Rehabilitation Specialist

Position Type:
Student Support Services

Location:
Office of Exceptional Learning

JOB PURPOSE

Under limited supervision, the Rehabilitation Specialist provides professional services aimed at assisting students in overcoming or compensating for challenges in physical performance areas, thereby enhancing their ability to benefit from specialized educational services.

This role may include responsibilities as the Lead Rehabilitation Specialist as assigned. Reports to the Director of Special Services.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Conducts evaluations of referred students by assessing various physical capabilities, including range of motion, muscle strength, tone, sensory systems, fine motor skills, self-help skills, oral-motor skills, and visual-perceptual skills as necessary.

Administers standardized assessments as appropriate.
Communicates evaluation outcomes to parents and educators.
Collaborates with a multi-disciplinary team to develop individualized strategies, accommodations, and the use of adaptive equipment.

Plans, coordinates, and delivers rehabilitation therapy sessions based on evaluation results and recommendations; instructs students in the effective use of adaptive tools.

Maintains accurate and comprehensive documentation for all assigned cases; prepares daily progress notes, quarterly summaries of progress, and updates to Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) as mandated by law and district policy.

Selects, orders, and maintains adaptive equipment tailored to individual student needs.
Engages with school personnel and parents as necessary to discuss student progress and concerns.
Participates as a member of the Assistive Technology Team as appropriate.
Provides training to staff on effective intervention techniques with individual students.

Assists in establishing transportation protocols for students with special needs as appropriate; oversees the transportation of students to and from rehabilitation therapy.

May serve as the Lead Rehabilitation Specialist for the District by facilitating communication and information sharing among Special Services staff and other occupational therapists.

Stays informed about current professional research, trends, and methodologies relevant to school rehabilitation services; attends training sessions, conferences, and workshops to enhance job knowledge and skills.

Responds to inquiries, concerns, and complaints from staff, parents, medical personnel, and students regarding rehabilitation services.
Prepares and processes evaluation reports, intervention plans, case notes, and other documentation as required.

Operates various vehicles and office equipment, including computers, printers, and other technology; utilizes adaptive equipment and physical therapy supplies as needed.

Interacts and communicates effectively with diverse groups, including supervisors, co-workers, district administrators, students, parents, medical professionals, community agencies, vendors, and the general public.

Supervises the activities of assigned interns and Rehabilitation Assistants.

Performs routine administrative tasks as required, including preparing reports, correspondence, and managing documentation.

Performs related duties as necessary.

QUALIFICATIONS

A Master's degree in occupational therapy, rehabilitation science, or a related field is required, supplemented by nine to twelve months of experience providing rehabilitation services, preferably in an educational context, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that equips the individual with the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Must possess current, valid certification by the appropriate Board of Occupational Therapy Examiners. A valid state driver's license is also required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands outlined here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential responsibilities and functions of the job and are not intended to be exhaustive.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential responsibilities and functions of the job.

While performing this job, the staff member shall:
Utilize strength to lift items necessary for job functions.
Engage in sitting, standing, and walking for required durations.
Communicate effectively and utilize vision for various tasks.
Reach with hands and arms and use hands and fingers to handle objects and operate tools and technology.
WORK PLACE EXPECTATIONS
Work effectively with and respond to diverse cultures and backgrounds.

Exhibit professionalism and appropriate judgment in behavior, speech, and attire, maintaining a neat and professional appearance.

Demonstrate regular and punctual attendance.
Adhere to all district policies, work procedures, and reasonable requests from authorities.

DISCLAIMER:
This job description is not an employment agreement or contract. Management reserves the right to modify this job description at any time without notice. The Colleton County School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

APPLICATION PROCEDURES:
External applicants must complete a District application online.

Internal applicants must complete the internal application online and submit a cover letter and resume to the Office of Human Resources.

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