Therapist, Physical/Occupational/Speech, ESY (TEMPORARY) (9929)

Job Description

Job Title

Therapist, Physical

Evaluation Type

Professional

Department

Special Programs & Services

Pay Grade

A3

FLSA

Exempt

Date Revised

February 2019

Supervisor

Director of Special Programs & Services

BASIC FUNCTION & RESPONSIBILITY: Plan and provide direct therapy to students with physical disabilities. Assess students and plan therapeutic intervention to eliminate or reduce problems or impairments that interfere with students' ability to derive full benefit from the educational program.

CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: The essential functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the characteristic duties, responsibilities, knowledge, skills, and abilities noted herein; however, this is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by positions found in this job description.

Major Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Plan and provide direct and consultative services consistent with physical therapy goals contained

in students' Individual Education Plans (IEP).

2. Evaluate student progress and determine readiness for termination of physical therapy services.

3. Design, construct, and alter equipment. Provide students with adaptive equipment and devices.

Assessment:

4. Assess students with physical disabilities and determine eligibility for services.

5. 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.

6. Adapt or recommend adaptation of the school environment.

Consultation:

7. Consult with educational staff regarding the use of specialized equipment and materials.

8. Consult with district and outside personnel including private therapists and other medical staff regarding

the physical and medical needs of students.

9. Provide staff development training in assigned schools to help school personnel understand

students with physical disabilities.

10. Consult with parents, teachers, administrators, and other relevant people to enhance their work with students.

Student Management:

11. Create an environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the maturity level, interests, and needs of the student.

12. Establish control and administer discipline according to the Student Code of Conduct and student handbook.

Program Management:

13. Develop and coordinate a continuing evaluation of the physical therapy program and make changes based on the findings.

14. Assist in the selection of equipment and adaptive materials.

Administration:

15. Compile, maintain, and file all physical and computerized reports, records, and other required documents.

16. Comply with policies established by federal and state law, State Board of Education rule, and local board policy.

17. Comply with all district and assigned campus routines and regulations.

18. Effectively communicate with colleagues, students, and parents.

19. Participate in professional development activities to improve skills related to job assignments.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• 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

ENTRY QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in physical therapy or related program
• Valid Texas license as a physical therapist granted by the Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners

EXPERIENCE: One-year experience as a physical therapist

SUPERVISION EXERCISED: Supervise physical therapy assistant(s).

EQUIPMENT USED: Use of specific adaptive equipment that make include mobility devices, adaptive seating and standing equipment

PHYSICAL & MENTAL DEMANDS:

• Maintain emotional control under stress
• Interpret policies, procedures, and data
• Regular districtwide travel to multiple work locations as assigned
• Moderate lifting and carrying
• May be required to lift and transfer students to and from wheelchair or assist with positioning students with physical disabilities