Occupational Therapist - School Based

Wraparound Services of the Hudson Valley's School for Achievement (SFA) is dedicated to teaching students in a meaningful way in order to assist each student in achieving independence academically, socially, behaviorally and vocationally.  SFA collaborates with three counties (Columbia, Dutchess and Ulster) as well as with several school districts, including Cairo/Durham, Highland, Kingston, New Paltz, Red Hook, Rhinebeck, Rondout Valley, Saugerties, Wallkill and Wappingers. SFA has a variety of dedicated treatment spaces.

JOB SUMMARY

Provide specialized occupational therapy services to support students with autism, developmental and physical disabilities in accessing the educational curriculum and developing functional independence in school-based activities.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assess students’ functional abilities in areas such as fine motor skills, sensory processing, visual-motor integration, and daily living skills.
• Develop and implement individualized therapy plans in alignment with each student’s IEP (Individualized Education Program) goals.
• Deliver direct and consultative occupational therapy services in various school settings (classroom, therapy room, etc.).
• Collaborate with teachers, special educators, and other related service providers to integrate therapy strategies into the classroom.
• Use evidence-based strategies to support self-regulation, attention, motor planning and adaptive functioning in students with autism and related developmental challenges.
• Assist in developing and adapting materials and classroom tools to support student access and engagement.
• Monitor and document student progress, adjusting therapy plans as needed.
• Participate in IEP meetings and contribute to goal setting and service planning.
• Educate school staff and families on strategies to support student independence and participation.
• Recommend adaptive equipment or assistive technology to support student needs.
• Maintain accurate records in compliance with school, district and legal guidelines.
• Stay current with best practices, research and continuing education in pediatric and school-based occupational therapy.
• Professionally represent the Agency at all times.
• Responsible for the safety of students served under his/her supervision.
• Perform any other related duties as directed by the Supervisor of Occupational Therapy Services and/or designee.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program
• Valid New York State License in Occupational Therapy and NBCOT certification
• Experience working with children with autism, developmental delays and/or physical disabilities, preferably in a school or pediatric setting 
• Strong communication, collaboration and organizational skills
• Knowledge of IDEA, IEP process and educationally relevant therapy practices