Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)-Special Education

Primary Purpose:

Administer direct and indirect occupational therapy services to students with mental, physical, or emotional disabilities under the supervision of a licensed occupational therapist. The goal is to support students' ability to benefit from their special education program and participate effectively in the educational environment.

Qualifications:

Education/Certification:

Associate’s degree from an accredited occupational therapy assistant program

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) credential

Licensed by the State of Texas as an occupational therapy assistant

Special Knowledge/Skills:

Knowledge of rehabilitation procedures, techniques, and equipment

Ability to implement therapy programs and adapt activities to student needs

Strong skills in organization, communication, and interpersonal relationships

Ability to manage student behavior and work collaboratively across settings

Ability to prioritize, problem-solve, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment

Experience:

Pediatric and/or school-based therapy experience preferred, but not required

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

            Direct Services:

1. Implement treatment plans developed by the supervising occupational therapist
2. Deliver safe, appropriate, and effective therapy interventions
3. Monitor student responses to therapy and adjust approaches as needed
4. Maintain ongoing documentation of student progress and treatment outcomes
5. Participate in ARD/IEP meetings to support student goal development
   

Consultation:

1. Collaborate with teachers, administrators, and families to support student success
2. Provide training to staff and parents regarding occupational therapy strategies and equipment
3. Assist with in-home support or training as needed
4. Recommend adaptations and tools to support student access and engagement

Student Management:

1. Support a safe, positive learning environment appropriate for student maturity and needs
2. Reinforce behavioral expectations and implement district-approved strategies

Program Management:

1. Support therapy and assistive technology initiatives as part of a collaborative team
2. Assist with selecting and maintaining adaptive equipment and instructional materials
3. Build strong relationships with students and families

Administrative Duties:

1. Maintain required documentation (digital and physical) in accordance with local, state, and federal guidelines
2. Follow NBISD board policies and all state/federal laws and regulations
3. Complete Medicaid/SHARS documentation and timelines, including RMTS
4. Participate in required trainings and ongoing professional development
5. Communicate professionally with students, staff, and parents

Other:

1. Perform additional duties as assigned by the supervising occupational therapist or special education leadership

Working Conditions:

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office equipment including personal computer and peripherals

Posture: Prolonged sitting; occasional bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, twisting

Motion: Repetitive hand motions, frequent keyboarding and use of mouse

Lifting: Regular light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds); Occasional lifting up to 50 pounds. May occasionally require heavy lifting (45 pounds or more) and positioning of students with physical disabilities, control behavior through physical restraint, assist non ambulatory students, and lift and move adaptive and other classroom equipment.

Environment: May work prolonged or irregular hours; districtwide and occasional statewide travel

Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress

The foregoing statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.