: Any combination of education that would provide the required knowledge and skills in qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and skills would be:

1. Education: Master's Degree in occupational therapy or related field from an accredited university.

2. Certification/registration by NBCOT;

AND

3. At least one-year pediatric experience preferred but not required.

Knowledge of: Knowledge of areas of practice specific to pediatrics including familiarity with IDEA and current legal mandates, including Federal and State law, compliance issues, and FERPA confidentiality requirements. Pediatric and school therapist experience; preferred; Ability to plan, coordinate and provide training to school staff and parents as needed in a collaborative, consultant role; Experience working with individuals from varied cultural backgrounds.

Skill at: Skill in selecting and providing a wide range of intervention strategies and monitoring their effectiveness. Skill in effective oral and written communication. Physical ability to execute job responsibilities which may include: extensive travel including the adaptability in being able to adjust to a variety of lodging and travel circumstances; carrying test and personal equipment on and off small planes (up to 50lbs.); and transferring and/or lifting equipment.

Licenses/Certificates: Possession of or ability to obtain, a valid State of Nevada driver's license with a driving record acceptable to the District.

THIS JOB SPECIFICAION SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED TO IMPLY THAT THESE REQUIREMENTS ARE THE EXCLUSIVE STANDARDS OF THE POSITION. INCUMBENTS MAY BE REQUIRED TO FOLLOW ANY OTHER INSTRUCTIONS, AND TO PERFORM ANY OTHER RELATED DUTIES AS MAY BE REQUIRED BY THEIR SUPERVISOR.