OTR

An occupational therapist is responsible for providing students with specialized speech and language services according to the Individualized Education Plan. The occupational therapist will develop an appropriate and individualized therapeutic program designed to meet each student’s need and ability level.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop, ensure and guide the implementation of individualized occupational therapy programs for students in accordance with their IEP and best evidence-based instructional practices.
• Ensures that all WSHV students have appropriately written Individual Education Programs that reflect relevances in accordance with their occupational therapy needs. While best meeting the individual needs of the students and ensuring the least restrictive environment is being implemented.
• Support maintenance of documentation in implementation of occupational therapy services in accordance with the student’s Individual Education Plan and aligned with the New York State Education Department and New York Department of Health regulations and WSHV policies and procedures, for providing services for students with disabilities.
• Attends and actively participates as a school representative during committee on Preschool and School-age meetings in determining and identifying appropriate services.
• Uses a variety of assessment and evaluation methods/tools including standardized tests, clinical observations, and medical and educational reports to determine the needs for occupational therapy interventions.
• Provides consultations with administration, special education teachers, related services providers and additional school personnel regarding a student’s optimal functioning in the school setting.
• Provides classroom programs with instruction in management techniques, assistive technology, and environmental modifications including the identification of any barriers.
• Consults with parents and/or guardians regarding students’ therapy programs.
• Participates in developing and conducting staff development, orientation, training and support activities designed to ensure that special education teachers, therapists, teaching assistants and other agency personnel are proficient in areas related to occupational therapy.
• Ensures compliance and maintains clinical records in accordance with federal, state, district and WSHV policy and procedure in all areas of occupational therapy. This includes CPSE McGuiness Portal and Frontline IEP Direct.
• Provides clinical education for therapy student interns from colleges and universities.
• Plans, orders and maintains departmental supplies and equipment; maintains records as required. Travels between locations where students require services.
• Remain current on all agency and continuing education credits as outlined by profession. Attend all training and participate in additional training and superintendent conference days, as needed.
• Maintains proper safety standards at all times.
• Under the direct supervision of the school principal, be able to carry out a program consistent with the philosophy and goals of the Wraparound Services of the Hudson Valley.
• Complies with the agency dress code, agency time and attendance procedures, and adheres to agency policies and procedures including Code of Conduct.

QUALIFICATIONS: 

• A clinician who utilizes best practice standards in practice and works as a team player with the ability to lead and develop strong relationships with employees, students and their families.
• Master's degree or higher or equivalent as determined by the New York State Education Department
• Experience working with students with disabilities, preferred
• Currently registered New York State License in Occupational Therapy. Possession of a valid NYS Drivers License.