Physical Therapist Assistant

Physical Therapist AssistantUnder the direction and supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist, the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) provides physical therapy services to students in the educational setting. The PTA implements services outlined by the Physical Therapist and student's IEP to support functional mobility, strength, balance, coordination, motor planning, positioning, safety, independence, and access to the educational environment. Services may occur in classrooms, therapy areas, hallways, playgrounds, physical education settings, and other school environments.Essential Duties and Responsibilities:Provide direct physical therapy services under the direction and supervision of the Physical Therapist.Implement treatment activities and interventions consistent with the student's IEP and plan of care.Support development of functional mobility, gross motor skills, balance, coordination, strength, endurance, postural control, motor planning, transfers, positioning, and independence.Assist students in safely accessing and participating in classroom, playground, physical education, and other school activities.Adapt therapeutic activities to support participation in the educational environment.Monitor student response and communicate progress, concerns, or changes in function to the Physical Therapist.Collaborate with teachers, special education staff, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, nurses, paraprofessionals, administrators, families, and other school personnel.Participate in IEP, staffing, child study, and other educational team meetings as requested.Document services and maintain accurate records in accordance with district procedures and Physical Therapist direction.Provide progress data and information to the supervising Physical Therapist.Maintain student confidentiality and comply with applicable federal, state, and district requirements.Participate in professional development, department/building meetings, and required training.Follow district policies, safety procedures, and applicable physical therapy regulations.Qualifications:Associate's degree from an accredited Physical Therapist Assistant program and successful completion of required clinical education.Current Colorado Physical Therapist Assistant license through DORA, or eligibility for licensure.Pediatric, school-based, or experience working with children/students with disabilities preferred.Familiarity with IEPs and special education services preferred.Criminal background check and District fingerprinting required.Skills and Knowledge:Knowledge of pediatric gross motor development, functional mobility, and physical therapy treatment techniques.Ability to implement treatment programs under the direction of a Physical Therapist.Ability to recognize and report changes in student performance or physical status.Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary educational team.Strong communication, organization, documentation, and interpersonal skills.Ability to adapt therapeutic activities to the school environment.Knowledge of mobility, positioning, and adaptive equipment.Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries.Ability to follow direction, exercise appropriate judgment, and seek guidance when needed.Knowledge of State and Federal laws and regulations governing school systems and programs.Ability to communicate, interact and work effectively and cooperatively with people from diverse ethnic and education backgrounds.Ability to recognize the importance of safety in the workplace, follow safety rules, practice safe work habits, utilize appropriate safety equipment and report unsafe conditions to the appropriate administrator.