26-27 Special Education Physical Therapist`

Physical Therapist

The Physical Therapist is responsible for evaluating and providing educationally-based physical therapy services to students with these related services on their Individual Education Plan in the schools.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

The essential functions or responsibilities listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

Assessment & Evaluation

• Conduct physical therapy evaluations in accordance with federal and state regulations (e.g., IDEA, state special education regulations).
• Assess students' gross motor skills, mobility, posture, strength, endurance, and access to the school environment.
• Prepare written evaluation reports with educationally relevant recommendations.
• Participate in re-evaluations and independent educational evaluations (IEEs) as needed.

IEP Development & Compliance

• Participate as a member of the IEP Team.
• Develop measurable IEP goals and objectives related to physical therapy needs.
• Provide input on accommodations, modifications, and service delivery.
• Maintain compliance with timelines, documentation, and regulatory requirements.

Service Delivery

• Provide direct and/or consultative physical therapy services as outlined in IEPs.
• Implement evidence-based interventions to improve functional mobility and access.
• Integrate services within the classroom and school routines when appropriate.
• Support students in accessing the least restrictive environment (LRE).

Collaboration & Consultation

• Collaborate with teachers, special educators, paraprofessionals, and related service providers (e.g., OT, SLP, BCBA).
• Consult with staff on positioning, mobility, adaptive equipment, and environmental modifications.
• Provide training and support to staff on implementing physical therapy strategies.

Documentation & Progress Monitoring

• Maintain accurate and timely service logs and session notes.
• Monitor student progress and report on IEP goals.
• Provide progress reports aligned with reporting periods.
• Track missed services and support compensatory service planning if needed.

Assistive Technology & Equipment

• Evaluate and recommend adaptive equipment (e.g., seating systems, mobility devices).
• Collaborate with vendors and families regarding equipment needs.
• Ensure proper use, maintenance, and safety of equipment.

Compliance & Program Support

• Adhere to all district, state, and federal regulations.
• Participate in team meetings, professional development, and program planning.
• Support district initiatives related to inclusive practices and access.

Key Responsibilities of the job

• Maintains and manages a caseload comprised of physically disabled students in the schools.
• Works collaboratively with the Special Education Department Coordinator/IEP Team Leader and school team to develop educationally based IEPs for physically disabled students.

Supervises

• Supervise Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs), if applicable.
• Delegate tasks in accordance with state licensure laws and district policy.
• Provide guidance and oversight to ensure fidelity of service delivery.

Qualifications

• Appropriate DESE License
• Graduate from an accredited institution recognized by the American Medical Association with a minimum of a Bachelor's of Science degree in Physical Therapy.
• Registered in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts by the Board of Allied Health.
• Prior experience in a school setting preferred, pediatric experience preferred.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the position's essential functions.

• Mobility: Frequent walking, standing, and navigating stairs.
• Lifting/Strength: Ability to lift, push, pull, or carry objects ranging from 10 to 30 lbs (e.g., books, supplies, equipment).
• Physical Dexterity: Bending, crouching, kneeling, stooping, and reaching to assist students.
• Stationary Tasks: Remaining in a stationary position (sitting/standing) for long periods.

Reporting Relationships

• Position Reports to: Director of Special Education

Terms of Employment

• Position Type: Full Time
• FLSA Classification: Exempt
• Union Status: SEU, Unit A
• Salary and benefits are determined in accordance with the Somerville Educators Union, Unit A collective bargaining agreement and the policies of the Somerville School Committee.

Pre-Employment Requirements

• MA Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) Clearance
• Fingerprints

The Somerville Public School does not discriminate in its programs, facilities or employment of educational opportunities on the basis of race, color, age, religion, disability, pregnancy, home status, marital/civil union status, sex/gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, citizenship status, place of birth, national origin, ancestry, cultural identity, genetics or military status, and does not tolerate any form of retaliation, or bias-based intimidation, threat or harassment that demeans individuals' group or interferes with their ability to learn or work.