What are the responsibilities and job description for the Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant position at KIPP Columbus?
Job Description
The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant will be licensed by the Ohio Department of Education & Workforce with a minimum of 1 year experience as a school-based COTA.
A summary of responsibilities include, but not limited to :
Implement treatment plans designed by the supervising OT to address student goals related to fine motor skills, sensory processing, coordination, and other areas of occupational functioning.
Monitor student progress and report data back to the supervising OT to assess effectiveness and make necessary adjustments.
Conduct individual and group therapy sessions as directed by the OT, following the treatment plans and IEP goals.
Provide hands-on therapeutic interventions to enhance student functional skills, including fine motor development, sensory processing, self-care skills, and school-based tasks.
Support students in their physical, sensory, and emotional development through structured therapy sessions.
Assist the OT in gathering data for evaluations, assessments, and observations of students’ abilities in relation to their goals.
Participate in IEP meetings, offering insights into student progress and recommending therapeutic approaches.
Collect and document student progress data based on observation, student performance, and other objective measures.
Maintain accurate, timely, and organized records of therapy services, including progress notes, treatment plans, and student outcomes.
Ensure that all documentation adheres to school and legal requirements, including compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Prepare reports and update student records in collaboration with the OT.
Work closely with the OT to review and discuss progress and challenges for students receiving services.
Collaborate with classroom teachers, special education staff, and other professionals to integrate therapy goals into the school day and support students in the least restrictive environment.
Communicate regularly with parents / guardians regarding progress and any concerns regarding therapy interventions.
Assist in modifying classroom environments and activities to meet the needs of students requiring occupational therapy.
Provide suggestions and recommendations to teachers and staff for classroom adaptations and accommodations.
Participate in school meetings, IEP planning, and team discussions as needed.
Engage in continuing education and training to stay current with best practices in school-based occupational therapy and related services.
Attend and participate in staff meetings, workshops, and professional development opportunities as required.
Qualifications
Minimum of 1 year experience as a school-based COTA
Minimum of an Associate’s Degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program
Successful completion of the NBCOT (National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy) certification exam
Active Ohio Department of Education and Workforce Pupil Services License as an COTA
Knowledge of common developmental disabilities, sensory processing disorders, and academic challenges faced by students with disabilities
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written.
Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Familiarity with IEPs, IDEA, and the legal framework of special education services.
Ability to maintain patient and empathetic communication with students, families, and staff.
Organizational skills and the ability to document and track progress consistently.
The COTA must be able to stand, bend, lift, and support students during therapy sessions.
Must be capable of assisting with physical tasks such as setting up therapy stations, lifting therapy materials, and supporting students during activities.
Must be able to provide therapy in various settings within the school, including classrooms, gymnasiums, and sensory rooms.
Extreme flexibility, with a strong work ethic and an entrepreneurial spirit to accommodate high levels of responsibility and multiple priorities
Model the values of KIPP Columbus (Imagine, Navigate, Seek, Persevere, Integrity, Responsibility, and Empathy)
Travel may be required
Additional Information
Compensation and Benefits
KIPP Columbus offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefit plan including medical and dental insurance, as well as group term life insurance, retirement plan and paid time off.
Statement of Non-Disclosure
KIPP Columbus is committed to a policy of equal treatment for all individuals applying to the school for consideration of any position (admission, employment, etc.). KIPP Columbus does not discriminate on the basis of disability, gender, nationality, race or ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic that is contained in the definition of hate crimes set forth in Section 4112.02 of the Ohio Revised Code.
