About this role
Occupational Therapist (OT) Part-time (one day/8hrs) Summary of position: The Occupational Therapist provides specialized evaluation and therapeutic services to students whose physical, motor, sensory, or functional needs impact educational access and performance. The OT conducts assessments, participates in multidisciplinary evaluations, develops and implements occupational therapy goals within Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and delivers direct and indirect services to support student participation and independence in the educational environment. This role collaborates closely with general education teachers, special education staff, related service providers, and families to ensure that students receive appropriate supports in accordance with federal and state special education requirements. The Occupational Therapist also contributes to school-wide systems of support by identifying barriers to student participation and recommending strategies, accommodations, adaptive equipment, and environmental modifications that promote access to educational activities. Role Boundaries and Escalation: The Occupational Therapist provides occupational therapy evaluation and related services within the school's special education program, in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), New Mexico Public Education Department requirements, and applicable professional licensure standards. The Occupational Therapist has professional authority within their licensure to:
• Conduct occupational therapy evaluations as part of multidisciplinary special education assessments.
• Provide occupational therapy services specified in students' Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
• Develop and implement therapy goals aligned with IEP objectives.
• Monitor and document student progress toward occupational therapy goals.
• Provide professional recommendations to IEP teams regarding students' functional needs, accommodations, adaptive equipment, and appropriate supports.
The Occupational Therapist participates in the IEP team process but does not independently determine special education eligibility, placement decisions, or service levels, which are determined through the appropriate multidisciplinary or IEP team process. This role does not supervise or evaluate staff, interpret school policy, or make administrative decisions. Concerns related to program implementation, compliance, staffing, or service delivery must be escalated to the Student Support Director (SSD). Occupational therapy services are delivered pursuant to students' IEPs or other applicable educational plans. The Occupational Therapist does not independently provide intervention services within the school's Multi-Layered System of Supports (MLSS) tiers, which are implemented through general education and student support systems. The Occupational Therapist is obligated to respond to student misconduct in accordance with the NMIS Student Discipline Matrix. The OT is expected to intervene directly at the level of authority assigned to their role and to escalate concerns when student behavior exceeds that authority. The OT may implement Level 0 and Level 1 disciplinary responses as defined in the Student Discipline Matrix. FLSA Status: Exempt (learned professional) School Personnel Act Classification: Licensed Contracted or “at-will” employment: Contracted Department and Overseeing Director: Student Support Department, Student Support Director (SSD) Immediate supervisor: Student Support Director (SSD)