Occupational Therapist - Early Childhood - 2026-27 (Non-Unit) Full or Part-Time

Lake Shore Public Schools•St. Clair Shores, MI

15h•Onsite

About The Position

The Occupational Therapist provides embedded, classroom-based occupational therapy services to children from preschool through second grade using a whole-group, push-in model. Partnering directly with Lead and Associate teachers, the OT integrates fine motor, gross motor, sensory, self-regulation, and functional skill-building strategies directly into daily routines, transitions, and center activities to support all students in the room.

Requirements

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program
Current State of Michigan OT licensure (or eligibility)
NBCOT certification
Michigan Department of Education (MDE) School Occupational Therapist approval (or willingness to obtain)
Experience working with children ages 3–8 in an early childhood or educational setting, with strong comfort using classroom-embedded, push-in models.
Working knowledge of IDEA, IFSP/IEP processes, and Michigan frameworks (MiLEAP, GSRP, MISD)
Exceptional collaboration, coaching, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

Deliver whole-group, push-in strategies embedded directly within classroom routines, centers, and transitions—benefiting all children while also potentially meeting the individualized needs of students with IEPs, IFSPs, or 504 plans.
Co-plan and co-facilitate activities and lessons to help all children, embedding OT strategies seamlessly into daily schedules alongside classroom staff.
Conduct screenings, evaluations, and progress monitoring aligned with district, MiLEAP, IDEA, and MISD guidelines. Develop and track measurable IEP/IFSP goals within the push-in setting.
Train and coach classroom staff on creating sensory-friendly environments aligned with the center's "Less Is More" classroom standard; consult on adaptive equipment and Universal Design for Learning (UDL).
Participate in IEP, ECSE, and parent meetings. Maintain accurate records in compliance with FERPA and Michigan licensing, using only approved platforms (Brightwheel and Outlook).