Nicole Maher, MS, OTR/L, CHT, serves Pine Valley Central School as an Occupational Therapist and Certified Hand Therapist, and she’s this week’s #PeopleBehindThePanther spotlight!

Nicole joined the district through a contract agency in 2003, but was hired by PVCS in 2014.

“The best part of my day is getting to spend time with my students and collaborating with Pine Valley staff to develop creative ways to help kids learn both academics and how to have fun!” she said. “My heart is so happy when I see my students progress, make friends, and learn how to play.”

Occupational Therapy plays a huge role here at Pine Valley, even though it may not be something many have heard of or experienced, Nicole said.

“OT is provided to all grade levels in both buildings as well as a significant amount of consultation behind the scenes to assist student success,” she said. “OTs target needs in the areas of fine motor skills, visual motor skills, visual perceptual skills, sensory processing, handwriting development, life skills, executive functioning, seating and positioning...the list goes on and on!”

Thanks for all you do for the #PantherFamily, Nicole!