Job Title:

Extended School Year Occupational Therapist 

 

Job Summary:

The Extended School Year Occupational Therapist develops and provides specialized instruction to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities; Evaluates and assesses student progress against instructional objectives; follows IDEA-mandated due process procedures and functions as Case Manager to assigned IEP students.

 

Qualifications:

The Occupational Therapist must have completed a professional educational program at the bachelor's, master's, or doctoral level, approved by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) or the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT), or be otherwise approved by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). Currently, entry-level occupational therapy programs require a minimum of a master’s degree.

 

Evaluation:

The performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with the provisions of the Board’s policy on the Evaluation of Certified.

 

Reports to:

Summer School Principal and Director of Special Services 

 

Terms of Employment:

This is a part-time, hourly position for four weeks, from June 2nd to June 26th, with an additional four days of planning and professional development to be determined.

 

 

 

FLSA Status:

Exempt

 

Duties and Responsibilities:

  1. Provide Individualized Occupational Therapy Services—Deliver therapy sessions designed to meet students' specific needs, focusing on motor skills, sensory processing, and daily living skills based on their Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals.
  2. Assess and Monitor Student Progress – Conduct ongoing evaluations and assessments to track student progress, adjusting therapy techniques as necessary to ensure continued improvement in functional skills.
    Develop and Implement Therapy Plans – Create and implement individualized therapy plans that address fine motor skills, self-regulation, adaptive equipment, and school-related tasks.
  3. Collaborate with Educators and Support Staff – Work alongside teachers, special education staff, and paraprofessionals to integrate occupational therapy strategies into classroom routines and activities.
  4. Provide Assistive Technology Support – Assist in selecting, using, and training assistive technologies and adaptive equipment to support students’ participation in classroom activities and daily tasks.
    Facilitate Sensory Processing Support – Provide strategies to help students manage sensory processing challenges, promoting self-regulation and participation in classroom and social activities.
    Promote Independence in Daily Living Skills – Teach and support students in developing functional skills such as dressing, feeding, grooming, and hygiene to enhance their independence at school and home.
  5. Provide Parent and Caregiver Education – Communicate regularly with parents and caregivers to discuss student progress and provide strategies and resources to support occupational therapy goals at home.
  6. Participate in Multidisciplinary Team Meetings – Collaborate with other therapists, educators, and parents to assess and review students’ IEPs, ensuring that therapy goals are aligned with educational objectives.
  7. Complete Required Documentation and Reports – Maintain accurate records of therapy sessions, progress reports, and evaluations, ensuring compliance with district and state regulations.

 

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities  

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The role of an Occupational Therapist (OT) requires physical stamina and mobility to support students in various educational settings effectively. OTs must be able to sit, stand, and move throughout classrooms, therapy rooms, and other learning environments for extended periods. The position involves frequent use of fine motor skills to manipulate therapy materials, operate assistive communication devices, and document student progress. Additionally, Occupational Therapists may need to assist students with physical disabilities, which can involve bending, kneeling, or providing light physical support. The role also demands the ability to manage and transport therapy materials, such as visual aids, speech devices, and documentation tools. OTs must be able to respond quickly to students’ needs, ensuring a safe and supportive therapy environment. Adaptability to various classroom and school settings, including working with students in small groups or one-on-one, is essential.

 

ADA:

The employer will make reasonable accommodations in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. This job description will be reviewed periodically as duties and responsibilities change with business necessity. Essential and marginal job functions are subject to modification.

 

This job description is intended to describe minimum qualifications, duties, and responsibilities performed by employees assigned to this position and is not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities.  The District reserves the right to amend and change the position responsibilities to meet District needs as necessary.