The Substitute Occupational Therapist helps students improve basic motor functions, along with cognitive and emotional abilities, and compensates for loss of function to lead students to experience independent, productive, and satisfying lives.For an approximate 4-week coverage period, the OT Substitute provides continuum-of-care services for standard OT staff, implementing existing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and Section 504 plans for elementary and middle school students. Additionally, the Substitute OT provides clinical guidance, support, and oversight to district Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs) to ensure seamless service delivery.
Direct Service & Program Delivery
Execute established therapeutic interventions, activities, and accommodation plans tailored to individual student needs in alignment with existing IEP/504 goals.
Support students in developing fine motor control, gross motor planning, visual-motor integration, visual perception, sensory processing, and self-care skills necessary for active participation in the academic environment.
Facilitate strategies that enhance self-regulation, attention, motor planning, and emotional coping mechanisms within the classroom setting.
COTA Support & Collaboration
Provide required supervision, guidance, and consultation to district Occupational Therapy Assistants (COTAs/OTAs) in accordance with state licensure board regulations and professional guidelines.
Review treatments delivered by the OTA to ensure continuity of care, provide clinical support on complex cases, and adjust intervention plans as needed.
Work collaboratively with the COTA to coordinate schedules, co-treat when necessary, and ensure therapy goals remain aligned across all student caseloads.
Classroom Integration & Adaptation
Consult with general education teachers, special education staff, and instructional aides on classroom push-in strategies, sensory breaks, and positioning/handling techniques.
Monitor and facilitate the safe use of adaptive seating, writing aids, sensory tools, and assistive technology devices.
Record Keeping & Professional Responsibilities
Maintain accurate daily logs of service minutes, student progress, and attendance in compliance with district, state, and federal mandates.
Provide detailed handoff notes to the primary Occupational Therapist upon their return regarding student progress, session updates, and COTA supervisory touchpoints.
Adhere to district policies, health and safety regulations, student privacy laws (FERPA/HIPAA), and professional ethical standards.
Qualifications & Requirements
Valid State License as an Occupational Therapist.
NBCOT (National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy) certification.
Valid State School Services Personnel Certificate / Credential (as required by state law).
Experience working with pediatric populations or in an educational/school setting (Grades K–8 preferred).
Knowledge of/experience with OTA clinical oversight and collaborative care models.
Strong understanding of pediatric development, motor learning, and sensory integration.
Knowledge of special education laws (IDEA, Section 504) and IEP processes.
Excellent communication, team collaboration, and supervisory skills.
Physical & Environmental Demands
Ability to physically assist students and safely implement therapeutic techniques using proper body mechanics.
Ability to move dynamically throughout the school day (bending, kneeling, sitting on the floor, crouching, and moving between classrooms/buildings).