Occupational Therapist (Academy Grand/South)

Position Title: Occupational Therapist

Department: UCAN Academy and High School 

Reports to: Clinical Director 

About the Program:

Comprised of two campuses in the Humboldt Park and Auburn-Gresham communities, the UCAN Academy is an innovative kindergarten - 12th grade, year-round therapeutic day school. Collectively, the multi-accredited schools make up the one of the largest and most recognized therapeutic day school operations in Chicago. Students come from diverse and distinct backgrounds and have experienced difficulties in public or private school settings. Each youth has a unique set of needs that are met through the development and monitoring of their Individualized Education Plan. They are enrolled from Chicago Public Schools and several suburban districts, and many have become discouraged about learning. Our goal is to help them to see schooling in a positive light and to reach their highest potential. Our small class sizes of 10 students with a 5:1 student to staff ratio are geared to small teaching sessions and equipped to meet students' individual learning needs.

Position Objective and Summary:

The Occupational Therapist is responsible for providing assessment and instruction to students with motor deficits in groups or individual therapy in a variety of settings. The Occupational Therapist will assess, design, and implement appropriate therapy interventions to meet student motor needs through the IEP, and work as a team member. The Occupational Therapist also assess and recommends environmental modifications and equipment adaptations to assure accessibility for students with disabilities in their educational environment.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

• Plans, organizes, and conducts occupational therapy program activities for special education students who are disabled by mental, physical, and/or emotional conditions so they can develop, recover, or maintain daily living, working, and/or learning skills.
• Provides direct and consultative intervention in special and general education classrooms.
• Writes evaluation and reassessment summaries for students suspected of having fine and gross motor deficits.
• Participates as a member of child’s study team in staff meetings and team assessments.
• Provides services that help restore function, improve mobility, relieve pain and prevent or limit permanent physical disabilities of students suffering from injuries or disease.
• Maintains clear and concise records of students’ activities and progress.
• Interprets therapy needs and works cooperatively with parents and teachers to achieve IEP objectives.
• Processes any paperwork required to obtain assessment permission and document parent contacts as legally mandated.
• Schedules flexibly to accommodate a changing caseload.
• Communicate effectively and works harmoniously with administration and staff

Education/Job Experience/Certification:

• Current Illinois State license to practice occupational therapy.
• Two (2) years of pediatric experience in a school setting preferred, but not required.

Special Knowledge and Qualifications:

• Demonstrated ability to work both independently and a part of a high functioning team.
• Ability to work in a multi-disciplinary setting. 
• Some computer knowledge necessary.
• This position requires traveling to both academy locations.