Across the U.S., school districts are facing a growing problem: the shortage of occupational therapists in schools.
These professionals are essential for helping students succeed academically, socially, and emotionally.
Yet with increasing demand and limited staff, many districts are struggling to provide the services students need.
That’s where SuperKids Pediatric Consulting comes in.
I help schools bridge the gap with practical, flexible, and sustainable solutions that empower educators and support students—even during times of staffing shortages.
Why School-Based Occupational Therapy Matters
Occupational therapy in schools is about ensuring students can participate fully in learning.
School-based OTs support children with:
- Fine motor skills (writing, cutting, using tools)
- Sensory regulation (managing focus, emotions, and classroom transitions)
- Self-care routines (dressing, feeding, independence at school)
- Gross motor skills (posture, balance, classroom endurance)
- Classroom participation (building confidence and access to learning)
Without proper OT support, students may experience academic delays, behavioral challenges, and frustration in the classroom.
Teachers and staff may also feel overwhelmed without expert guidance.
Understanding the OT Shortage in Schools
The occupational therapist shortage in schools is a nationwide issue. Contributing factors include:
High demand: More students are being referred for services each year.
Limited workforce: There are not enough qualified OTs to meet the need.
Burnout: Many school-based OTs are managing unmanageable caseloads.
Recruitment challenges: Smaller districts often struggle to attract therapists.
Stagnant wages/limited growth: OTs are often paid on a separate pay scale from other school staff, leading to wage disparities.
OTs are often seen as “just clinicians,” and this can lead to OTs being overlooked for promotions or administrative roles.
These factors can create long wait times, stretched staff, and unmet student needs.
How SuperKids Pediatric Consulting Supports Districts
SuperKids Pediatric Consulting provides school districts with solutions designed to make the most of available resources and ensure students still receive quality support.
1. Consultative OT Services
I provide consultative support for teachers, special education staff, and administrators.
I offers real-world strategies that can be implemented immediately to improve student outcomes—even when direct OT time is limited.
2. Professional Development & Training
I deliver training sessions for teachers, paraprofessionals, and staff.
Topics include:
Sensory-friendly classroom strategies
Movement and regulation techniques
Fine motor skill support in daily routines
Neurodiversity-affirming practices in schools
With this knowledge, staff feel confident integrating OT-based strategies into their classrooms.
3. Program Development & Systems Support
I partner with districts to design sustainable programs—such as sensory rooms, classroom toolkits, or streamlined service delivery models—that maximize student support while reducing staff stress.
4. Flexible Service Models
No two districts are the same.
SuperKids offers tailored service options, from short-term consultation to long-term program development.
Whether you need to support current OTs or supplement staff, I can adjust to your needs.
5. Long-Term Sustainability
My goal is to create systems that last.
Instead of relying only on additional hires (which may be difficult and costly), I help districts build staff capacity so teachers and paraprofessionals can provide consistent support, while OTs focus on high-need students.
Benefits for Your School District
By partnering with SuperKids Pediatric Consulting, districts can:
- Ease the workload of existing OTs with additional support.
- Improve student outcomes with effective, research-based strategies.
- Maximize limited resources by implementing sustainable programs.
- Boost staff confidence and retention through professional development.
- Promote equity so all students have access to needed services.
Why Choose SuperKids Pediatric Consulting?
At SuperKids, I combine deep expertise in pediatric occupational therapy with a practical understanding of school systems.
My solutions are flexible, accessible, and grounded in real-world experience.
I believe every child deserves the tools to succeed, and I am committed to helping schools provide that—despite staffing shortages.
Take the Next Step
If your district is struggling with the shortage of occupational therapists in schools, SuperKids Pediatric Consulting is here to help.
With consultative services, staff training, and program development, I can bridge the gap and empower your educators to better support students.
Contact SuperKids today to learn how I can partner with your district to strengthen school-based OT services.
Together, we’ll create classrooms where every child has the opportunity to thrive.
SuperKids Pediatric Consulting Services 