Job Description
Farmington Public Schools is seeking an experienced Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant COTA starting August 30 2026
General Description
Under the direction of the Occupational Therapist the Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant COTA provides educational occupational therapy services to students in our Student Learning Center programs Preschool through High School who require adaptive and functional skills curriculum with our specialized programs. The COTA contributes to developing individualized intervention plans collaborates with teachers and parents and ensures compliance with federal and state regulations. The COTA makes a tangible difference in the lives of students by promoting their independence and facilitating their success in the classroom.
Qualifications
Associates degree form an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program
Certification as an Occupational Therapy Assistant by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy NBCOT
Licensure from the CT Dept of Public Health
Minimum oftwo 2 years of experiencepreferred in a school setting.
Current certification in Physical Management Training PMT or Crisis Prevention Intervention CPI preferred
Experience using assistive technology and adaptive equipment in educational settings
Knowledge of educational policies and procedures related to special education and IEPs
Familiarity with sensory integration techniques and developmental milestones
Strong communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with students staff and families
Problem solving skills to address diverse challenges students may face in the school environment
Experience working with students with Autism Intellectual Disabilities and medically complex needs.
Salary 52000 - 72300 commensurate with experience
Reports To Occupational Therapist
Supervisory Responsibilities None
Work Schedule One hundred eighty 180 school days. Ability to work ESY Summer programming preferred.
Duties and Responsibilities
Assist in the assessment of students needs and abilities under the supervision of an Occupational Therapist
Implement individualized therapy plans to improve students fine motor skills sensory processing and coordination
Collaborate with teachers and other school staff to integrate occupational therapy strategies into the classroom
Adapt learning materials and classroom environments to accommodate students with diverse needs
Monitor and document students progress adjusting interventions as necessary
Provide direct support and guidance to students in developing self-care and daily living skills
Facilitate group therapy sessions to promote social interaction and peer engagement
Participate in meetings and contribute to developing and reviewing individualized education plans IEPs
Educate teachers and parents on strategies to support students occupational therapy goals at home and school
Stay informed on current practices in pediatric occupational therapy and implement evidence-based strategies
Maintain compliance with school policies and state regulations regarding occupational therapy services.
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 andor support up to 50 pounds andor 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.
Please submit a resume and two reference letters in addition to your online application.
It is the policy of the Farmington Board of Education that no person shall be excluded from participation in denied the benefits of or otherwise discriminated against under any program including employment on the basis of race color religious creed sex age national origin ancestry marital status sexual orientation pastpresent history of mental disorder learning disability andor physical disability. Questions concerning Title IV or Title XI compliance should be directed toVeronica Ruzek 14 Monteith Drive Farmington CT 06032 860-673-8270. Questions concerning Section 504 compliance should be directed to Dr. Wendy Shepard-Bannish 14 Monteith Drive Farmington CT 06032 860-677-1791.