(2025-2026) Certified Occupational Therapist

Our mission is to ensure that every student develops the enduring knowledge, skills, and character to thrive in a changing world.

Position: Licensed Occupational Therapist
School Year: 2025-2026
Location: Roaring Fork Schools District Office
Reports to: Special Education Director
Classification: Certified Exempt - Full-Time (1.0 FTE / 40 hours per week)
Contract Period: 185 working days.

Salary Range

• *$56,809 to $89,509 (Based on education and years of relevant working experience) *The annual salary listed above is based on a full-time, 8-hour workday (FTE 1) and a full working calendar. For positions with less than a full FTE or reduced hours, such as part-time or late-start positions, the salary will be prorated accordingly. Certified Salary Schedule
• Credentialed teaching experience outside the District or U.S. may be considered in salary placement. See our Salary Placement Criteria for more information.

Benefits

• The Roaring Fork School District (RFSD) offers full district paid employee health benefits, including medical, life, voluntary vision, dental, and dependent coverage. Other benefits include, paid leave, CO PERA (pension plan) enrollment with district contribution, TSA options, employee assistance programs (EAP) and supplemental insurance. In addition, RFSD offers highly reduced and payroll deducted ski passes and an employee referral program. RFSD Benefits Guide
• RFSD prohibits discrimination, harassment, intimidation, and bullying in all district activities. Read the district's full nondiscrimination statement online at .

About us!

• With 14 schools and 5,600 students, the Roaring Fork School District is located in the culturally vibrant and naturally stunning Roaring Fork Valley serving the communities of Glenwood Springs, Carbondale, and Basalt. The Roaring Fork Schools believe that teachers are our most important asset, and our teachers enjoy a true teacher voice in decision-making; clear and collaborative leadership; small class sizes; a highly competitive and progressive salary schedule; access to our affordable housing program; and a culture of self-care and well-being. We believe diversity is a strength, and our staff makes a real difference for our students who come from different ethnicities, cultures, and socio-economic backgrounds.

Position Overview

• The Occupational Therapist (OT) plays a vital role in helping students with physical, sensory, and cognitive challenges develop or enhance the skills necessary for daily living and academic success. The OT evaluates, designs, and implements individualized treatment plans to address students' fine motor skills, sensory processing, and functional independence. By collaborating with teachers, families, and other specialists, the OT contributes to creating a supportive, accessible, and inclusive learning environment for all students.

Job Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive assessments to evaluate students' physical, sensory, motor, and cognitive abilities. Utilize standardized tests, observations, and consultations with teachers and parents to identify areas of need. Develop individualized treatment plans based on assessment results.
• Provide one-on-one or small group therapy sessions to students, focusing on developing fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, sensory processing, self-regulation, and functional daily living skills.
• Work closely with teachers, special education staff, speech-language pathologists, physical therapists, and other professionals to ensure a holistic approach to each students development. Participate in team meetings to discuss student progress and adjust treatment plans as needed.
• Collaborate with educational teams to create and update Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for students, ensuring that therapy goals are aligned with academic and functional outcomes. Provide input on classroom accommodations, modifications, and therapeutic strategies.
• Screenings, evaluations, IEP planning and implementation meetings, and direct and indirect therapeutic services.
• Meets all legal requirements, including timelines for professional practices in accordance with educational law and district policies and procedures. Items may include, but not limited to, 504, RtI, MTSS, etc.
• Coordinates communication and information to and from families, school staff and leadership, other special education team members, including BOCES.
• Work with students who have sensory processing challenges, helping them to manage sensory input and adapt to the school environment. Implement sensory-based strategies and activities that help students regulate their emotions and focus better in class.
• Recommend and provide training on the use of adaptive equipment or assistive technologies (e.g., specialized keyboards, writing aids) to promote independence in the classroom and daily tasks. Ensure that students are using the tools most appropriate for their needs.
• Provide guidance and support to parents, caregivers, and teachers on strategies to reinforce therapy goals at home and in the classroom. Educate staff on modifying classroom environments to support students with disabilities.
• Track and document student progress toward therapy goals, adjusting plans as necessary. Maintain accurate and up-to-date records in compliance with legal and ethical standards. Provide reports and updates to parents and educational teams.
• In cases of physical or emotional crises, offer immediate support to help students regain composure and participate in school activities. Assist in managing challenging behaviors that may arise from sensory overload or frustration.

Necessary Credentials

• Masters or Doctoral degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program.
• Valid DORA Licensure as an Occupational Therapist.
• Valid Colorado Department of Education Special Services License as an Occupational Therapist.
• Experience working in a school setting or with children with special needs is preferred.
• CPR and First Aid certifications are not required but a plus.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to work with students, parents, and staff.
• Knowledge of developmental milestones, sensory integration, and therapeutic techniques for children.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Familiarity with IEPs and special education processes.
• Ability to adapt therapy techniques to diverse student needs.

Desired Core Competencies

• Empathy and patience in working with students of varying abilities.
• Strong problem-solving and creative thinking skills to develop individualized strategies.
• Knowledge of assistive technology and adaptive tools.
• Commitment to fostering an inclusive and accessible learning environment.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and comply with professional ethics.
• Organizational skills to track multiple therapy goals and student progress.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements

• Full-time position with a typical school schedule (may involve occasional evening or weekend hours for meetings or parent consultations).
• Work is primarily conducted in classrooms, therapy rooms, or other school settings.
• Interaction with students, parents, teachers, and other school personnel is frequent.
• Exposure to students with a range of disabilities, including physical, cognitive, and behavioral challenges.
• Ability to sit, stand, and kneel for extended periods while working with students.
• Ability to lift or carry adaptive equipment and therapy materials as needed.
• May require physical activities like guiding students through exercises, handling equipment, or assisting with mobility in some cases.
• Prolonged use of computers and other electronic devices for documentation and communication.

We look forward to reviewing your application and hope to find a passionate occupational therapist who will thrive in our supportive, collaborative school environment!