Occupational Therapy Assistant (Level 1) - 7.25hrs, Cooper Elementary

JD494 Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA)

Job Description Purpose:

The Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA) works under the direction of a licensed Occupational Therapist to assist students in gaining functional independence so that they can more completely benefit from the educational environment. In order to respond to the individual needs and abilities of students, the Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant must work closely with the staff and administration of school district Derby Public Schools.

Responsible to:

Director of Special Services and Licensed Occupational Therapist.

Salary:

Related Services Hourly Rate Schedule, Level 1

Classification of Employment:

Non-Exempt Date:

July 2019

Qualifications:

1. Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants degree from an accredited program recognized by the Kansas Board of Healing Arts. 2. Current COTA Licensure in the state of Kansas 3. Valid Kansas driver's license. 4. Desire to continue career improvement.

Essential Functions:

1. Knowledge, Skill and Abilities a. Assist students in gaining functional independence so that they can more completely benefit from the educational environment. b. Establish a positive learning environment and respond to the individual needs of students. c. Ensure that all activities conform to district guidelines. d. Communicate effectively with all members of the school district and community. e. Work effectively with community organizations. f. Appropriately operate all equipment as required. g. React to change productively and handle other tasks as assigned. h. Support the value of an education. i. Support the philosophy and mission of the school district. j. Comply with all district policies, rules and regulations. 2.

Physical Requirements/Environmental Conditions:

a. Requires the ability to sit and/or stand for prolonged periods. b. Occasionally requires the ability to move, lift, carry, pull or push heavy objects or materials. c. Occasionally requires the ability to stoop, bend and reach. d. Requires extensive use of hands. e. Requires the ability to occasionally travel. f. Must be able to work in noisy and crowded environments. g. Requires regular attendance and/or physical presence at the job.

General Responsibilities:

1. Respond quickly to newly identified students who have OT services designated on the Individual Education Plan (IEP). 2. Quickly report newly recognized educational concerns to the OT. 3. Collect observational data as directed by the occupational therapist to assist with progress reports or evaluations. 4. Monitor student progress and make informed, timely educational decisions. 5. Adhere to required program guidelines as defined by the Kansas Plan for Special Education. 6. Assist teachers in the development and implementation of curriculum accommodations/ modifications and appropriate classroom strategies. 7. Plan and implement effective occupational therapy interventions based on the student's IEP. 8. Motivate students through effective communication and evaluative feedback. 9. Demonstrate awareness of the needs of students and provide for individual differences. 10. Set high expectations for student achievements and behavior. 11. Demonstrate effective interpersonal relationships with others. 12. Establish and maintain a positive climate for learning through appropriate classroom management and interprofessional collaboration. 13. Plan and implement transition strategies for students who are exiting services, moving to a new location, or participating in novel activities. 14. Assist students in developing feelings of self-worth and in making social adjustments that permit them to cope with disabilities. 15. Maintain appropriate confidential records and provide timely reports. 16. Keep abreast of new information, innovative ideas and techniques that target exceptional children. 17. Obtain prior approval for all special activities and expenditures. 18. Adhere to all district health and safety policies. 19. Other duties as assigned by the Director of Special Services or Licensed Occupational Therapist, which are consistent with the general requirements and qualifications for the position.