Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant

GENERAL DEFINITION OF WORK

The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) supports the implementation of occupational therapy services under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist. The COTA assists in delivering therapy interventions, monitoring student progress, and collaborating with educational staff to facilitate students' access to the educational curriculum. Services are provided in accordance with students' IEPs and in compliance with IDEA and VDOE regulations.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Implement occupational therapy interventions as directed by the supervising OT.
• Assist in collecting data and documenting student progress toward IEP goals.
• Maintain accurate service logs and documentation in compliance with VDOE and division policies.
• Collaborate with teachers and staff to support the integration of therapy strategies into classroom activities.
• Prepare and maintain therapy materials and equipment.
• Provide input during team meetings regarding student performance and progress.
• Participate in professional development activities to enhance skills and knowledge.
• Support students in developing fine motor skills, sensory processing abilities, and self-care routines essential for school participation.
• Assist in adapting classroom materials and environments to meet students' needs.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Services for Exceptional Children.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Thorough understanding of pediatric occupational therapy principles and practices.
• Knowledge of IDEA, VDOE regulations, and school-based service delivery models.
• Ability to develop and implement effective therapy plans within the school setting.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills with multidisciplinary teams.
Proficiency in maintaining accurate records and documentation.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Associate's degree from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program.
• Current Virginia certification as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant.
Experience in a school-based setting preferred.

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PHYSICAL CONDITIONS AND NATURE OF WORK CONTACTS

Work is performed in school environments, requiring mobility and the ability to assist students physically. Regular coordination with school administrators is necessary. Daily liaison activity throughout the division is necessary. Contact with media personnel may be required. Attendance of school division activities is necessary. Regular contact is made with teachers, parents, students, and other community members. These contacts may be contentious. Occasional contact with state administrators and representatives of federal agencies is necessary. Travel between school sites will be required.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

10 months (200 days); at least 8 hours per day

EVALUATION

Performance evaluation will be conducted annually by the Director II - Services for Exceptional Children on the effectiveness by which the employee has carried out the above responsibilities.

This job description is intended to accurately reflect the position activities and requirements. It is neither intended to be, nor should it be construed as, an all-inclusive list of the responsibilities, skills or working conditions associated with the position. Administration reserves the right to modify, assign, or remove duties as necessary.