Occupational Therapist - High School Job Ypsilanti area,Michigan USA,Education / Teaching

$3000 CRITICAL SHORTAGE INCENTIVE POSITION:

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST - HIGH SCHOOL

FLSA STATUS:

EXEMPT

FTE STATUS:

1.0

REPORTS TO:

BUILDING PRINCIPAL/DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL EDUCATION

DATE:

8/31/2026

SUMMARY:

The School Occupational Therapist is responsible for assessing and providing therapy to students with disabilities or developmental delays to enhance their ability to participate in educational activities. The therapist collaborates with educators, parents, and other professionals to develop and implement individualized intervention plans that support students' academic and functional success. This role requires creativity, adaptability, and a deep understanding of child development and special education needs.

OCCUPATIONAL

THERAPIST PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:

Consistently promotes fairness, respect, and different viewpoints in all responsibilities
Commits to ongoing learning and the development of their craft; encourages, supports and mentors ongoing learning in students.
Commits to high expectations for students, developing a vision of success for each student and moving the student towards achievement.
Commits to positive relationships and communication, promoting and modeling a safe and supportive learning culture for all.
Commits to honoring all students, embracing their community and diversity.
Commits to establishing a learning environment that is accountable for effective instruction, assessment and data-driven decision-making.
Commits to using community resources to improve instruction.
Commits to collegiality and professionalism of self and staff.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Develop and implement individualized treatment plans and interventions tailored to students' specific needs in collaboration with educators, parents, and other service providers.
Provide direct therapy services to students in individual or group settings to improve motor coordination, self-regulation, handwriting, organization skills, and other functional abilities necessary for academic success.
Consult with teachers and school staff to modify classroom environments, recommend adaptive tools, and implement accommodations that support students' learning and participation.
Design an Conduct comprehensive assessments of students' fine and gross motor skills, sensory processing, self-care abilities, and overall functional performance within the school environment.
Develop and lead professional development sessions and training workshops for teachers, support staff, and parents on occupational therapy techniques, classroom adaptations, and sensory-friendly strategies.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date records, including therapy session notes, student progress reports, and formal evaluations, ensuring compliance with legal and ethical documentation standards.
Actively participate in Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings, contributing expertise to the development of appropriate goals and accommodations for students receiving special education services.
Advocate for students by collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, including speech-language pathologists, physical therapists, special education teachers, and psychologists, to create holistic support plans.
Utilize Non-Violent Crisis Intervention (NVCI) strategies to help students regulate emotions and de-escalate behavior according to student plans.
Stay informed about best practices, new research, and advancements in occupational therapy, special education, and assistive technology to continuously improve service delivery.
Work with community agencies to coordinate the delivery of services to students.
Participates in professional development, maintains appropriate certification and qualifications, and keeps current in changing pedagogy.
Contribute professionally and constructively in team meetings, including IEPs, to help shape meaningful student goals and accommodations.
Collaborate with staff to create inclusive, accessible classroom environments and adapt activities to meet student needs.
Communicates regularly with students, parents, families and administration in advocacy of student growth. Develops communication plans that adjust for varying levels of parent involvement and inclusion.
Ensure compliance with state and federal regulations regarding occupational therapy services in schools, including adherence to Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) guidelines and district policies
Integrates cultural consciousness in instruction, classroom culture and classroom artifacts.
Participate…