Physical Therapist

Reports To: Director of Special Education / Student Services
FLSA Status: Exempt
Location: District-wide (serving multiple school sites)

The School-Based Physical Therapist provides specialized physical therapy services to students with disabilities, ensuring access to education and participation in the school environment. The therapist evaluates students' motor skills, develops individualized treatment plans, collaborates with school staff and parents, and supports students in achieving functional independence within the educational setting.

• Assessment & Evaluation

Conduct comprehensive evaluations of students' gross motor abilities, mobility needs, and functional performance in the school setting.

Participate in multidisciplinary evaluations and assess physical development as part of the special education eligibility process.
Review medical records, physician reports, and other relevant documentation.
- Intervention & Treatment

Develop and implement Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals related to mobility, strength, balance, and functional school participation.

Deliver physical therapy services in accordance with IEPs, including direct intervention, consultation, and monitoring.
Provide adaptive equipment recommendations and support proper use of devices such as wheelchairs, walkers, standing frames, or orthotics.
- Collaboration & Communication

Work closely with teachers, special education staff, occupational therapists, school nurses, speech-language pathologists, and parents to support student goals.

Participate in IEP meetings, parent conferences, and student support team meetings.
Train school staff on safe handling, positioning, and motor skill facilitation techniques.
- Documentation & Compliance

Maintain accurate and timely documentation of evaluations, treatment plans, progress reports, and service logs.

Ensure compliance with federal, state, and district regulations, including IDEA and Section 504.
Prepare reports for IEP meetings, eligibility reviews, and Medicaid billing (if applicable).
- Professional Development & Advocacy

Stay informed of current trends, standards, and best practices in pediatric physical therapy and school-based service delivery.

Engage in professional learning opportunities and maintain licensure.
Advocate for inclusive practices and accessibility within the school setting.

Education & Licensure:

Master's or Doctorate degree in Physical Therapy from an accredited program

Valid Physical Therapy License in the state
- Current certification from the National Board for Certification in Physical Therapy (as applicable)

Experience:

Experience working with children and adolescents in a school, pediatric, or clinic setting is preferred.

• Familiarity with IDEA, IEP processes, and school-based service delivery models.

Skills & Competencies:

Strong knowledge of child development, disabilities, and therapeutic interventions.

Excellent communication, documentation, and collaboration skills.
Ability to travel between school sites and manage a flexible caseload.

Ability to lift and assist students with mobility and transfers (up to 50 lbs).

Ability to stand, kneel, and move frequently throughout the school environment.
Must be able to visually and auditorily assess student needs.

Work is performed in a school setting, which may include classrooms, playgrounds, and therapy rooms.

• Requires interaction with students of varying abilities and behaviors.