PROFESSIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Successfully completed and graduated from an accredited physical therapy professional program.
- Current Illinois license in Physical Therapy.
DESIRED SKILLS:
- Two years of experience as a Pediatric Physical Therapist preferred.
- Public school experience.
REPORTS TO:
Director of Special Education or designated individual.
JOB GOAL:
Supports the education of students suspected of and/or diagnosed with a disability in their least restrictive environment. The school physical therapist develops, implements, and coordinates a physical therapy program within the local educational agency (LEA), providing screening, evaluation, and intervention services. Assists educators in identifying students who may benefit from physical therapy intervention and provides services in accordance with a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP). Participates as a member of the educational team and assists in program development to incorporate physical therapy strategies into the classroom to benefit all students. Consults with regular education and special education staff and parents regarding implementing physical therapy interventions for an individual student into the educational setting. Provides in-service training to District staff as appropriate.
PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Assesses student’s functional capabilities and/or classroom environment for the purpose of determining student’s functional level and developing recommendations and/or curriculum access.
- Assesses student’s gross motor and development skills (e.g. perceptual-motor, motor coordination, sensory development, muscle strength, etc.) for the purpose of determining their deficits and developing recommendations.
- Communicates with students, parents, teachers, and/or other personnel for the purpose of evaluating situations, solving problems, and/or resolving conflicts.
- Consults with students, parents, and guardians for the purpose of enhancing student access and mobility in school and in school-related activities/functions.
- Consults with teachers, parents, other personnel, and/or outside professionals for the purpose of providing requested information, developing plans for services, and/or making recommendations.
- Coordinates with the IEP team for the purpose of determining appropriate treatments, etc. to meet the needs of specific students and attends IEP Team Meetings.
- Develops treatment plans, interventions, and/or educational materials from the IEP for the purpose of remediating students’ motor skill deficits and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Facilitates meetings, processes, etc. for the purpose of meeting curriculum guidelines and/or ensuring that state mandates are achieved.
- Identifies structural issues for the purpose of removing barriers for students with physical limitations and/or identifying appropriate adaptive equipment and/or devices.
- Instructs students and staff for the purpose of providing information on medical attributes, use of adaptive equipment, and/or implementing plans for remediation of functional limitations.
- Participates in meetings, workshops, and seminars as assigned for the purpose of conveying and/or gathering information required to perform functions.
- Prepares a wide variety of written materials in compliance with State, Federal, and administrative regulations (e.g. quantity reports, student activities, correspondence, internal audits, etc.) for the purpose of documenting activities, providing written reference, and/or conveying information.
- Provides services at multiple work sites for the purpose of providing direct therapy interventions and assistance as required.