Occupational Therapist (Education Authority) - Opportunity

16 December 2024• Employment Opportunities• sagkeeng

Occupational Therapist

Position Summary

The Occupational Therapist (OT) will provide specialized support to students with
exceptionalities requiring occupational therapy interventions to enhance their
educational access, participation, and performance. The OT will collaborate with
educators, parents, and other professionals to create and implement individualized
programs designed to develop students’ fine motor, sensory processing, self-care, and
adaptive skills.

Key Responsibilities:

Conduct comprehensive occupational therapy evaluations to assess students’ needs in motor skills, sensory processing, and functional abilities
Analyze the educational environment to identify barriers to learning and recommend strategies to overcome them
Contribute to the development of Individualized Education Plans (IPEs) by providing detailed input on students’ strengths, challenges, and therapy goals
Deliver occupational therapy interventions on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis as outlined in students’ IEPs.
Use evidence-based practices to develop and implement therapeutic activities that address students’ educational goals
Monitor and document students’ progress toward IEP goals, adjusting interventions as needed.
Work closely with teachers, special education staff, and parents to integrate therapy goals into classroom activities and home routines.
Train staff on techniques and accommodations to support students in achieving their goals.
Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings to discuss student progress and program adjustments.
Recommend and implement modifications to the classroom environment to support students’ sensory and physical needs
Assist in selecting and maintaining adaptive equipment and assistive technology to facilitate student participation and independence
Maintain accurate records of evaluations, therapy sessions, progress notes, and other required documentation in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations
Ensure adherence to professional ethical standards and the policies of the school division.
Stay informed on current research, trends, and best practices in pediatric occupational therapy and special education.
Provide training sessions for school staff and parents on topics such as sensory processing, fine motor development, and self-regulation strategies.
Other duties assigned within scope of position

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited institution.
Current and valid registration with the provincial or territorial regulatory body for occupational therapists (e.g., College of Occupational Therapists of Manitoba, College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario, Alberta College of Occupational Therapists).
Certification with the Canadian Association or Occupational Therapists (CAOT) is preferred but not mandatory if provincial registration is maintained.
Previous experience working with children or adolescents in a school, clinical, or community setting is highly desirable.
Experience supporting students with a range of exceptionalities, including but not limited to autism spectrum disorders, developmental delays, physical disabilities, and sensory integration challenges, is preferred.
Strong understanding of developmental milestones, sensory processing, and their impact on learning and behavior.
Familiarity with creating and implementing Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and individualized support plans.
Proficiency in using adaptive equipment, assistive technology, and other tools to enhance student learning and participation.
Knowledge of evidence-based practices and current trends in school-based occupational therapy
Ability to collect and analyze data to monitor student progress and adjust interventions accordingly.
Exceptional collaboration skills to work effectively with educators, families, administrators, and other professionals.
Strong verbal and written communication abilities for reporting, documentation and training purposes
Empathy, patience, and a student-centered approach to fostering a positive and inclusive environment.
Demonstrated ability to manage a dynamic caseload and prioritize tasks effectively
Proficiency in maintaining thorough and accurate documentation to comply with school division and legal requirements.
Ability to move, bend, and lift to support students in therapy activities and adapt
classroom environments as needed.