About the Job
A national network of free, open enrollment, college preparatory public schools is dedicated to preparing students in underserved communities for success in college and life. The organization serves more than 175,000 students and alumni nationwide with the support of over 15,000 educators.
Founded in 2008 with 50 students in 5th grade, the school currently educates 2,000 students from Kindergarten through 12th grade. With a mission to create joyful, academically excellent schools that prepare students with the skills and confidence to pursue college, career, and beyond, the organization has maintained strong academic excellence and continues to expand its impact.
The school consistently ranks among the top schools in Ohio for academic growth and is recognized as a high-performing urban school. In its first graduating classes, 100% of students were accepted into college and/or military service, earning nearly $40 million in merit scholarships.
The organization also partners with nearly 100 community organizations to provide extracurricular activities, health and wellness services, meals, and additional support for students and families. It offers more than 10 varsity sports programs as a member of the Ohio High School Athletic Association.
The learning campus continues to expand student opportunities, strengthen partnerships, and serve as a teaching and leadership model for schools nationwide.
The Opportunity
The School-Based Occupational Therapist supports students with diverse needs to enhance academic performance and participation in school activities. This role focuses on developing and improving students' fine motor skills, sensory integration, self-help abilities, and environmental accessibility within the educational setting.
The Occupational Therapist provides support and services to students with disabilities, including assessments, assisting school teams with MTSS/RtI processes, and collaborating with service providers and student services teams to ensure high-quality support services.
Job Description
The Occupational Therapist must hold appropriate Ohio licensure and have a minimum of 1 year of school-based Occupational Therapy experience.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Conduct comprehensive evaluations to identify students' needs in fine motor skills, sensory processing, and self-regulation
Analyze students' ability to perform tasks within the educational environment and develop individualized intervention plans
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to contribute to IEP development
Provide direct and consultative occupational therapy services aligned with IEP goals
Develop and implement interventions to improve participation in classroom activities, self-care routines, and play
Recommend adaptive equipment, assistive technology, and classroom accommodations
Address sensory processing challenges impacting student learning and engagement
Work closely with teachers, staff, and parents to integrate strategies into daily routines
Train staff on techniques supporting sensory, motor, and self-regulation needs
Participate in team meetings, parent conferences, and professional development opportunities
Maintain accurate and timely records of evaluations, progress reports, therapy sessions, and consultations
Ensure compliance with IDEA regulations and district policies
Assist with Medicaid documentation and billing requirements
Evaluate and adapt school environments to improve accessibility for students with disabilities
Recommend classroom modifications to optimize student engagement and comfort
Demonstrate professionalism, cultural sensitivity, and confidentiality
Supervision Responsibilities:
The Occupational Therapist will supervise a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA), including:
Ensuring the COTA practices within the scope of training and established treatment plans
Regular collaboration regarding student progress and treatment updates
Providing supervision at least once every 7 days through direct or indirect methods
Maintaining supervision documentation records
Co-signing student records, progress notes, and related documentation prepared by the COTA
Qualifications
Minimum 1 year of experience as a school-based Occupational Therapist with ability to supervise a COTA
Master's degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program
Active Ohio Department of Education and Workforce Pupil Services License as an Occupational Therapist
Active Ohio Occupational Therapist license issued by the Ohio Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Athletic Trainers Board
Experience analyzing student data to develop specialized services
Experience conducting ETR evaluations, writing IEP goals, and progress monitoring
Strong caseload management and adaptability to diverse student needs
Strong problem-solving, collaboration, and communication skills
Knowledge of child development, sensory integration, and evidence-based practices
Ability to work in a fast-paced and evolving environment while maintaining flexibility and professionalism
Commitment to student success and continuous growth
Travel may be required
Compensation and Benefits
The organization offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package including: