New Practitioner Network

If you're new to school-based occupational therapy or strengthening your impact, you may be discovering that graduate school prepared you to become an occupational therapist but school practice requires learning an entirely new system.

You may be asking questions such as:

• How do I manage a caseload?

• What should I include in my evaluations?

• How do I write educationally relevant goals?

• How do I balance direct services, consultation, and collaboration?

• How do I navigate IEP meetings?

• Am I doing enough?

• Am I doing the right things?

The truth is that every experienced school-based practitioner has asked these same questions.

School-based practice is complex. It requires understanding educational systems, legislation, team collaboration, participation-focused intervention, evidence-informed decision making, and the unique role of occupational therapy in supporting student success.

The ESOT First Year School-Based Practitioner Mentor Program was created to support practitioners through that journey. Through monthly guidance, professional learning modules, mentorship opportunities, and a community of colleagues who understand the realities of school practice, our goal is simple: to help you build confidence, competence, and a strong foundation for a successful career in school-based occupational therapy.

We're glad you're here.

Tell us:👉 What is the biggest challenge, question, or uncertainty you are facing as you begin your school-based practice journey? Please feel free to share your lessons learned as you reflect on your successes of the past school year. !