Which statement is NOT a major role of the school-based occupational therapist?

• A. Reducing environmental barriers that prevent independent student participation in school routines
• B. Completing unfinished classwork and homework with students before the school day begins
• C. Helping teachers by suggesting relevant instructional strategies to facilitate student access to curricular activities
• D. Recommending appropriate assistive technology to promote students' sustained attention

Answer: (B)

In school-based practice, occupational therapists focus on helping students participate fully in school routines and activities by removing barriers, supporting teachers with strategies, and suggesting tools that promote engagement. The idea is to enable the student to do tasks themselves and participate with independence, not to tutor or complete assignments for them. Completing unfinished classwork and homework before the school day begins isn’t typical for an occupational therapist because that responsibility belongs more to teachers or tutors who help with academic tasks. OT actions would instead be to set up supports that help the student start and complete work during the day, such as modifying tasks or providing strategies so the student can work with less delay or frustration.

The other statements fit well with the OT role. Reducing environmental barriers to participation might involve arranging seating, reducing sensory overload, or creating accessible paths through the school day so the student can engage in routines like arrival, transitions, and class activities. Helping teachers by suggesting instructional strategies aligns with OT collaboration—using approaches like task analysis, chunking instructions, or universal design for learning to help the student access curricular activities. Recommending appropriate assistive technology to promote sustained attention reflects how OTs select tools—such as timers, visual supports, or adaptive devices—that help the student stay engaged and participate over longer periods.