RP 122511 - Occupational Therapist Assistant/COTA (SY25-26)

Needham Public Schools is an inclusive, dynamic, and multicultural community seeking an energetic, skilled, and warm Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant (COTA) to join our team. To enhance our goals of supporting every child, Needham Public Schools seeks candidates with diverse backgrounds and experiences.

About Needham Public Schools (NPS): NPS has a deep commitment to the success of our diverse students and families and to the professional accomplishments of its educators. Needham devotes itself to cultural proficiency, equity, and community collaboration to fulfill the vision of the Portrait of a Needham Graduate . This METCO district comprises 5 elementary schools, 2 middle schools, and 1 nationally-ranked high school serving approximately 5,500 students. NPS is committed to addressing equity in the district by focusing on improving academic performance for historically marginalized students and ensuring our schools are safe for every child and free of bias, bullying, and hurtful acts that demean and diminish. Read more about our equity work here .

Job Description:

The School-Based Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) will work under the supervision of a Registered Occupational Therapist (OTR) to support students' participation in school activities in accordance with their Individual Education Program. COTA responsibilities include; implementing therapy plans, adapting learning materials, collaborating with school staff, and documenting student progress . The COTA implement s treatment plans with a focus on developing students' fine and visual motor skills, sensory processing, and daily living skills to increase engagement and promote independence within the school setting . The COTA will modify classroom materials and environments to support students' needs, ensuring accessibility to the curriculum. The COTA may provide training to teachers and parents on strategies to support students' occupational therapy goals. Continued tracking of student progress, completion of progress notes, maintaining accurate records, and communicating findings to the OTR and other relevant personnel are also required. The COTA participates in regular consultation with educational teams including general education teachers to ensure full access to learning opportunities. In addition, the COTA consults regularly with the supervising OTR to provide updates on student progress and collaborate on the students' goals.

Education and Experience:

Associates degree in Occupational Therapy

Selection Procedure:

All resumes will be screened and selected candidates will participate in a thorough interview process.

Compensation and Benefits:

Please review the Unit C Contract and this page to learn more about employee compensation and benefits.

Application Procedure:

Please apply online:

Applications will be considered only when a cover letter, resume, three letters of recommendation, license, and transcripts have been attached to your online application.

The Needham Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, active military/veteran status, ancestry, genetic information, or national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, employment policies, and other administered programs and activities. In addition, students who are homeless or of limited English-speaking ability are protected from discrimination in accessing the course of study and other opportunities available through the schools.

Needham Public Schools has a strong commitment to equity. Candidates who also have a strong commitment to this work are encouraged to apply. For more information on our equity work please visit our equity website .