Job Description:
Physical Therapist (PT)
Reports To
Director of Special Education
Position Summary
The School-Based Physical Therapist provides evaluation, consultation, and direct physical therapy services to students whose physical or motor needs impact their ability to access and participate in their educational program. The Physical Therapist collaborates with educators, families, and related service providers to support student success in the least restrictive environment and in accordance with federal and state special education regulations.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Assessment and Evaluation
- Conduct physical therapy evaluations as part of initial evaluations, reevaluations, and targeted assessments.
- Assess students gross motor skills, functional mobility, posture, balance, strength, endurance, and access to the educational environment.
- Interpret evaluation results and prepare written reports that clearly communicate findings and educational implications.
- Participate as a member of multidisciplinary evaluation and planning teams.
Service Delivery
- Provide direct and indirect physical therapy services as outlined in students Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
- Develop measurable goals and objectives related to physical therapy needs.
- Implement evidence-based interventions designed to improve students access to educational activities and environments.
- Monitor student progress and maintain documentation of services and outcomes.
- Recommend modifications, accommodations, and strategies to support student participation throughout the school day.
Consultation and Collaboration
- Collaborate with teachers, administrators, families, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, school psychologists, nurses, and other service providers.
- Provide consultation regarding positioning, mobility, adaptive equipment, accessibility, and participation in school activities.
- Train and support staff in the safe implementation of physical therapy recommendations and mobility procedures.
- Participate in planning for transitions between grades, schools, and post-secondary environments when appropriate.
Equipment and Accessibility
- Evaluate and recommend adaptive equipment, assistive technology, and mobility devices as appropriate.
- Monitor the use, effectiveness, and safety of equipment and positioning systems.
- Assist in ensuring that school environments are accessible and support student participation.
Compliance and Documentation
- Maintain accurate and timely records, service logs, progress reports, and evaluation reports.
- Participate in Planning and Placement Team (PPT) meetings and other required meetings.
- Ensure compliance with IDEA, Section 504, state regulations, district policies, and professional standards.
- Maintain confidentiality of student information.
Professional Responsibilities
- Maintain current licensure and professional competencies.
- Participate in professional development activities related to school-based practice.
- Adhere to ethical standards established by the profession and applicable regulatory agencies.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Special Education or administration.
Qualifications
Education
- Masters or Doctoral degree in Physical Therapy from an accredited program.
Certification/Licensure
- Current Physical Therapist license in the State of Connecticut.
- Eligibility for employment in Connecticut public schools.
Knowledge and Skills
- Knowledge of child development, motor development, and educationally relevant physical therapy practices.
- Understanding of special education laws, regulations, and procedures.
- Ability to work collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to develop and maintain positive relationships with students, families, and staff.
- Proficiency in documentation and data collection systems.
Physical Demands
- Ability to lift, transfer, position, and assist students safely.
- Ability to move throughout school environments and access various educational settings.
- Ability to operate and manage adaptive equipment and mobility devices.
Work Environment
The Physical Therapist works in a variety of educational settings, including classrooms, therapy spaces, community-based instructional environments, and other school facilities. The position requires travel between district schools.