Music Therapist

FEDERALLY FUNDED:  The salary for this position may be funded through federal grants. As a federally funded role, it is considered supplemental and contingent upon the continued availability of federal funding.

ROLE & PURPOSE

Utilize music therapy strategies and techniques as an educational related service to promote learning and skill acquisition in domain areas related to the scope of special education curriculum and programming.

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION

• Valid Driver's License
• Bachelor's Degree or higher in Music Therapy
• Board Certified as a Music Therapist or eligible for certification as a Music Therapist
• Mentally and physically fit to perform duties
• Adheres to standard of practice of the American Music Therapy Association

EXPERIENCE

• At least one year's experience in a school setting is preferred               

SPECIAL KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS

• Knowledge of development in children ages 0-21 and grade level TEKS based instruction.
• Thorough knowledge of children that present with a variety of disabilities, diagnoses and developmental delays.
• Knowledge of related services in Special Education and its procedures in supporting an IEP.
• Understanding and use of adaptive equipment and/or devices used for communication and access to instruction.
• The ability to communicate effectively and work cooperatively with school staff, district professionals and parents.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES

I. INSTRUCTIONAL MANAGEMENT

• Provide music therapy services within multiple classrooms in various educational settings throughout the district, develop a schedule of these services while maintaining a professional relationship with school staff.
• Use district approved music therapy assessment tools to determine educational needs.
• Identify and support IEP goals and objectives for students receiving music therapy services.
• Provide consultation regarding music therapy in the educational setting as well as modifications and accommodations required for students to increase achievement within the educational setting.
• Maintain documentation and data collection necessary for development and implementation of music therapy services.

II. SHARED RESPONSIBILITIES

• Consult with and make recommendations to school personnel, parents and outside agencies regarding how music therapy relates to the educational goals for students with special needs.
• Maintain departmental budget in consultation with district administrator.
• Serve as a non-voting member of the Individual Educational Planning Committee, as necessary

III. STUDENT MANAGEMENT

• SHARS / MAC / RMTS: Participate in the district's Medicaid initiatives. Arlington ISD participates in the School Health and Related Services (SHARS) and MAC programs, which allows the district to request Medicaid reimbursement for certain health-related services provided. The ARD/IEP committee determines SHARS services
• SHARS Providers: Train, provide, and document billable SHARS/direct medical services provided to students with SHARS services ordered in their IEP
• RMTS: If selected, participate in Random Moment in Time Study (RMTS).
• MAC: Directly support the provision of services covered under the Texas Medicaid State Plan; provide or supervise direct medical services/care such as personal care, medical care, escorting, and/or feeding of students as stated in the IEP

IV. PROFESSIONAL GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT

• Continue to pursue professional development by attending conferences of other professional growth opportunities.
• Attend scheduled staff and in-service meetings.
• Stay abreast of current research in the field of education.

V. OTHER DUTIES

• Demonstrate a high level of independent, ethical and professional conduct
• Upholds and adheres to safety rules and policies of the Arlington ISD.
• Any other responsibilities as designated by the Curriculum Coordinator and/or Director of Special Education.

VI. WORKING CONDITIONS

      MENTAL DEMANDS / PHYSICAL DEMANDS / ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS

• Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office equipment including computer and peripherals; standard instructional equipment.
• Posture: Moderate standing; occasional kneeling, squatting, bending, and stooping
• Motion: Moderate walking
• Lifting: Regular light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds)
• Environment: Work inside and outside (exposure to sun, heat, cold, and inclement weather); exposure to noise
• Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress, with frequent interruptions.