Poteet ISD is accepting applications for the 2024-2025 school year.

Job Title:         Occupational Therapist                                     Exemption Status/Test: Exempt

Reports to:      Director of Special Education Co-op                  Date Revised:

Dept./School:  Assigned Campus(es)

Primary Purpose:

Plan and provide therapy to students with mental, physical, or emotional disabilities. Provide therapeutic intervention to maximize physical or mental functioning, increase independent functioning, and/or adjust to disabilities.

Qualifications:

Education/Certification:

Bachelors’ degree in occupational therapy or related progrma

Valid Texas license as an occupational therapist granted by the Texas Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners (TBOTE)

Special Knowledge/Skills:

Knowledge of rehabilitation procedures, activities, and equipment used in occupational therapy

Ability to instruct students and manage their behavior

Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills

Experience:

One year experience as an occupational therapist

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

Therapy

1. Plan and provide direct and consultative services consistent with occupational therapy goals contained in students’ Individual Education Plans (IEP). Evaluate student progress and make recommendations regarding occupational therapy services.
2. Design, construct, alter, and provide students with adaptive equipment and devices to promote maximum independence.
3. Assess students with disabilities and determine eligibility for services.

Assessment

1. Assess students with disabilities and determine eligibility for services.
2. Participate in the Admission, Review and Dismissal (ARD) Committee to assist with the interpretation of assessment data, appropriate placement, and goal setting for students according to district procedures.

Consultation

1. Consult with educational staff and parents regarding occupational therapy.
2. Provide staff development training in assigned schools to assist school personnel with selection and use of adaptive equipment and understanding of occupational therapy program.
3. Consult with parents, teachers, administrators, and other relevant people to enhance their work with students.

Student Management

1. Create an environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the maturity level, interests, and needs of the student.
2. Establish control and administer discipline according to the Student Code of Conduct and student handbook.

Program Management

1. Develop and coordinate a continuing evaluation of the occupational therapy program and implement changes based on the findings.
2. Assist in the selection of equipment and adaptive materials.
3. Develop and maintain effective individual and group relationships with students and parents.

Administration

1. Compile, maintain, and file all reports, records and other documents required.
2. Comply with policies established by federal and state law, State Board of Education rule, and local board policy. Comply with all district and campus routines and regulations.
3. Comply with all district and assigned campus routines and regulations.
4. Effectively communicate with colleagues, students, and parents.
5. Participate in professional development activities to improve skills related to job assignments.
6. Follow district safety protocols and emergency procedures.
7. Promote teamwork and interaction with fellow staff members.
8. Other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

Supervise the work of the occupational therapy assistant(s).

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

Tools/Equipment Used: Special needs adaptive equipment; standard office equipment including computer and peripherals

Posture: Frequent standing, sitting, kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing pulling, and twisting

Motion: Frequent walking, grasping/squeezing, wrist flexion/extension

Lifting: Regular heavy lifting (45 pounds or more) and position of students with physical disabilities; controlling behavior through physical restraint, assisting non-ambulatory students

Environment: Exposure to biological hazards, bacteria, and communicable diseases; may require districtwide travel

Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress