Program Support Teacher (PST) - Occupational Therapist (OT) - Doyle - 0.3 FTE - 26-27 SY

About the Role

Under the direct supervision of Associate Superintendent of Student Services, the primary role of the Special Education Program Support Teacher (PST) for Occupational Therapy (OT) in the Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) is to support OT and Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) staff who educate students with disabilities. In fulfilling this role, the PST OT provides services to MMSD special and regular education staff, students, and administrators. Also the PST OT collaborates with families and community service providers. This position will have a high degree of integrity, sustain a culture of continuous improvement, and be committed to creating and maintaining an inclusive work environment while having a growth mindset to a multi-faceted operation while having a focus on creating a positive work culture.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Staff Training and Support - 50%

• Program Support and Information Management 45%
• Identify or assist with assistive technology needs unique to students with motor and/or sensory concerns
• Serve as a consultant on IEP teams as needed
• Provide OT assessment information to special education coordinator(s) and IEP teams regarding physical accessibility of the location(s) of a students' education program across MMSD
• Gather and organize information to be used by administration in making program and staff decisions and responding to local and state reporting
• Participate as assigned on District level committees, project teams, staff development projects, work groups as appointed by an administrator
• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of current research in the field of motor and/or sensory concerns to write and implement OT treatment plans aligned with evidence-based services
• Contribute to school staff and parent/family member awareness of sensory concerns and the services available through the district
• Assist with coordination of logging for Medicaid billing
• Maintain MMSD OT website

Other Duties as Assigned - 5%

• Perform other duties as assigned by executive leadership or their representatives or designees
• Attend district and school functions that support MMSD's strategic framework, initiatives, and core values
• Complete any and all district required training
• Build collaborative relationships with business partners

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of federal and state regulations related to special education requirements to support OT and OTA staff in serving students and families
• Skills in assessment & evaluation, conducts standardized OT evaluations and delivers legally compliant reports within required timelines to establish student eligibility, baselines and IEP goals
• Knowledge of evidence-based intervention, designs, implements, and measures the impact of sensory-motor curricula, positive behavioral supports, and assistive technology to enhance student classroom independence
• Ability to analyze and interpret student data to inform instructional practices and program adjustments
• Ability to manage multiple initiatives and lead cross-functional teams
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders
• Strong organizational skills to manage complex projects, allocate resources and align goals
• Effective use of computer technology and corresponding computerized programs specific to IDEA
• Knowledgeable, skilled and experienced in professional staff development and training, parent training and current research, theory and best practices
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written
• Ability to adapt to a dynamic environment and adjust to new educational trends, policies and regulations
• Demonstrated ability to establish relationships at all levels of the organization and external stakeholders
• Ability to think critically and creatively to resolve issues affecting special education programs

Required Qualifications

• Masters degree in Occupational Therapy
• A minimum of three years of successful experience working with students who receive OT services via their IEP in the school setting

License or Certification Requirements

• OT licensure granted by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. The incumbent must have a current license or obtain a license within a timeframe determined by the District
• Eligible for OT licensure granted by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work under generally safe and comfortable conditions where exposure to environmental factors is minimal and poses little to no risk of injury
• This position requires the ability to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally and may involve walking, sitting, stooping or reaching
• Manual dexterity is necessary for completing general tasks while operating office equipment
• This position may require being stationary for extended periods of time
• Ability to perform work in a variety of indoor and outdoor environments throughout the year, including in inclement weather, spaces without air conditioning, and areas where temperatures may be uncomfortable or fluctuate rapidly

Working Conditions

• Work may require travel to different locations within the district and to off-site meetings
• Position may require working evenings, nights, and some weekends
• Certain positions within the District may allow hybrid work flexibility for a portion of their work schedule, depending on the needs of the position and the work unit. This topic and any remote work flexibility that may be available will be discussed in more detail in the interview process
• School-based positions are required to be in-person unless otherwise directed by the building principal