SUMMARY: Use purposeful, goal directed activities and task analysis to enable a child with a disability to benefit from their Individualized Education Program (IEP). Federal law mandates that occupational therapy (OT) in the school system be educationally relevant. The focus of OT services in a school setting is to promote functional independence or participation within the educational environment. Occupational therapy services may be delivered directly to the child, on behalf of the child (consultation with parents and teachers) or through modifications and support for school personnel that will be provided for the child (training for staff).
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
Facilitate any or all of the following areas that may interfere with a child's educational performance: self-help skills (feeding, dressing, hygiene); fine, gross and visual motor skills; sensory processing and visual processing skills; positioning, functional mobility and transitions; functional communication through alternative methods; and adaptive devices/equipment and using educational tools/toys.
Administer and interpret educationally relevant assessments to determine why a problem is occurring and identify possible solutions.
Provide consultation services to educational personnel, families and other medical personnel as needed.
Participate on a multi-disciplinary team in the development of a student's IEP.
Communicate effectively both verbally and in written form to coordinate services.
Consult with school personnel regarding best practices for the classroom; collaborate with school personnel to design, implement and coordinate individualized educational programs.
Use a problem-solving process and participate in professional development opportunities.
Input information into ezEDMed system for reimbursement purposes.
Other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS: Must hold a Special Service Provider License from the Colorado Department of Education or be eligible for a three year Special Service Provider Licensed. Must be certified by the National Certification Board of Occupational Therapists (NCBOT), and Department of Regulatory Agency (DORA) prior to hire.
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Ability to travel between schools/sites served. Normal routine levels of activity related to bending, carrying, climbing, hearing, reaching, sitting, standing, vision and walking, and may also involve above-average levels of activity at times that can not always be anticipated. Ability to lift and carry equipment, such as large test kits, up to 35 pounds.
Ability to meet physical needs of students.