Occupational Therapist

Under the direction of the Director of Special Education and Pupil Services, the Occupational Therapist provides direct and consultative services to support students in developing the functional skills needed to participate meaningfully and successfully in their educational program. The OT designs and implements therapeutic activities and accommodations to improve students’ performance in fine motor skills, sensory integration, self-regulation, daily living skills, and school based functional tasks.

Responsibilities

Conduct comprehensive occupational therapy assessments as part of initial evaluations, triennial reviews, and as requested through the IEP process.

• Develop individualized treatment plans and goals aligned with each student’s educational program and occupational therapy needs.
• Provide direct therapy services to students in individual and small group settings, both in pull-out and push-in models, as appropriate.
• Collaborate with general education teachers and support staff to implement accommodations and modifications that promote student access to the general education curriculum and setting.
• Provide training, resources, and consultation to staff and families to support student success across environments (e. g., classroom strategies, sensory supports, fine motor accommodations, at home strategies).
• Participate in IEP meetings, including presenting evaluation results, progress updates, and contributing to goal development.
• Monitor and document student progress toward occupational therapy goals; adjust interventions based on data and need.
• Design and recommend adaptive equipment, tools, and sensory supports to aid in student engagement and participation.
• Support the development and implementation of schoolwide strategies to promote fine motor development, sensory regulation, and functional independence.
• Maintain up-to-date records and reports in compliance with state, federal, and school policies.
• Collaborate with outside agencies and providers to ensure coordination of services, when applicable.
• Stay current with research-based practices in pediatric occupational therapy and school-based intervention.
• Participate in professional development and contribute to schoolwide initiatives aligned with the mission of Vista Charter Public School

Qualifications and Requirements

Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program

• Valid license to practice Occupational Therapy in California issued by the California Board of Occupational Therapy (CBOT) - required
• Certification by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) – preferred
• Previous experience in a school-based or pediatric setting - preferred
• Experience with students with autism, ADHD, and other disabilities desirable
• Bilingual - preferred