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Lee County School System

Occupational Therapy / Physical Therapy Paraprofessional (OT/PT Para)

Reports To: Occupational Therapist (OT), Physical Therapist (PT), Director of Special Education or Designee
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Position Purpose

The Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy Paraprofessional (OT/PT Para) supports licensed Occupational Therapists and Physical Therapists in implementing therapeutic activities and interventions designed to improve students' functional, motor, sensory, mobility, and independence skills within the educational setting. The OT/PT Para assists in carrying out prescribed activities, supporting student access to educational environments, and helping students participate successfully in school routines while maintaining confidentiality and compliance with IDEA, Section 504, and district procedures.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1. Assist OT/PT staff in implementing therapy activities and exercises prescribed within student plans under the direct supervision of licensed personnel.
2. Support students with mobility, positioning, transfers, adaptive equipment, and functional participation in classroom routines as directed.
3. Reinforce fine motor, gross motor, sensory, self-help, and functional skill activities designed by licensed therapists.
4. Assist students in using adaptive equipment, assistive technology, or specialized materials.
5. Support students with transitions throughout the school day when mobility or physical assistance is needed.
6. Assist students with functional daily living tasks that support educational participation.
7. Collaborate with teachers and therapists to support implementation of accommodations and modifications recommended for students.
8. Reinforce therapeutic strategies within classroom settings to improve student independence and access to instruction.
9. Assist with preparation and organization of therapy materials and learning environments.
10. Maintain accurate logs, records, and data regarding services or activities as assigned by supervising therapists.
11. Communicate observations regarding student performance, progress, or concerns to supervising OT/PT staff.
12. Maintain confidentiality regarding student records and protected information consistent with FERPA, IDEA, and district expectations.
13. Assist in cleaning, organizing, inventorying, and maintaining therapy equipment and materials.
14. Help ensure safe environments for therapy sessions and student participation.
15. Report equipment concerns, student safety issues, or potential hazards immediately.
16. Participate in required district trainings and professional learning.
17. Assist with supervision duties as assigned.
18. Perform other duties as assigned by administration or supervising therapists.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of child development and school-age disabilities preferred
• Ability to work effectively with students requiring physical, sensory, behavioral, or developmental supports
• Ability to safely assist with lifting, positioning, transfers, and mobility needs
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to follow therapy plans and instructions from licensed professionals
• Knowledge of confidentiality requirements related to student information
• Ability to remain patient, professional, and supportive when working with students

Equipment Used

• Adaptive seating and positioning equipment
• Wheelchairs, walkers, gait trainers, standers
• Therapy tools and sensory equipment
• Assistive technology devices
• Computer and basic office equipment

Physical Demands / Work Environment

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and reaching
• Ability to lift, transfer, and physically assist students as needed
• Ability to push or maneuver adaptive equipment
• Occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds or more with assistance and according to safety procedures
• Exposure to classroom, therapy, and school environments throughout the district

Qualifications

Required:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Meet Georgia paraprofessional requirements by one of the following:
  • Completion of at least 60 semester hours at an accredited institution; OR
  • Associate degree or higher; OR
  • Passing score on a state-approved paraprofessional assessment
• Ability to obtain CPR/First Aid certification if required by district procedures

Preferred:

• Experience working with students with disabilities
• Experience in therapy support, special education, healthcare, rehabilitation, or pediatric settings
• CPI, de-escalation, lifting, or related training preferred