Occupational Therapist Assistant

Occupational Therapist Assistant

The Occupational Therapist Assistant supports students by providing occupational therapy services under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist. This role is critical in promoting student development and functional independence across school environments, ensuring compliance with IEP goals and applicable regulations.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Provide occupational therapy services to qualified students in accordance with their IEPs.
• Conduct student screenings to identify those in need of occupational therapy services.
• Assist in conducting evaluations as guided by federal and state regulations.
• Develop appropriate therapy goals and objectives in collaboration with the supervising Occupational Therapist.
• Maintain a flexible, age-appropriate, and disorder-specific therapy schedule based on student and site needs.
• Participate in multidisciplinary and IEP meetings, presenting goals, progress, and recommendations.
• Write timely and accurate progress reports for each grading period.
• Collaborate with IEP teams to review and revise plans as necessary; communicate updates to parents.
• Facilitate student dismissal planning when appropriate.
• Coordinate carryover of therapy strategies with classroom teachers and families.
• Work collaboratively with special education staff, general education teachers, and other specialists.
• Follow and support the districts student behavior and discipline policies.
• Participate in faculty meetings, SIT teams, and other assigned committees.
• Maintain inventory, order materials and supplies, and oversee care and use of therapy equipment.
• Prepare and maintain required documentation, records, and reports in compliance with District, State, and Federal guidelines.
• Maintain student confidentiality at all times.
• Meet all required timelines and service delivery mandates.
• Stay current with professional best practices through continued education and training.

Qualifications

Hold or be eligible for State certification or licensure as an Occupational Therapist Assistant. Education or supervised training in occupational therapy or a related field. Experience or coursework related to school-based OT services preferred. Demonstrated ability to work independently with strong self-direction and accountability. Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Ability to effectively collaborate with a diverse team of educators and families.