Physical Therapist (2026-2027)

Physical Therapist

Position Summary: Assesses neuro/muscular/skeletal disorders in school-aged children for the purpose of identifying educationally relevant accommodations, adaptations, and/or to develop instructional or therapeutic interventions as indicated by the assessments.

Minimum Qualifications: Education, training, experience, licensure, and certification license and evidence of insurability current first aid card required or to be obtained within the district. Criminal justice fingerprint clearance. Must meet current certification requirements as set forth by the State of Oregon Physical Therapy Licensing Board.

Special Knowledge/Skills: Skills to apply assessment techniques and treatment modalities, interpret test data, communicate effectively. Knowledge of assessment instruments and techniques and treatment modalities, relevant education laws, state and district policies, and child development patterns. Ability to lift students according to acceptable risk factor guidelines (up to 60 pounds maximum without additional support). Exact lifting requirements will vary based upon student weight, tone and transfer positions/space. Abilities to sit for prolonged periods, complete a case study and develop an individual education plan; work independently, be flexible and work under time constraints, and work effectively with staff, parents, students and community. Significant physical abilities include lifting/carrying/pushing/pulling, reaching/handling/keyboarding, talking/hearing conversations, near/far visual acuity, visual accommodation. Maintains confidentiality regarding school, students, families, staff and activities. Emotional and physical stamina to perform duties required by the designated task except for a temporary disability.

Major Responsibilities and Duties: Screens and/or assesses students to determine the need for further individualized assessments and to determine the current level of performance. Determines the level of education-based physical therapy service as documented by current assessment(s) to enable student access to school. Assists in the drafting of an Individual Education Program (IEP) based upon student need. Implements Individual Education program (IEP) based upon student need including present level of academic achievement and functional development as well as grade level short term outcomes. Participates as a member of an interdisciplinary team in planning and implementing student programs. Schedules instruction and/or physical therapy to coordinate with classroom activities and services from other disciplines and tracks service time. Provides instruction, therapy and/or consultation in the motor skills or physical management of students. Researches resources and methods (i.e., intervention and treatment techniques, assessment tools and methods, community resources, etc.) for the purpose of determining appropriate approach for addressing students' physical therapy goals. Obtains needed equipment, modifies/makes equipment as needed to improve student performance. Uses a variety of adaptive equipment (as needed). Monitors student performance in IEP goal areas. Collects data, maintains records, prepares documentation and writes reports (e.g., evaluations, observations, progress, contacts with parents, teachers and outside professionals, etc.) for the purpose of providing written support, developing recommendations and/or conveying information. Attends and participates in required meetings (e.g., IEP conferences, parent meetings, in-services, etc.) for the purpose of developing plans and/or providing information regarding students' physical therapy goals. 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. Acts as a liaison between parents and related professionals or agencies to coordinate student services. Directs the activities of a Licensed Physical Therapy Assistant, when LPTA is employed, with regard to service provision and schedule of work and assists in LPTA evaluation. Adheres to policies of the school district, procedures of the department and state and federal law. Acts as a resource person in the area of physical therapy services. Trains specialists and assistants working with students with physical and behavioral difficulties in proper lifting, carrying and moving techniques. Presents information on various topics related to professional expertise in physical therapy for the purpose of communicating information and gaining feedback on treatment issues. Assists other personnel as may be required for the purpose of supporting them in the completion of their work activities. Documents student progress and reports such to instructional staff and parents. Maintains and submits reports to supervisor related to physical therapy, including necessary documentation for Medicaid billing. Attends workshops, staff development classes and meetings, seminars and other meetings for continued professional growth as requested or approved by the Director of Student Support Services and/or designee and for continuation of required licensure. Adhere to daily working schedule. Self manage workload. Performs other related duties as determined by the Director of Student Support Services and/or designee, which are indicated to assure the physical and emotional well-being of students. Vehicle required between various school sites to provide support and services to students and schools.

Physical Requirements: Ability to: Sit, stand or walk for prolonged periods of time. Talk and hear conversations. Use precise control of fingers and hand movement, often in a repetitive movement such as keyboarding. Reach for and handle objects. Use close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus. Regularly focus on a computer screen. Bending, stooping, kneeling and lifting up to 15-45 pounds may also be required on occasion.

Workplace Expectations: Maintaining regular and punctual attendance. In case of an absence site and/or district protocol for reporting absences is followed. Maintaining appropriate confidentiality regarding information relating to students, staff, and district operations. Dress in a professional and appropriate manner for the assignment and the work setting. Exercising prudent judgment. Work independently in the performance of routine duties. Follow all District policies and work procedures. Utilize the District's electronics systems and applications only for purposes related to the position. Participate in required meetings and trainings related to the position. Cultivate and model a respectful working and learning environment.