Therapist Assistant (COTA)

Position Title: Therapy Assistant HOURS OF WORK/CALENDAR:

STATUS

Classified - Non-Exempt, Full Time

Position Summary

The job of Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) was established for the purpose/s of assessing students’ functional development level; providing appropriate occupational therapy services to meet individual student objectives; and providing recommendations for program development and student placement geared toward improving the student’s ability to successfully function in the educational environment. Performs other related duties as assigned for the purpose of ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of the work unit.

Primary duties/Responsibilities

Adapts equipment (e.g. seating, tables, desks, computer hardware, etc.) for the purpose of providing optimal positioning and increased independence for special education students. Assists Occupational Therapist for the purpose of supporting them in the completion of their work activities. Assists with assessing students' fine motor and development skills (e.g. administering tests, observing students, etc.) for the purpose of determining their deficits and developing recommendations. Attends meetings and workshops (e.g. educational team meetings, district level approved in-services, meetings with outside agencies, etc.) for the purpose of conveying and/or receiving information.

• Consults with occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech therapist, teachers, class assistants, families, etc. for the purpose of providing requested information, reviewing/revising students' occupational therapy goals/objectives, developing plans for services and/or making recommendations.
• Implements therapeutic activities and instructs students, teachers, parents and other involved persons (e.g. positioning, adjusting special equipment, visual perceptual motor and sensorimotor skills etc.) for the purpose of providing appropriate care to students and/or supporting the student's IEP plan.
• Maintains treatment equipment and supplies (e.g. swings, balls, puzzles, etc.) for the purpose of implementing motor/therapy goals.
• Maintains files and/or records (e.g. progress reports, Medicaid billings, activity logs, etc.) for the purpose of documenting activities and/or ensuring an up-to-date trail for compliance.
• Performs site visits at multiple work sites including home visits for the purpose of providing therapy and assistance as required.
• Prepares written materials (e.g. activity logs, progress notes, reports, memos, Medicaid billings, time studies, summer activities packets, etc.) for the purpose of documenting activities, providing written reference, and/or conveying information.
• Presents information (e.g. student performance data, and clinical feedback, etc.) for the purpose of communicating information, gaining feedback and ensuring adherence to established internal controls.

Provides training and instruction to students, parents and teachers on the use of assistive devices for the purpose of ensuring such devices are used safely and optimal benefits are achieved.

Provides home visits and/or summer therapy services for the purpose of delivering services in compliance with established guidelines.

Provides direct occupational therapy services to students according to IEP goals for the purpose of ensuring compliance with established practices and procedures.

Reports incidents and observations (e.g. suspected child abuse, suspected substance abuse, etc.) for the purpose of maintaining personal safety of students, providing a positive learning environment and adhering to Education Code, administrative and/or school policies.

Researches resources and methods (e.g. intervention and treatment techniques, assessment tools and methods, community resources, etc.) for the purpose of determining the appropriate approach for addressing students' functional goals.

Transports a variety of items (e.g. puzzles, games, swings, assistive devices, assessment tools, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring the availability of materials required for therapy sessions.

Troubleshoots problems with assistive devices (e.g. computer technology, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring that equipment is in proper working order and/or providing alternative strategies. Education and Experience Requirements Job related experience is desired. Community College and/or Vocational School degree with study in job related area. Certificates/Licensure: Active license for Occupational Therapy Assistant from the Kansas State Board of Healing Arts and Certification through the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy as a Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA) Required

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

SKILLS are required to perform single, technical tasks with a need to occasionally upgrade skills in order to meet changing job conditions. Specific skill-based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: adhering to safety practices; applying assessment instruments; operating equipment used in occupational therapy; operating standard office equipment including pertinent software applications; and preparing and maintaining accurate records.

• KNOWLEDGE is required to perform algebra and/or geometry; read technical information, compose a variety of documents, and/or facilitate group discussions; and solve practical problems.
• Specific knowledge-based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: student behavior management skills; adaptive equipment; and occupational therapy models, practices and theories.
• ABILITY is required to schedule activities, meetings, and/or events; gather, collate, and/or classify data; and use job related equipment.
• Flexibility is required to independently work with others in a wide variety of circumstances; work with data utilizing defined and similar processes; and operate equipment using standardized methods.
• Ability is also required to work with a diversity of individuals and/or groups; work with a variety of data; and utilize a variety of job-related equipment.
• Problem solving is required to analyze issues and create action plans.
• Problem solving with data may require independent interpretation; and problem solving with equipment is moderate.
• Specific ability based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: being attentive to detail; communicating with diverse groups; maintaining confidentiality; working as part of a team; displaying tact and courtesy; being empathetic and nonjudgmental; and establishing and maintaining effective relationships, especially with students.
• Responsibilities include: working under direct supervision using standardized procedures; leading, guiding, and/or coordinating others; and operating within a defined budget.
• Utilization of some resources from other work units may be required to perform the job's functions.
• There is a continual opportunity to have some impact on the Organization’s services.
• PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: The usual and customary methods of performing the job's functions require the following physical demands: significant lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling; some climbing and balancing; significant stooping, kneeling, crouching, and/or crawling; and significant fine finger dexterity.
• Generally, the job requires 20% sitting, 40% walking, and 40% standing.
• This job is performed in a generally clean and healthy environment.
• IMPORTANT EMPLOYMENT STATEMENTS The statements above are intended to describe the general nature of the work being performed and are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.
• This document describes the position currently available.
• The District reserves the right to modify job duties or job descriptions at any time.
• The Olathe Public Schools prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity in its programs, activities or employment as required by applicable federal and s

Clearances required: Background Clearance, TB