What are the responsibilities and job description for the Occupational Therapist position at Copperas Cove ISD?
JOB TITLE: Occupational Therapist
HOUR STATUS: Exempt
REPORTS TO: Director of Special Education
PAY GRADE: AP7/197 days
DEPT./SCHOOL: Special Education
DATE REVISED: 07/2025
PRIMARY PURPOSE:
The Occupational Therapist provides specialized services to help students develop, recover, or maintain daily living and school-related skills. The therapist works with students with disabilities, addressing physical, sensory, cognitive, and psychosocial challenges to enhance their ability to participate fully in school activities and achieve academic success.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in occupational therapy or related program or COTA certification.
Valid Texas license as an occupational therapist granted by the Texas Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners
Experience:
One year experience as an Occupational Therapist or Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant within the educational setting.
Experience working with children with a wide range of disabilities, including physical, sensory, and developmental challenges.
Skills & Abilities:
Strong understanding of child development, sensory processing, and motor skills.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with a diverse team.
Proficiency in using assessment tools and technology for documentation and treatment planning.
Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple cases effectively.
Other duties as assigned.
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:
Assessment & Evaluation:
Conduct comprehensive assessments of students' motor, sensory processing, self-care, and functional skills to determine their needs and eligibility for occupational therapy services.
Use standardized and non-standardized tools to evaluate students’ abilities and develop tailored intervention plans.
Analyze and interpret assessment data to set goals and establish individualized therapy programs.
Intervention & Therapy:
Design and implement individualized occupational therapy programs to improve students’ fine motor skills, sensory processing, and activities of daily living.
Collaborate with teachers, parents, and other professionals to integrate therapeutic strategies into the classroom and home environments.
Provide direct therapy to students individually or in small groups, focusing on improving their ability to perform tasks and participate in school activities.
Consultation & Collaboration:
Work closely with educators, speech therapists, physical therapists, and other specialists to support student learning and participation.
Provide training and resources to teachers and staff on strategies to accommodate students' motor and sensory needs in the classroom.
Serve as a resource for parents, offering guidance on activities and modifications that support their child’s development and independence.
Documentation & Compliance:
Maintain accurate records of assessments, treatment plans, therapy sessions, and student progress.
Prepare reports and participate in IEP (Individualized Education Plan) meetings, contributing to the development of educational goals and accommodations.
Ensure compliance with state and federal regulations, including IDEA and Section 504, and adhere to professional and ethical standards in occupational therapy.
Professional Development:
Participate in ongoing professional development to stay current with best practices, new techniques, and emerging trends in occupational therapy.
Contribute to the professional growth of colleagues through mentorship, workshops, and collaborative problem-solving.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
School-based environment with potential travel between school sites.
Must be able to work with students of varying ages, abilities, and needs.
The foregoing statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills that may be required.
Copperas Cove ISD does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, disability, or age in its programs, activities or employment practices.
For inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies, contact: Executive Director of Human Resources, (254) 547-1227, 408 S. Main, Copperas Cove, TX 76522
Benefits:
Health Insurance, Retirement Plan, Vacation & Paid Time Off