Occupational Therapist (2026-2027 SY)

Framingham Public Schools • Framingham, MA

18h • Onsite

About The Position

The Occupational Therapist (OT) enhances student functional independence and academic participation through comprehensive intervention plans for fine/gross motor, sensory motor, and ADL needs. The OT modifies educational environments, conducts formal evaluations, and ensures compliance with Massachusetts Special Education laws. This role provides expert consultation to families and staff to support equitable, culturally responsive instruction. This commitment aligns with Framingham Public Schools’ high expectations for achievement, equal access to culturally responsive, quality instruction, academic proficiency for all students, and a sense of belonging for all subgroups within our schools.

Requirements

• Valid Massachusetts Board of Allied Health Professions in: Occupational Therapist
• Valid Massachusetts Class D Driver’s License or other means of transportation.
• A Master’s Degree (or higher) from an accredited college or university in Occupational Therapy.
• A minimum of five (5) years of successful clinical or school-based occupational therapy experience in a diverse environment, with a strong preference for candidates experienced in pediatric therapy, the special education process, and supporting students with disabilities (IEPs and 504 plans).
• Strong oral and written communication skills; ability to present information clearly and respond effectively to questions from students, staff, parents, and community members.
• Sound reasoning and problem-solving skills to evaluate information, define problems, collect data, establish facts, draw valid conclusions, and recommend appropriate courses of action.
• Capacity to read, analyze, and interpret professional literature, technical procedures, and governmental regulations to inform educational and practice decisions.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive, effective working relationships with students, families, colleagues, and the community.
• Demonstrated cultural proficiency and competence in working equitably and inclusively with students and families from diverse backgrounds.
• Maintain regular and punctual attendance to support district operations. Exhibit professionalism and composure in responding to unpredictable or challenging situations, maintaining a proactive, reflective, and solution-focused approach to supporting student growth.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple projects.
• Ability to use data effectively to inform educational or clinical decisions and improve student outcomes. Experience evaluating student skills, interpreting assessment data, and writing clear, concise reports.
• Strong collaborative, coaching, and leadership skills to support student programming and participate in team settings. Willingness to plan, coordinate, and participate in ongoing professional learning and staff development.
• Proficiency in using technology and willingness to learn new tools; ability to operate a computer and utilize software, including Google Workspace for Education.
• Commitment to performing all duties in compliance with district requirements, state and federal laws, and Framingham Public Schools policies. Ability to maintain strict confidentiality of sensitive information and student records (FERPA/IDEA).
• Ability to select, administer, and interpret standardized and non-standardized occupational therapy assessments (e.g., fine motor, visual-motor, sensory processing, activities of daily living) to determine the impact on a student's educational access.
• Ability to plan and implement evidence-based therapeutic interventions, providing in both pull-out and push-in/inclusive settings that align with the student's Individualized Education Program (IEP) and overarching school goals.
• Expertise in analyzing classroom environments and recommending physical modifications, seating and positioning solutions, or sensory accommodations to reduce barriers to learning.
• Proficiency in evaluating for, implementing, and training staff on the use of low-tech and high-tech assistive technology and adaptive equipment to enhance student independence.
• Ability to translate complex clinical evaluation data and medical reports into measurable, legally defensible, and curriculum-aligned IEP goals and objectives.
• Ability to consult with and coach general and special education teachers on implementing sensory diets, fine motor strategies, and environmental accommodations within the classroom setting.
• Specialized knowledge of the Massachusetts Board of Allied Health Professions regulations, IDEA, and state special education laws (603 CMR 28.00). Ability to maintain accurate service logs and documentation compliant with the Massachusetts School-Based Medicaid Program (SBMP).

Nice To Haves

• Bilingual proficiency in Spanish and/or Portuguese is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Therapeutic Planning and Intervention: Formulate comprehensive plans and goals to improve student functional abilities. Deliver direct services for sensory-motor dysfunction, fine/gross motor development, and activities of daily living (ADL). Verify eligibility and develop specific Plans of Care for Medicaid-eligible students, including instructions for the interdisciplinary team.
• Environment and Equipment Adaptation: Analyze and modify educational environments for student independence. Select, design, or fabricate specialized equipment to address neuromuscular deficits and needs. Provide guidance on structuring classrooms and school spaces to support "naturalistic" learning.
• Evaluation and Progress Monitoring: Conduct formal evaluations to determine functioning levels relative to age and educational placement. Maintain accurate daily records for attendance, progress, and Medicaid requirements; write detailed IEP reports. Ensure all evaluations and records align with Massachusetts Special Education laws and policies.
• Professional Consultation and Collaboration: Provide expert insight into how physical/sensory challenges impact learning and participate in IEP meetings. Coordinate goals with medical agencies and demonstrate developmental strategies to families for home intervention. Serve as the primary liaison and mentor for OT therapy students and interns. Establish therapy schedules and manage materials and equipment effectively.
• Other reasonable duties as assigned by the Principal.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees