The OT Schoolhouse Podcast for School-Based OT Practitioners

Jayson Davies
  • 4.9 (190)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Jayson Davies, OTR/L, from OTSchoolhouse.com dives into the areas of school-based Occupational Therapy most frequently discussed by therapists. Join Jayson and special guests in exploring new practice strategies and earn professional development for certification renewal.

  1. Everyday Ethics in School-Based OT"

    5D AGO

    Everyday Ethics in School-Based OT"

    Everyday Ethics in School-Based OT: Navigating Challenges with Clarity & Confidence equips school-based occupational therapists with the tools to confidently address real-world ethical dilemmas that arise in educational settings. Through case studies, decision-making frameworks, and updated guidance from AOTA, FOTA, and state-level regulations, participants will strengthen their ability to apply ethical principles to complex situations involving service delivery, documentation, advocacy, and the use of emerging tools like AI. This course enhances professional judgment, reduces uncertainty when facing ethical pressures, and promotes alignment with best practices and legal requirements. Ultimately, attendees will leave with actionable strategies to advocate for ethical change within their districts while maintaining student-centered, legally compliant, and neurodiversity-affirming care. Listen now to learn the following objectives: Learners will identify and describe modern ethical dilemmas within the school setting.Learners will apply ethical decision-making frameworks within the school-based setting case study.Learners will identify strategies for ethical advocacy and communication within the school setting. Visit pearsonassessments.com/OTResources to explore assessments designed with your clinical reasoning in mind.   Thanks for tuning in! Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together. Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com See you in the next episode!

    50 min
  2. Realistic Strategies to Build Work Skills for High School and Transition-Aged Students

    OCT 20

    Realistic Strategies to Build Work Skills for High School and Transition-Aged Students

    Matthew Husband, OTD, OTR/L shares his innovative "Get to Work" program, an after-school initiative providing realistic work experiences for high school students who could succeed in employment with the right supports. The program follows a monthly pattern with on-campus training focused on hard and soft skills, followed by community-based experiences at actual workplaces including pizzerias, box stores, grocery stores, and laundry facilities. Matthew discusses how occupational therapists can support transition planning through self-determination skills training and standardized resource guides for students and families. He emphasizes the importance of starting small with on-campus work opportunities if off-campus trips aren't feasible, including mail room tasks, cafeteria work, recycling programs, and classroom helper roles. Whether you work in a private or public school setting, this episode offers practical strategies to prepare students for life after graduation through building confidence in their employment abilities. Listen to discover how Matthew's "four pots garden" analogy demonstrates how small projects can grow with proven success and learn actionable ways to incorporate employment readiness skills into your school-based OT practice. Listen now to learn the following objectives: Learners will identify how to implement strategies for developing realistic work experiences (off-campus partnerships or on-campus tasks) and how these experiences contribute to authentic work readiness.Learners will recall the content and purpose of a standardized transition resource guide, including tailoring content to local resources and explaining its role in family engagement.Learners will explain how self-determination training helps students identify their preferences, strengths, and weaknesses, and how to write and track SMART goals to support employment outcomes after graduation. Visit pearsonassessments.com/OTResources to explore assessments designed with your clinical reasoning in mind.   Thanks for tuning in! Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together. Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com See you in the next episode!

    1h 4m
  3. The Hidden Advantage: Why OTs Hold the Key to School Success Through Self-Regulation

    OCT 6

    The Hidden Advantage: Why OTs Hold the Key to School Success Through Self-Regulation

    OTs hold the key to school-wide success by grounding self-regulation in sensory-motor regulation—not just in emotions. In this episode, Sherry Shellenberger and Jennie Largent show how the Alert Program provides a foundational layer many SEL programs miss, share practical strategies for piloting change, and explain how to talk with administrators to secure support and funding. Tune in to learn clear steps to expand OT impact from individual support to whole-school change. Listen now to learn the following objectives: Identify and effectively communicate the value of sensory-motor self-regulation approaches to administrators and decision-makers by collecting meaningful data through pilot programs and by developing stakeholder-specific documentation. Identify opportunities to integrate self-regulation programs, such as The Alert Program for Self-Regulation, with existing SEL programs, and discover the foundational role of sensory-motor regulation in supporting emotional regulation. Identify strategies to be effective change agents within school settings by collaborating with colleagues, applying evidence-based practices, and establishing systems that demonstrate the unique value of the occupational therapy approach to self-regulation; discover approaches to sustain and scale impact. Visit pearsonassessments.com/OTResources to explore assessments designed with your clinical reasoning in mind.   Thanks for tuning in! Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together. Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com See you in the next episode!

    1h 13m
  4. Bridging the Gap in Occupational Therapy's Role in the Homeschooling Journey

    SEP 22

    Bridging the Gap in Occupational Therapy's Role in the Homeschooling Journey

    In this exciting episode, we're thrilled to welcome back Sarah Collins, a pioneer in the world of homeschooling and occupational therapy. It’s been over five years since Sarah first joined us, right at the onset of the pandemic, and so much has evolved since then. With over 3 million students now homeschooled in the United States, understanding the intersection of occupational therapy and homeschooling has never been more crucial. Sarah brings a unique three-sided perspective as an occupational therapist, a dedicated homeschooling parent, and a mother of a neurodivergent child. Together, we get into how homeschooling has transformed, the challenges families face, and the vital role OT practitioners can play in supporting these students. Join us as we explore the innovative ways OT can adapt to the individualized learning environments of homeschooled students, the importance of collaboration with families, and how to address their unique needs effectively. Whether you're currently working with homeschool families or anticipate encountering students transitioning from homeschool to traditional settings, this conversation is packed with valuable insights that will enhance your practice. Listen now to learn the following objectives: Learners will analyze the unique culture and philosophy of homeschooling to effectively collaborate with homeschool families without questioning their educational choices Learners will develop skills for supporting transitions between homeschool and traditional school settings, including identifying accommodations parents naturally provide at home that may need to be continued in school Learners will identify approaches for providing occupational therapy services to homeschooled students through various delivery models (nature-based, private practice, public school services where available) while respecting the individualized nature of homeschool education. Visit pearsonassessments.com/OTResources to explore assessments designed with your clinical reasoning in mind.   Thanks for tuning in! Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together. Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com See you in the next episode!

    1h 6m
  5. Your BOT-3 Questions Answered!

    SEP 8

    Your BOT-3 Questions Answered!

    Discover the exciting updates and enhancements of the BOT-3 assessment tool with Dr. Elizabeth Munsell, Research Director at Pearson. Learn how this latest version offers updated norms, supplemental scores, and innovative features designed specifically for school-based occupational therapy practitioners. Dr. Munsell explains the key differences between BOT-2 and BOT-3, including new growth scale values for better progress monitoring and specialized scoring options like the Planning and Coordination subtest. She also shares practical insights on how to use assessment results to connect motor performance with functional academic and social participation goals. Join Jayson Davies for this episode that answers your most pressing questions about transitioning to the BOT-3 and maximizing its clinical value. Listen now to enhance your assessment practices and better support your students' motor development needs! Listen now to learn the following objectives: Learners will identify the key differences between the BOT-2 and BOT-3, including updated norms, supplemental scores, and growth scale values (GSVs).Learners will explain how the new features of the BOT-3 can support connections between motor performance and functional, academic, and social participation.Learners will recognize practical considerations for transitioning to the BOT-3, such as communicating its value to administrators and using it in school-based practice. Visit pearsonassessments.com/OTResources to explore assessments designed with your clinical reasoning in mind.   Thanks for tuning in! Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together. Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com See you in the next episode!

