Occupational Therapist (Level 2) - 7.25hrs, Cooper Elementary

JD132

Occupational Therapist
Job Description

Purpose: The Occupational Therapist (OT) assists students in gaining

functional independence so that they can more completely benefit
from the educational environment. In order to respond to the
individual needs abilities of students, the Occupational Therapist
must work closely with the staff and administration of Derby Public
Schools.

Responsible to: Director of Special Services

Salary: Level 2 on the Related Services hourly rate schedule

Classification of Employment: Non-Exempt

Date: July 2019

Qualifications:

1. Bachelors degree from an accredited college/university.
2. Current Occupational Therapist Certificate on file in the Central Office.
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. Assist in the early recognition and prevention of educational concerns.
2. Conduct occupational therapy evaluations to determine the need for OT as a

related service.
3. Participate as a team member in the comprehensive evaluation, review and re-

evaluation processes.
4. Participate in the development of student’s Individual Education Plan (IEP).
5. Monitor student progress and make informed, timely educational decisions.
6. Adhere to required program guidelines as defined by the Kansas Plan for Special

Education.
7. Consult with parents, teachers administrators and others concerning the needs of

students and special services that are available.
8. Assist teachers in the development and implementation of curriculum

accommodations/modifications and appropriate classroom strategies.
9. Provide appropriate information to students and families regarding community

agencies and services available to them.
10. Cooperate with agencies serving students and their families.
11. Plan and implement effective occupational therapy interventions based on the

student’s IEP.
12. Motivate students through effective communication and evaluative feedback.
13. Demonstrate awareness of the needs of students and provide for individual

differences.
14. Set high expectations for student achievements and behavior.
15. Demonstrate effective interpersonal relationships with others.
16. Establish and maintain a positive climate for learning through appropriate

classroom management and interprofessional collaboration.
17. Plan and implement transition strategies for students who are exiting services,

moving to a new location, or participating in novel activities.
18. Assist students in developing feelings of self-worth and in making social

adjustments that permit them to cope with disabilities.
19. Maintain appropriate confidential records and provide timely reports.
20. Order and maintain an adequate inventory of materials and supplies.
21. Assist with public awareness activities that lead to a better understanding of the

needs of exceptional children.
22. Keep abreast of new information, innovative ideas and techniques that target

exceptional children.
23. Obtain prior approval for all special activities and expenditures.
24. Adhere to all district health and safety policies.
25. Other duties as assigned by the Director of Special Services which are

consistent with the general requirements and qualifications for the position.