Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA)

Position:                         Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA), 11-month employment
Location:                        Milford School District
Reports To:                    Director of Special Programs
Starting Date:                August 2026           
Application Deadline:   July 27, 2026 or Until Filled

Position Summary: The Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) supports the delivery of school-based occupational therapy services under the supervision and direction of a licensed Occupational Therapist, in accordance with Delaware Board of Occupational Therapy Practice requirements. The COTA assists in implementing individualized intervention plans that promote student independence, functional performance, and access to the educational environment. This role involves close collaboration with related service providers, teachers, families, and administrators to support the development of occupational skills that enhance student participation in academic tasks, daily living routines, and pre-vocational activities. Strong organizational skills, effective communication, and accurate data collection are essential. Experience in school-based or pediatric therapy settings is preferred.

Qualifications: 

• Hold or be eligible for a license as Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) in the State of Delaware issued by Delaware Board of Occupational Therapy Practice.
• Experience as a COTA in a school system or other pediatric practice setting preferred.

Performance Responsibilities: This list is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, knowledge, or ability associated with this role but is intended to accurately reflect the principle job elements.

• Assist in the delivery of occupational therapy services under the supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist by implementing intervention plans and reinforcing occupational skills that support student independence and functional performance.
• Support students in developing occupational skills that promote success in academic tasks, daily living routines, and pre-vocational activities.
• Collaborate and co-treat with physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, and other related service providers as appropriate.
• Provide observations and input on student performance to assist the supervising OT in developing and updating IEP goals, benchmarks, and service recommendations.
• Create and maintain therapy schedules, prepare materials, and organize treatment sessions to support efficient and effective service delivery.
• Implement and model sensory–motor strategies, task modifications, and the use of therapy materials, tools, adaptive equipment, and assistive technology.
• Deliver direct individual and group therapy, as well as indirect consultative support, in accordance with IEP requirements and under the direction of the supervising OT.
• Communicate regularly with the supervising OT, teachers, administrators, parents, and staff regarding student participation, progress, and functional needs.
• Collaborate with school personnel to identify student needs and contribute to solutions addressing learning, behavioral, sensory, and functional challenges.
  Participate in IEP meetings, student meetings, and relevant school committees as requested by the supervising OT or administration.
  Maintain accurate documentation, data collection, and professional records in compliance with district, state, and federal requirements.
• Engage in required district professional development and pursue additional learning opportunities to support continued professional competence.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

 Essential Employment Condition: By accepting employment as an 11-month employee with the Milford School District, you acknowledge and understand that:

• A primary responsibility during the summer months (June–August) is to support district-run summer programming for special education students, Extended School Year (ESY), and/or other specialized instructional or support services.
• 11-month employees are expected to maintain flexibility in scheduling to fulfill assigned duties related to summer instruction, student services, or program coordination. The Director of Special Programs shall make every effort to inform 11-month employees of their assigned summer responsibilities by