Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)

Tulare City Elementary School District•Tulare, CA

About The Position

Under the supervision of the Occupational Therapist (OT), the COTA will provide therapy services to special education students from preschool through 8th grade, at various school site locations. The COTA will assist the OT on a day–to–day basis and will contribute to developing treatment programs aimed at improving the identified areas of function as they relate to the child’s educational needs. The COTA will perform services in accordance with the IEP goals and objectives. The COTA will collaborate with an interdisciplinary team to include teachers, specialists, and parents as it relates to the student’s educational needs/services/IEP. This position reports to the Director of Special Education and Psychological Services. This is a roving position.

Requirements

Ability to analyze and offer alternative problem solutions
Ability to meet physical requirements necessary to safely and effectively perform required duties
Ability to follow oral and written directions
Ability to get along with co-workers and deal with the general public tactfully, courteously and professionally
Experience working with children with disabilities in a school setting
Formal training in sensory integration theory and treatment techniques
Experience working as a member of an interdisciplinary team including working collaboratively with families.
Oral and written communication skills
Public speaking techniques
Collaboration skills with staff
Serve diverse needs
Perform multiple tasks with the potential to upgrade skills in order to meet changing job conditions.
Preparing and maintaining accurate records
Operating standard office equipment including using pertinent software applications
Perform assignments independently
Adhering to safety practices
Communicate effectively both orally and in writing
Plan and organize work
Meet schedules and timelines
Understand program goals and objectives
Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others
Associate of Arts Degree or equivalent.
Current Occupational Therapy Assistant Certification through the California Department of Consumer Affairs- Board of Occupational Therapy.
Must maintain COTA certification throughout employment.
Nonviolent Crisis Prevention (CPI) certification will be provided during employment and employee must participate in continued CPI training to maintain certification.

Responsibilities

Cooperates with other staff to accomplish the District’s priorities and expectations
Assists the OT with the development of treatment goals for students
Implements intervention plans using tools and materials as outlined by the OT
Communicates effectively, orally and in writing, to parents, teachers, and program staff
Maintains equipment and supplies
Maintains student records and files
Prepares records and reports
Attends meetings as appropriate
Provides training to classroom personnel in accordance with the IEP and under the direction of the OT
Travels to various school sites and other educational settings for the provision of services
Performs related duties as required
Consults with classroom teachers about upcoming assignments and necessary accommodations and modifications for students
In collaboration with the OT, models techniques and procedures for staff
Assists in training general and special education staff on techniques to address student needs
Consults with OT, IEP team members, and other appropriate staff on a regular basis
Performs other job-related duties as assigned and may assist other personnel as required for the purpose of supporting them in the completion of their work activities.
Provides first aid and non-medical assistance (e.g., changing diapers and clothing, positioning students on orthopedic equipment, lifting students, stretching) for the purpose of providing appropriate care for ill, medically fragile, and/or injured students, and maintaining students’ personal hygiene.
Collaborates and maintains positive relationships with parents and other school professionals including school psychologists, counselors, teachers (special and general education), and administration to implement strategies for students.
Maintains professional competence through participation in in-service education activities as provided by district, state, consultants, or self-selected professional growth activities
Knowledge of, and adherence to, all pertinent education codes