Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) - Maricopa Unified School District

Position Description:  Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) 

Classification:Related Service Compensation Plan Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant - Exempt and Benefitted – Salary based on experience

Reports To: Director of Exceptional Student Services, Principals & Occupational Therapist

Position Description: The school occupational therapy assistant, as a member of the educational team, supports the education of students.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.

EssentialFunctions

1. Promote independence in activities of daily living (including dressing and feeding) through problem

solving, suggesting adaptations and observation of the student.

1. Observe, problem solve and suggest positioning techniques to enhance educational participation and

maximize function.

1. Consult and assist classroom staff through gathering and sharing information at team meetings when

requested.

1. Discuss and exchange information about the students assigned with the occupational therapist.
2. Utilize task analysis to suggest techniques to the educational team with regard to feeding, activities of

daily living, pre-writing, pre-cutting, and other skills needed for school performance.

1. Implement the individualized/small group therapeutic program prescribed by the occupational therapist

based on goals and objectives.

1. Collaborate with colleagues and parents in order to share information and expertise to plan and

implement effective student programs.

1. Assist occupational therapist in determining extent to which goals and objectives are being met by

collecting and maintaining data on individual student goals.

1. Assist therapist in formulating new goals based on data analysis.

General Responsibilities:

1. Assume appropriate roles as adult model, behavior manager and educator.
2. Continue professional growth.
3. Assume other duties and special projects as assigned.
4. Support Governing Board Policy, Goals and Objectives

Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stoop, reach, stand, walk, lift, pull, push, grasp, talk, hear, see and use repetitive motions, While performing the duties of this job, the employee may frequently lift and/or move up to 100 pounds.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision such as to read handwritten or typed material, and the ability to adjust focus.  The position requires the individual to meet multiple demands and interact with the public and other staff.

Education and/or Experience:Graduation from an accredited program for occupational therapy assistants. Must possess current licensure as an occupational therapist assistant by the State of Arizona. Two years of experience as a therapist assistant or an equivalent combination of education and experiences (especially in educational setting is preferred).

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The Maricopa Unified School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, age or sexual orientation in admission and access to its programs, services, activities, or in any aspect of their operations and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. The Maricopa Unified School District also does not discriminate in its hiring or employment practices. The following employees have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies:

Title IX Coordinator

Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources:

Address: 44150 W. Maricopa/Casa Grande Highway Maricopa, AZ 85138

Telephone Number: 520-568-5100

Email:tbeckett@musd20.org

Section 504/ADA Coordinator

Director of Exceptional Student Services

Address: 44150 W. Maricopa/Casa Grande Highway Maricopa, AZ 85138

Telephone Number: 520-568-5100

Email:lstollarslover@musd20.org

Job descriptions and documentation requirements can be accessed and printed from our website at www.musd20.org