About this role
The North Adams Public Schools is seeking a certified Occupational Therapist Assistant for the upcoming 2026/2027 school year. This position is for the school year only. The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) provides occupational therapy services to students within North Adams Public Schools under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist. Responsibilities include implementing individualized and group intervention plans designed to address areas of need such as sensory-motor integration, fine motor development, self-care skills, and activities of daily living. The COTA supports the Occupational Therapist in the administration of assessments and data collection to help determine students' functional performance relative to their age and educational environment. The role also includes monitoring student progress, documenting services, and collaborating with educational staff to support student participation and access to the curriculum. Responsibilities: Maintains progress records; participates in the IEP meeting, as identified by the OT Develops occupational treatment plans and goals for rehabilitative care to improve student functional abilities and enhance their ability to learn. In collaboration with the OTs, provides students with individual treatment and group therapy sessions to correct specific areas of sensory-motor integrative dysfunction. In collaboration with the OTs, develops occupational therapy treatment plans based on the educational goals for eligible students to improve the student's functional abilities within the school and naturalistic settings, in collaboration with the IEP team. In collaboration with the OTs, monitors therapy programs and consults with educational staff regarding inclusion of appropriate occupational therapy treatment strategies into the educational program As assigned by the OT, participates in meetings between NAPS staff and families on the appropriate implementation of programs. Demonstrates educational and developmental strategies to students and families for successful home intervention of perceptual, motor, and sensory programs. Provides interpretation and summaries of assessment reports to families. In collaboration with the OTs, adapts equipment to assure proper positioning and to enhance functional performance of the student, addressing the student's neuromuscular deficits and needs. Consults with other members of the educational team regarding the mandated and best practice roles of occupational therapists. In collaboration with the OTs, administers occupational therapy programs as needed in terms of budget recommendations, space, and equipment recommendations. Performs related duties as assigned, in collaboration with the Occupational Therapists. Supervision: Reports to Director of Student Support Services.