Kaitlyn Schultz, a rising occupational therapist, has been named the recipient of the New to School Scholarship at ERI’s 2025 Therapies in the School Conference. This prestigious award recognizes promising professionals entering school-based practice and provides free continuing education to support their growth and impact in the field. Kaitlyn’s dedication and potential stood out among applicants, making her a standout choice for this year’s honor.
Kaitlyn is in her first years in one of the nation’s largest districts – Chicago Public Schools. Already, she has demonstrated exceptional commitment and resilience in her transition to this role. With a background in early intervention and hospital-based fieldwork, she entered the world of school-based OT with an open mind, a strong work ethic, and a deep desire to positively impact children and to grow professionally.
The school year took off quickly, with a full caseload of students across multiple sites with varying levels of material and personnel resources. Rather than being discouraged from the steep learning curve, she chose to dedicate her efforts to professional development, research, collaboration, and reflective practices.
From supporting fine motor development to building self-regulation strategies and adapting classroom tasks for greater independence, Kaitlyn’s approach has been grounded in evidence-based and student-focused principles. She views every session as an opportunity to empower students—not just academically, but in functional life skills. In the short term, the awardee is eager to expand her intervention strategies, especially for students with ADHD and handwriting challenges. She’s exploring alternatives to worksheets, seeking engaging activities, and learning how to teach and use sensory tools with intention and efficacy.
Kaitlyn says that one of the most rewarding aspects of her role has been the opportunity to connect in person with students, families, and fellow professionals. After working remotely in early intervention, she’s appreciating all the opportunities for face-to-face collaboration with physical therapists, social workers, and educators.
We are thrilled to award the Therapies in the School 2025 New to School Scholarship to Kaitlyn Schultz! Kaitlyn’s strong commitment to learning, expanding, and refining her practice to support students exemplifies the spirit of this award. Congratulations, Kaitlyn and we can’t wait to see you at the 2025 Therapies in the School Conference in November!
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Therapies in the School Conference
November 20 – 21, 2025
Claire serves a large school district where challenges around equity and inclusion are ever-present. Yet she meets those challenges head-on, striving to meet every student where they are and advocating for their fullest participation in school life. Her collaborative nature shines in her work with OTs, SLPs, educators, administrators, transportation professionals, cafeteria workers and families—finding solutions to support students’ access, participation and opportunities to thrive at school. 
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What You’ll Learn
Kelsie Olds turns handwriting therapy into imaginative play. Through games, crafts, and storytelling, they help children build writing skills in ways that feel fun—not forced.