Southbridge Public Schools serve approximately 2,000 students across six schools-and we are in the midst of an exciting and measurable transformation. With support from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, we're seeing real gains in student achievement and school culture. Twice recognized as a Gold-Level PBIS District, we're proud of the academic growth our students are demonstrating and the positive momentum building across K-12. This progress is fueled by passionate educators, high-quality curriculum, targeted professional development, and an unwavering commitment to our students.
Many of our learners face significant challenges, but our educators don't see limits-they see potential. We are a team that believes in the power of high expectations, strong relationships, and consistent support to drive student success. As we continue to accelerate our progress, we're seeking educators who are committed, reflective, and ready to collaborate in a learning-focused, student-centered environment.
If you're ready to make a meaningful difference and grow as part of a dedicated team, consider building your career with Southbridge Public Schools.
Job Title: OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST
JOB SUMMARY: Under the direction of the Director of Special Education, the Occupational Therapist provides educational occupational therapy services to students and IEP team members. The Occupational Therapist is responsible for the proper interpretation and performance of essential duties and responsibilities.
Essential functions of the job may include but are not limited to the following:
- Screens and/or evaluates students who have been referred to occupational therapy in the areas of fine motor performance, coordination, postural stability, perceptual motor performance, sensory processing and self-regulation and activities of daily living/functional skills (such as written productions and classroom tool use) with emphasis on present level of performance as related to academic functioning.
- Oversees and assigns therapy groups to Occupational Assistant (COTa).
- Consults and collaborates with teachers and other specialists regarding appropriate motor activities, self-help skills, sensory needs, adaptations, and special equipment or assistive devices as necessary.
- Implement educational plans as describe on individual IEP/504 and provide information for building staff as needed.
- Provides monitoring, consultation, direct or indirect occupational therapy for selected students who are eligible for such services.
- Maintains close communication with classroom teachers, other staff and parents concerning student's performance.
- Maintains accurate records of students evaluated and served in occupational therapy program; including assessment results, IEP progress and other documentation or reports as needed.
- Participates in designated team meetings, individual education plan conferences and periodic reviews involving assessment, programming and reevaluation decisions.
- Maintain appropriate records and reports. Collect data on progress on goals and objectives for each student and meet all required timelines.
Other functions of the job include but are not limited to the following:
- Orders and maintains equipment and check out system.
- Designs, orders or constructs adaptive equipment and assistive devices and other classroom support items.
- Participates in in-services and organizational meetings for Special Services.
- Participates in professional development by attending in-services, workshops, conferences and classes.
- Maintains close communication with the Director of Special Education.
- Promotes school and community awareness of occupational therapy.
- When requested, serves on school district and/or community policy-making committees in an advisory capacity.
- Complies with School Board policies and all state/federal rules and regulations.
- Completes all district and state reporting requirements.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Knowledge Skills and Ability Required:
- Must be licensed occupational therapist (OT).
- Current certification in Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI).
- Experience in developing and implementing a variety of behavior strategies and interventions for effective programming, including functional behavioral assessments.
- Experience implementing strategies for improving social skills.
- Thorough knowledge of school rules, regulations and procedures; ability to establish and maintain standards of behavior.
- Ability to deliver and articulate oral presentations and written reports.
- Ability to effectively an analyze needs and problems objectively.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with children, students, parents, staff, administration and the general public.
- Perform all other related work delegated or required to accomplish the objectives of the total school program.
- Knowledge of relevant technology including the use of technology such as i-pads to individualize instruction.
- Must have the ability and proven ability to report to work on a regular and punctual basis.
Physical Requirements: Regularly required to sit, stand, walk, talk, hear, operate a computer and other office equipment, reach with hands and arms, and must occasionally lift, move and/or support up to 50 pounds (and/or up to adult size body weight with two-to-three person lift). Position can require some degree of physical interaction with students who have difficulty controlling physical behavior.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Southbridge Public Schools is committed to maintaining a work and learning environment free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, national origin, sex, gender identity, disability, religion, age, or sexual orientation.