Occupational Therapist
Position Summary
The Occupational Therapist (OT) provides evaluation, intervention, consultation, and support services to students with disabilities and other identified needs in educational settings. The OT collaborates with educators, families, and multidisciplinary teams to enhance students'' participation, independence, access to the curriculum, and engagement in school-related activities. Services are provided in accordance with state and federal special education regulations and district policies.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Evaluation and Assessment
Conduct occupational therapy evaluations and re-evaluations to determine students'' educational needs.
Select, administer, and interpret appropriate assessment tools and measures.
Analyze evaluation data and prepare comprehensive written reports.
Participate in eligibility determination and Individualized Education Program (IEP) team meetings.
Direct and Indirect Services
Provide occupational therapy services as outlined in students'' IEPs.
Develop and implement evidence-based intervention plans to support educational participation and functional performance.
Address areas including fine motor skills, visual-motor integration, sensory processing, self-regulation, self-care, assistive technology, and environmental access.
Utilize a variety of service delivery models, including direct therapy, consultation, collaboration, and classroom-based interventions.
Collaboration and Consultation
Collaborate with teachers, special education staff, related service providers, administrators, and families to support student success.
Provide recommendations regarding accommodations, modifications, adaptive equipment, and environmental supports.
Assist staff in implementing strategies that promote student participation and independence across school environments.
Support inclusive practices and participation in the least restrictive environment.
Documentation and Compliance
Maintain accurate and timely documentation, including service logs, progress reports, evaluation reports, and Medicaid documentation as applicable.
Monitor and report student progress toward IEP goals.
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and district special education requirements.
Maintain confidentiality of student information and records.
Professional Responsibilities
Participate in IEP meetings, staff meetings, professional learning activities, and district initiatives.
Stay current with best practices, research, and legal requirements related to occupational therapy and special education.
Maintain professional licensure and continuing education requirements.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Student Services or designee.
Qualifications
Required
Bachelor''s, Master''s, or Doctoral degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program.
Current Wisconsin Occupational Therapist license (or eligibility for licensure).
National Board Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
Eligibility to work in Wisconsin schools.
Knowledge of special education laws, regulations, and procedures.
Strong interpersonal, communication, organizational, and collaboration skills.
Preferred
Previous experience working in a school setting.
Experience with collaboration and collaborative goal writing, assistive technology, sensory processing interventions, and inclusive educational practices.
Knowledge of IEP development and implementation.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Ability to assess student needs and develop appropriate educationally relevant interventions.
Ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams and families.
Ability to prioritize tasks, manage caseload responsibilities, and meet deadlines.
Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
Ability to maintain accurate records and documentation.
Reports To
Elementary Program Support Coordinator