Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA)

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Implement occupational therapy programs and activities as planned and directed by the occupational therapist(s)
• Follow therapeutic goals in accordance with state and federal guidelines under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and District policies
• In consultation with occupational therapist, develop individual student plans including identification of needs, goal setting, strategies and assessment of outcomes
• Participate in referral and evaluation/programming conferences as requested by the occupational therapist
• Communicate effectively with colleagues, students and parents regarding the accomplishment of therapy goals and needs of the student
• Assist occupational therapist in training additional support staff as needed regarding individual students’ occupational therapy goals
• Maintain organized and accurate student records and files utilizing the appropriate technology systems as directed (includes Medicaid billing)
• Maintain treatment equipment and supplies in clean and proper working condition for the purpose of implementing motor/therapy goals
• Demonstrate flexibility and responsiveness to students, school personnel and district needs
• Participate in school and district professional development as directed
• Perform other duties as assigned by the occupational therapist or Director of Special Education

Qualifications

• Associates degree or higher in occupational therapy from an accredited program
• Valid Arkansas state license as Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant
• Pass the National Certification (NBCOT) COTA exam
• Prior experience working for a school system or other pediatric practice preferred
• Clean background check
• Effective written and oral communication skills
• Technology skills to include SEAS, Google and Microsoft Office Suite
• Ability to establish and maintain working relationships with school community and parents

Physical Requirements

• Be able to stand/sit for the majority of the school day
• Be able to walk short distances to escort children between classrooms and activities
• Be able to sit, stand, lean, reach, bend, lift and squat to assist students as needed
• Be able to walk on uneven surfaces (playground)
• Be able to walk up and down stairs
• Be outside in all weather conditions for assigned duty
• In district travel

*Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Reports to : Occupational Therapist/Director of Special Education

179 day contract.

Opening is for the 2025-2026 school year.