Occupational Therapy Assistant

Young World Physical Education; Joplin (MO); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Joplin R 8 School District is seeking a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant to provide services to students with disabilities across the district, following IEP plans and collaborating with educators, parents and administrators.

The role involves documenting progress, working independently, and implementing therapy as directed under the supervision of an Occupational Therapist. Strong communication and record-keeping skills are essential in a busy school setting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree, required; Master’s Degree, preferred.
• Appropriate Licensure with the Board of Healing Arts.

Responsibilities

• Provide instruction and therapy to students.
• Create and implement classroom positive behavior support.
• Implement therapy as directed by the supervising Occupational Therapist.
• Maintain accurate student records of therapy sessions and goal progress data.
• Complete and submit required reports and forms in a timely manner.
• Communicate regularly with parents regarding progress and other educational concerns.
• Participate as a member of IEP teams, 504 teams, and other student assistance teams.
• Implement special educational plans such as 504 plans, individual educational programs, and individual health plans.
• Report suspected abuse, neglect, discrimination, and harassment as directed by Board policy.

Education

Bachelor’s Degree

Master’s Degree

Licensure with the Board of Healing Arts

Job description

Occupational Therapy Assistant

Joplin R 8 School District, District Wide, Joplin, Missouri

Job Details

• Job ID: 5828724
• Application Deadline: Posted until filled
• Posted: Jul 13, 2026 5:00 AM (UTC)
• Starting Date: Aug 18, 2026

Position

• Term: School Year
• Classification: Classified / Exempt
• Location: District Wide

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree, required; Master’s Degree, preferred.
• Appropriate Licensure with the Board of Healing Arts.

Job Description

Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant responsible for providing services to students with disabilities across the district, following IEP plans, documenting progress, collaborating with educators, parents, and administrators, and working independently.

Responsibilities

• Provide instruction and therapy to students.
• Create and implement classroom positive behavior support.
• Implement therapy as directed by the supervising Occupational Therapist.
• Maintain accurate student records of therapy sessions and goal progress data.
• Complete and submit required reports and forms in a timely manner.
• Communicate regularly with parents regarding progress and other educational concerns.
• Participate as a member of IEP teams, 504 teams, and other student assistance teams.
• Implement special educational plans such as 504 plans, individual educational programs, and individual health plans.
• Report suspected abuse, neglect, discrimination, and harassment as directed by Board policy.

General Expectations

• Support the mission and values of Joplin Schools.
• Enforce and follow applicable Board policies, regulations, and state/federal laws.
• Supervise students appropriately.
• Obey safety rules and protect student safety.
• Care for school property.
• Maintain courteous and professional relationships.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors, staff, and community.
• Provide excellent customer service.
• Comply with privacy rights and safeguard confidential information.
• React constructively to change.
• Participate in professional development.
• Conduct official business professionally and timely.
• Adhere to work schedules and meeting attendance.
• Maintain accurate records and filing systems.

Essential Functions

• Provide instruction to students.
• Create and implement a classroom positive behavior support.
• Implement therapy as directed.
• Participate in professional development activities.

Supervisory Duties

Supervise students at all times.

Physical Demands

• Speak and hear in a busy environment.
• Move around classroom.
• Read handwritten or printed material.
• Implement positive behavior support plans.

Attendance

Regular and consistent attendance is essential.

Conditions and Environment

Work in a noisy, active school environment; occasional outdoor tasks such as loading/unloading students.

Job Requirements

• Citizenship, residency, or work visa required.

Contact Information

• Julie Jasper, Director of Special Education
• ADMINISTRATION BUILDING
• Email: [e-mail]