Physical Therapist

Primary Purpose:

Plan and provide direct therapy to students with physical disabilities. Provide therapeutic intervention to eliminate or reduce problems or impairments that interfere with students' ability to derive full benefit from the educational program.

Qualifications:

Education/Certification:

Valid Texas license as a physical therapist granted by the Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners

Special Knowledge/Skills:

Knowledge of medical information and indications for physical therapy treatment

Skill in use of tests and measurements for assessing physical function

Ability to administer manual exercises and physical therapy treatments

Ability to instruct students and manage their behavior

Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills

Experience:

One year experience as a physical therapist

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

Therapy:

Plan and provide direct and consultative services consistent with physical therapy goals contained in students' Individual Education Plans (IEP). Evaluate student progress and make recommendations regarding physical therapy services.

Consultation:

• Consult with district and outside personnel including referring healthcare provider, private therapists, and other medical staff regarding the physical and medical needs of students. Assist in the selection of equipment and adaptive materials.
• Present staff development in assigned schools as requested. Conduct one-on-one consultation with teachers, aides, parents, and others to apprise them of individual student needs and requirements related to the student's physical therapy.

Student Management:

• Create an environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the maturity level, interests, and needs of the student.
• Establish control and administer discipline according to the Student Code of Conduct and student handbook.

Program Management:

• Participate in the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee to assist with interpretations of assessment data, appropriate placement, and goal setting for students with physical disabilities according to district procedures.
• Develop and coordinate a continuing evaluation of the physical therapy program and make changes based on the findings.

Administration:

• Compile, maintain, and file all reports, records, and other required documents.
• Comply with policies established by federal and state law, State Board of Education rule, and local board policy. Comply with all district and assigned campus routines and regulations.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

Supervise the work of physical therapy assistant(s).

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

Tools/Equipment Used:

Physical therapy equipment; special need adaptive equipment; standard office equipment including computer and peripherals

Posture:

Frequent standing, sitting, kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting

Motion:

Frequent walking, grasping/squeezing, wrist flexion/extension

Lifting:

Regular heavy lifting (45 pounds or more) and positioning of students with physical disabilities; controlling behavior through physical restraint; assisting nonambulatory students

Environment:

Exposure to biological hazards, bacteria, and communicable diseases; may require districtwide travel

Mental Demands:

Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under pressure

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