Occupational Therapist at Florence Unified School District #1 in Florence, AZ

Job description

Position Overview: The Occupational Therapist (OT) provides services to students with disabilities in a K-12 public school setting. The primary role of the OT is to assess, plan, and implement individualized therapeutic interventions to support students in developing the skills necessary for daily functional activities in the school environment. These interventions may address motor skills, sensory processing, self-regulation, adaptive behavior, and functional skills to promote academic success and social participation. Key Responsibilities: Assessment and Evaluation: Conduct thorough assessments to determine students' needs, strengths, and areas of concern related to motor skills, sensory processing, and daily living tasks. Administer standardized tests, observations, and functional assessments to develop individualized therapy plans. Collaborate with teachers, parents, and other professionals to gather comprehensive data regarding each student's needs. Therapeutic Intervention: Develop and implement individualized occupational therapy treatment plans that align with students' educational goals and IEP (Individualized Education Program). Provide direct therapy services to students in both individual and small group settings, targeting skills such as fine and gross motor coordination, sensory integration, visual-motor integration, and self-regulation. Use therapeutic techniques and equipment to promote independence in activities of daily living, classroom participation, and social interaction. Collaborative Support: Work closely with teachers, school staff, and other service providers (speech therapists, psychologists, special education staff) to create a cohesive, team-based approach to student support. Provide consultation and recommendations to teachers regarding classroom modifications, accommodations, and strategies to support students' functional skills and academic success. Support staff in managing classroom behaviors through sensory-based interventions and adaptive strategies. IEP Development and Documentation: Participate in IEP meetings and contribute to the development of goals, objectives, and progress monitoring for students receiving occupational therapy services. Maintain accurate, timely documentation of student progress, therapy sessions, and assessments in accordance with district policies and regulatory requirements. Ensure that all therapy plans and interventions comply with state and federal laws, including IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act). Professional Development: Stay current with research, best practices, and advancements in the field of occupational therapy, particularly within the educational setting. Participate in professional development opportunities, workshops, and conferences to continually improve service delivery. Engage in ongoing supervision, peer collaboration, and case discussions to enhance professional skills and competencies. Family and Community Engagement: Communicate effectively with parents and caregivers about their child's progress and therapy goals. Provide strategies for home-based interventions and support to help reinforce skills developed in therapy. Act as a resource to parents and staff on topics related to child development, sensory processing, and functional independence. **This job description serves as a general overview of the key responsibilities and qualifications of the Occupational Therapist position. It is not an exhaustive list of duties, and the school district may amend this description as needed. ** Qualifications: Education and Certification: Master's degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program. Active state licensure as an Occupational Therapist (or eligibility for licensure). Certification by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) is preferred. Knowledge of current K-12 educational practices, IDEA, Section 504, and other relevant regulations is preferred. Experience: Previous experience working