English
Français
Español
Kelly Pediatric Therapy honors outstanding professionals who go above and beyond through our annual Provider of the Year program. These team members work closely with students, teachers, and families to support pediatric development in meaningful, real-world ways.
Amanda Myers, an occupational therapist at Ringing Rocks Elementary in the Pottsgrove School District in Pennsylvania, is our 2026 winner in the Pediatric Related Services category. She is dedicated to helping students build the skills and confidence they need to succeed both in and out of the classroom.
In this Q&A, Amanda shares her story.
What is a typical day like for you as a school-based therapist?
Amanda: I’ve been practicing for about six years, working primarily with students in kindergarten through fourth grade. My role is to support students in developing the skills they need to succeed in school—everything from fine motor and visual skills to emotional regulation and daily self-care.
Every day is a little different, but I usually work with 12 to 15 students, either one-on-one or in small groups. I support students across a variety of classrooms, including learning support, life skills, emotional support, and autistic support.
A big part of my work focuses on building foundational skills—like handwriting, coordination, and self-regulation—but I also incorporate play-based activities. Kids learn so much through play, so I use games and interactive approaches to help them build skills while also working on social interaction, teamwork, and confidence.
Why did you choose to work in a school-based setting?
Amanda: I originally started college as an education major, so I always knew I wanted to work in schools. But I realized I didn’t want to lead a whole classroom. I wanted to work more individually with students.
I’ve worked in other settings like pediatric outpatient and skilled nursing, but school-based therapy is where my heart is. It allows me to support students directly in their everyday environment and routines, which makes a huge difference in how those skills carry over into their daily lives.
What are the benefits of school-based therapy?
Amanda: One of the biggest benefits is that I can support students right in the environment where they need those skills most—the classroom. I can collaborate closely with teachers, principals, special education teams, and parents to make sure everyone is aligned.
That team-based approach is really powerful. It’s not just one person helping a student—it’s a whole group working together to support their growth. That collaboration allows us to create more meaningful and lasting progress.
What motivates you each day?
Amanda: When I wake up, I try to focus on something simple: I’m going to put a smile on a kid’s face today. There’s a lot that comes with the job—deadlines, paperwork—but at the end of the day, it’s about the kids.
I love helping them build confidence, especially when they’re young. If we can give them those foundational skills early on, it sets them up for success not just in school, but long-term.
What inspired you to pursue occupational therapy?
Amanda: I’ve always had a strong influence from my family—they’re very service-oriented and community-focused. I also had a cousin with muscular dystrophy, and seeing the support he received and the adaptations that helped him succeed really shaped my perspective.
That experience showed me how important it is to help people not just do what they need to do, but what they want to do. That’s what led me to occupational therapy and ultimately to working with kids.
How do you approach working with students?
Amanda: I really try to meet each child where they are. Every student has different strengths and needs, so it’s about finding what works best for them.
I also focus a lot on connection. Beyond goals and progress notes, I want students to feel supported, seen, and confident. Sometimes that emotional connection is what helps everything else fall into place.
What advice would you give to new or aspiring therapists?
Amanda: Always remember your “why.” Why did you choose this field? What made you want to help others?
It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day tasks, but staying connected to your purpose makes all the difference. Also, don’t underestimate the value of collaboration—lean on your team and learn from others around you.
What’s something meaningful you’ve seen in your work recently?
Amanda: We recently organized a life skills market at school, where students practiced real-world skills like handling money, serving food, and interacting socially.
It was incredible to see students apply everything they’ve been learning in therapy—whether it was communication, motor skills, or social interaction—in a real-life setting. Moments like that really highlight the impact of what we do.
Congratulations, Amanda!
“Amanda Myers is a true representative of the high-quality therapists that Kelly Pediatric Therapy provides to its partner schools each day,” says Nicola Soares, President of Kelly Education.
“She operates with high integrity and makes a clear difference in ensuring student success. We are proud to recognize her commitment with this honor.” As one of our Provider of the Year winners, Amanda will receive a $5,000 bonus, as well as $1500 donated on her behalf to Ringing Rocks Elementary in the Pottsgrove School District.
Grow your career with Kelly Pediatric Therapy.
At Kelly Pediatric Therapy we work with occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, physical therapists, psychologists, mental health professionals, and other providers to help you find the right school-based placements.
If you're looking to move forward in your professional career in a way that supports growth, balance, and impact—consider working with us as a school-based therapist.
When you work with Kelly Pediatric Therapy, you’ll enjoy competitive pay, compensation for documentation, access to mentorship, free professional development, and work-free nights, weekends, and holidays. 
Learn more about joining our team.
