Extended School Year Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

New London Public Schools; New London (CT); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An established educational institution is seeking a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) to provide essential therapeutic services to students. This role focuses on enhancing student independence and participation in daily activities through tailored therapeutic programs. The COTA will work closely with occupational therapists and classroom staff to implement individualized plans that support students with special needs. This position offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of students while fostering professional growth in a supportive environment. If you are passionate about helping students thrive, this role is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• Valid CT Licensure as a COTA required.
• Experience with students with special needs is essential.

Responsibilities

• Implement therapeutic programs prescribed by the occupational therapist.
• Promote independence in daily living activities for students.
• Collaborate with colleagues and parents to enhance student programs.

Skills

Communication Skills

Problem Solving

Behavior Management

Physical Mobility

Data Analysis

Education

Valid CT Licensure as a COTA

Job description

Position Type:
Summer and Extended School Year/ ESY Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

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.

1. Promote independence in activities of daily living (including dressing and feeding) through problem solving, suggesting adaptations and observation of the student.
2. Observe, problem solve and suggest positioning techniques to enhance educational participation and maximize function.
3. Consult and assist classroom staff through gathering and sharing information at team meetings when requested.
4. Discuss and exchange information about the students assigned with the occupational therapist.
5. 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.
6. Implement the individualized/small group therapeutic program prescribed by the occupational therapist based on goals and objectives.
7. Collaborate with colleagues and parents to share information and expertise to plan and implement effective student programs.
8. Assist occupational therapist in determining extent to which goals and objectives are being met by collecting and maintaining data on individual student goals.
9. Assist occupational therapist in formulating new goals based on data analysis.
10. Assume appropriate roles as adult model, behavior manager and educator.
11. Adhere to all federal and state statutes and BOE policies.
12. Continue professional growth.
13. 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 minor 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.

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.