Description
Position Purpose: Physical Therapists (PT) are members of a multidisciplinary school team that ensures a free and appropriate education for students with disabilities to prepare them for further education, employment, and independent living. Physical Therapists provide expertise in improving, developing, or restoring functions impaired or lost, particularly related to seating/positioning modifications, motor skills, and safety for students. The school-based PT promotes motor development and the student’s participation in everyday routines and activities that are part of the educational program. The PT performs therapeutic interventions, including compensation, remediation and prevention strategies and adaptations, focusing on functional mobility and safe, efficient access and participation in activities and routines in natural learning environments.
Description of Responsibilities: Schedules interventions using a variety of service delivery models, including classroom intervention, consultation/collaboration and pull-out as appropriate to meet student needs in the least restrictive environment. Applies a systematic workload model to facilitate the organization of the PT program within the school. Recruiting and hiring qualified related services personnel, as appropriate. Provides direct support services to students, classrooms, and small groups that are comprehensive and data-driven. Consults with other professionals and community organizations regarding the developmental needs of students. Addresses the needs of the school, student, families, and community by collaborating with Related Services Team and other staff to design a holistic approach to address barriers or problems with the educational process. Administers tests according to appropriate procedures. Assists with designing, implementing, monitoring, and adjusting educational plans for individual students. Completes written reports that are in compliance with Federal, State, and Local Agencies. Develops and provides professional development workshops as requested by the Student Services Coordinator. Participates in family educational opportunities, including but not limited to Parent Empowerment Nights. Supervises student interns, and Related Services Assistants as appropriate. Conducts student education and outreach opportunities, including assemblies and/or classroom instruction. Adheres to and supports Board policy, School guidelines, and administrative rules and directives. Maintains accurate case records and documentation. Maintains current knowledge of Federal, State, and Local laws and regulations and abides by said laws and regulations with emphasis on persons with disabilities, child welfare, mental health, confidentiality, and student and parent rights. Understands, evaluates, and interprets evaluation and performance data. Interprets information about students to the student, their families, and staff. Participates in in-service activities and staff meetings promoted by the School. Performs other duties as assigned by the Student Services Director or School Director.