Extended School Year Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant
New London Public Schools - New London, Connecticut, us, 06320
Work at New London Public Schools
Overview
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Overview
Date Posted: 1/10/2025
Location: District Wide
Reports To:
Executive Director of School & Family Support
Performance Evaluation : Annually by Executive Director of Student and Family Services or Designee
Terms of Employment:
July 1, 2025- August 11, 2025, up to 6 Hours/Day X 20 Days
Primary Function:
The COTA provides unique therapeutic services to enhance the goals and objectives of eligible students. The COTA is primarily responsible for implementing the therapeutic program prescribed by the occupational therapist.
Typical Duties & Responsibilities : This description of the position of Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) is for identification and administrative purposes only. It is not intended to be a complete statement of all duties, which may be assigned or adjusted by the Superintendent of Schools according to varying needs.
Promote independence in activities of daily living (including dressing and feeding) through problem solving, suggesting adaptations and observation of the student. Observe, problem solve and suggest positioning techniques to enhance educational participation and maximize function. Consult and assist classroom staff through gathering and sharing information at team meetings when requested. Discuss and exchange information about the students assigned with the occupational therapist. Utilize task analysis to suggest techniques to the educational team related to feeding, activities of daily living, pre-writing, pre-cutting, and other skills needed for school performance. Implement the individualized/small group therapeutic program prescribed by the occupational therapist based on goals and objectives. Collaborate with colleagues and parents to share information and expertise to plan and implement effective student programs. Assist occupational therapist in determining extent to which goals and objectives are being met by collecting and maintaining data on individual student goals. Assist occupational therapist in formulating new goals based on data analysis. Assume appropriate roles as adult model, behavior manager and educator. Adhere to all federal and state statues and BOE policies. Continue professional growth. Assume other duties and special projects as assigned.
Required Qualifications:
Valid CT Licensure as a COTA from the Connecticut Department of Public Health Ability to read, write and communicate in English to understand directions and communicate with students Experience working with students with special needs Ability to physically move about the building Ability to lift and position students (30-80 pounds) if assigned to a classroom with such requirements. Ability to make miner decisions with minimal supervision in accordance with established procedures. Ability to participate in approved behavior management procedures, Crisis Prevention Training and to apply training in crisis situations including student restraints as needed. Experience working with students with special needs. Preferred Qualifications:
CT Certification as an OTA Experience working with students with special needs Bilingual, English and Spanish Demonstrated leadership abilities, preferably in a racially and ethnically diverse community
New London Public School District is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Candidates from diverse racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds are encouraged to apply.