25-26 SPED Occupational Therapist

Job Title : Occupational Therapist

Reports to : Director of Special Education

Dept. / School : Special Populations

Exemption Status : Exempt / 187 Days

Date Revised : 06 / 11 / 2024

Salary calculations will be commensurate with job experience.

Primary Purpose :

Assess students to determine educational need for the related service of occupational therapy. For eligible students, prepare individualized service plans and provide consultative and / or direct therapy to eliminate or reduce problems or impairments that interfere with a student's ability to receive educational benefit from his / her Individual Education Plan (IEP).

Qualifications :

Education / Certification :

Master's degree in occupational therapy from an accredited program

Valid Texas license as an occupational therapist granted by the Executive Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Examiners

Knowledge of working with children and adolescents

Special Knowledge / Skills / Abilities :

Knowledge of rehabilitation procedures, activities, and equipment used in occupational therapy

Knowledge of medical information and indications for occupational therapy treatment Skill in use of tests and measurements for assessing physical functioning, psychosocial, cognitive / perceptual, and sensory processing

Knowledge of normal and abnormal child development Understanding of the psychology of disability and family dynamics Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills Ability to travel to multiple work locations as assigned

Calm and patient demeanor with students and others

Experience :

One year of experience as an occupational therapist Experience in public school setting preferred

Major Responsibilities and Duties :

1.Assess students with psychosocial, cognitive / perceptual, sensor processing impairments, and physical disabilities and determine eligibility for services.

2.Plan and provide direct and consultative services consistent with the student's Individual Education Plans (IEP).

3.Participate in the discussion within 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.

4.Evaluate student progress and determine readiness for termination of occupational therapy services.

5.Design, construct, alter equipment, and provide students with adaptive equipment and devices to promote maximum independence.

6.Consult with educational staff regarding the use of specialized equipment, materials, and techniques.

7.Adapt or recommend adaptation of the school environment.

8.Consult with district and outside personnel including private therapists and other medical staff regarding the physical and medical needs of students.

9.Provide staff development training in assigned schools to assist school personnel in understanding students with physical disabilities and an understanding of the occupational therapy program.

10.Compose reports that meet established standards of practice and complete reports with specified timelines.

11.Compile, maintain, and file all reports, records, and other documents as required by federal and state rules and regulations and district policy and procedures.

12.Comply with federal and state law, Commissioner's Rules, and district policy and procedures.

13.Present a positive role model for students that supports the mission of the school district.

14.Maintain a positive and effective relationship with supervisors.

15.Assess and respond to needs related to job responsibilities.

16.Effectively communicate with colleagues, students, and parents.

17.Assess and respond to needs related to job responsibilities.

18.Assist in the selection of materials, equipment, and other adaptive materials.

19.Develop and maintain effective relationships with students and peers.

20.Consult with parents, teachers, administrators, and other relevant individuals to enhance their work with students.

21.Demonstrate behavior that is professional, ethical, and responsible therapy to the community and solicit its support.

22.Complete all other duties assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities :

None

Mental Demands / Physical Demands / Environmental Factors :

Tools / Equipment Used : Standard office equipment including computer and peripherals; standard instructional equipment.

Posture : Prolonged standing; frequent kneeling / squatting, bending / stooping, pushing / pulling, and twisting

Motion : Frequent walking

Lifting : Ability to lift and carry 50lbs.

Environment : May work prolonged or irregular hours; occasional districtwide and statewide travel

Mental Demands : Maintain emotional control under stress; work prolonged or irregular hours

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.

Midway Independent School District does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, military status or on any other basis prohibited by law. Employment decisions will be made on the basis of each applicant's job qualifications, experience, and abilities. The Title IX Coordinator for Midway ISD is the Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources. 13885 Woodway Drive, Woodway, Texas 76712. Contact phone number is 254-761-5610.