Physical Therapist

Physical Therapist

A physical therapist evaluates students with motor and/or sensory disabilities in addition to planning and implementing interventions so that these students may access the educational curriculum in the least restrictive environment.

Responsible to: Director of Special Education

Qualifications:

• Graduate of an accredited physical therapy program with entry-level credentials in physical therapy.
• Current licensure to practice physical therapy.
• Knowledge of pediatric conditions and pediatric physical therapy.
• Knowledge of and compliance with Arkansas special education regulations and the procedures.

Essential Functions:

• Evaluate and plan for physical therapy intervention required in the school setting.
• Assist students in gaining functional independence to more completely benefit from the educational environment.
• Communicate effectively with district personnel and families.
• Support the value of education.
• Support the mission and philosophy of the school district.
• React to change productively and handle other tasks as assigned.
• Appropriately operate all equipment as required.
• Communicate effectively with all members of the school district.
• Comply with all district policies, rules and regulations.

Physical Requirements/Environmental Conditions:

• Requires the ability to manually move, lift, carry, pull or push heavy objects or persons.
• Requires the ability to drive between schools in the district.
• Occasionally requires the ability to stoop, bend and reach.
• Requires extensive use of hands.
• Requires the ability to occasionally travel.
• Must be able to work in noisy crowded environments.
• Requires regular attendance and/or physical presence at the job.

General Responsibilities:

• Assess identified students to determine whether there is an educationally significant need for physical therapy.
• Participate on the Individual Education Plan (IEP) team to establish goals, objectives and the length of time required to achieve the goals.
• Schedule and deliver the physical therapy interventions with students as determined in the IEP.
• Consult with special education teachers, general education teachers, paraprofessionals, speech and occupational therapists, physical education teachers, nurses, school administrators, bus drivers and other school personnel as well as parents to provide information and recommendations regarding students with physical disabilities.
• Communicate with physicians, and service agencies regarding orthotics and adaptive equipment needs for the student.
• Instruct classroom personnel (teachers/paraprofessionals) in safe transfer techniques.
• Instruct and supervise classroom personnel in carrying out specific programs for individual students.
• Monitor the students' progress toward goals and objectives and provide written reviews every semester.
• Assist students in developing feelings of self-worth and in making social adjustments that permit them to cope with disabilities.
• Maintain appropriate, confidential records and provide timely reports.
• Order and maintain an adequate inventory of materials and supplies.
• Assist with public awareness activities that lead to a better understanding of the needs of exceptional children.
• Keep abreast of new information, ideas and techniques in pediatric physical therapy and practice in educational environments.
• Obtain prior approval for all special activities and expenditures.
• Ensure that school district policies are observed during all activities.
• Adhere to all district health and safety policies.
• Other duties as assigned by the Director of Special Services and building administrator, which are consistent with the general requirements and qualifications for the position.