    59 min
  6. Brewing Community with A Neurodiversity-Affirming Model for Transition-Age Youth

    AUG 25

    Brewing Community with A Neurodiversity-Affirming Model for Transition-Age Youth

    Join Jayson Davies as he sits down with occupational therapists and co-founders of B3 Coffee, Jacqueline and Greg Boheler, to explore their unique, neurodiversity-affirming non-profit. They share how they've built a multi-faceted organization that includes a transitional employment model and a robust community program to support young adults with disabilities beyond high school. This episode provides invaluable insight into how school-based OTs can support transition-age youth by focusing on foundational skills and connecting families with crucial adult services. You will also get a look at B3 Coffee's exciting plans to launch a replicable "clubhouse" model for the IDD community. Listen now to be inspired to facilitate meaningful change for your students and your community! Listen now to learn the following objectives: Learners will identify why a "cliff" occurs and recognize the urgency of addressing it by connecting students and families with crucial adult resources and advocating for a focus on lifelong skills. Listeners will understand the significant gap in services and support that many young adults with disabilities experience after graduating high school. Listeners will grasp the occupational therapist's vital role in helping students develop a comprehensive, occupation-based transition portfolio.  Visit pearsonassessments.com/OTResources to explore assessments designed with your clinical reasoning in mind.   Thanks for tuning in! Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together. Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com See you in the next episode!

    51 min
  7. Crafting Your Role as an OTP in the School Community

    AUG 11

    Crafting Your Role as an OTP in the School Community

    In this episode, Jayson sits down with Amy Fehr, MSOT, OTR/L, an experienced school-based OT and current clinical advisor at BlazerWorks, to tackle the pressing challenges and exciting opportunities that all therapists—whether contracted, new, or in-district—face in the ever-evolving landscape of school settings. Discover how to effectively build rapport with staff, advocate for the vital role of occupational therapy, and navigate the complexities of district onboarding and supervision. Are you ready to elevate your practice and make a meaningful impact in your school community? Whether you're just starting out or looking to enhance your established role, this episode is packed with practical tips and insights to help you thrive and feel truly valued within your school team.  Tune in now and take the next step in making a lasting impact on your students and school community! Listen now to learn the following objectives: Learners will identify effective strategies for OT practitioners to build rapport with school staff and administrators. Learners will understand how to leverage IEPs and team meetings to advocate for the OT role. Learners will recognize ways to support professional identity, confidence, and inclusion in school teams. Learners will understand how district leadership can foster a more inclusive environment for all OT practitioners. Visit pearsonassessments.com/OTResources to explore assessments designed with your clinical reasoning in mind.   Thanks for tuning in! Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together. Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com See you in the next episode!

    59 min
  8. How to kick off the School Year with Confidence

    JUL 28

    How to kick off the School Year with Confidence

    Are you a school-based occupational therapist looking to streamline your practice, build stronger collaborations, and navigate the complexities of documentation, assessments, and district requirements?  In this episode, Krupa Kuruvilla shares invaluable tips and systems she's developed over her 10+ years in the field. From managing limited workspace to effective parent communication, her insights will help you kick off the school year with confidence and organization. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, these practical strategies will elevate your OT practice and make your school year more manageable and impactful. Listen now to learn the following objectives: Learners will identify practical strategies for organizing caseloads, documentation, and assessments. Learners will recognize effective communication techniques with teachers, support staff, and families. Learners will understand how to navigate shared workspaces and limited resources in school settings. Visit pearsonassessments.com/OTResources to explore assessments designed with your clinical reasoning in mind.   Thanks for tuning in! Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together. Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.com See you in the next episode!

    1h 6m
See All (190)

4.9
out of 5
190 Ratings

About

Jayson Davies, OTR/L, from OTSchoolhouse.com dives into the areas of school-based Occupational Therapy most frequently discussed by therapists. Join Jayson and special guests in exploring new practice strategies and earn professional development for certification renewal.

Information

You Might Also Like