Physical Therapist or Physical Therapist Assistant

Physical Therapist / Physical Therapist Assistant (Part-Time)

Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Employment Type: Part-Time

Position Purpose: The Physical Therapist (PT) or Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) supports students with disabilities and physical impairments in achieving success within their least restrictive educational environment. This role involves developing, implementing, and coordinating physical therapy services, while providing evaluations, interventions, and collaborative support to students, families, and school staff.

Essential Functions:

• Develop, implement, and coordinate the school district's physical therapy program, including program philosophy, goals, procedures, and best practices.
• Evaluate students' physical therapy needs using standardized assessments, professional observations, and information gathered from educational and medical sources.
• Interpret assessment results and communicate findings effectively to parents, caregivers, and school staff.
• Participate in the development and implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
• Design and implement individualized intervention strategies to support student growth and independence.
• Create physical management and environmental modification plans for classroom and school activities; train staff on safe implementation techniques.
• Support student transitions from school to community settings and promote independence from therapy services when appropriate goals are achieved.
• Monitor, document, and report student progress toward therapy goals.
• Collaborate with teachers, administrators, parents, physicians, community providers, and other professionals to ensure coordinated and effective services.
• Serve as a resource regarding disabilities, physical impairments, and their impact on student learning and participation.
• Assess needs for assistive technology and adaptive equipment, and recommend solutions that promote student independence.
• Assist with planning safe transportation procedures and emergency evacuation plans for students with physical needs.
• Provide consultation on school accessibility and environmental modifications.
• Maintain accurate documentation and records in compliance with district policies, state regulations, and federal laws.
• Stay current with developments in physical therapy and special education through professional learning opportunities, workshops, seminars, and ongoing collaboration with peers.

Additional Duties: Perform other related duties as assigned by the supervising Physical Therapist and/or school administration.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of physical therapy principles, evidence-based practices, and pediatric therapeutic interventions.
• Understanding of child development and pediatric diagnoses relevant to school-based therapy services.
• Familiarity with educational laws and regulations, including FERPA, Section 504, and IDEA requirements.
• Ability to apply clinical decision-making and outcomes-based interventions within an educational setting.
• Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams, families, and community providers.
• Skilled in selecting and implementing intervention strategies and monitoring their effectiveness.
• Proficiency with technology and software applications, including Microsoft Office and electronic documentation systems.
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and time-management skills.
• Commitment to professional growth and reflective practice.

Physical Demands & Work Environment: At New Horizon Center, team members are dedicated to creating a safe, engaging, and supportive environment for students ages 3-22. Responsibilities include:

• Lifting and supporting students or materials up to 45 lbs.
• Squatting or kneeling to engage with students at eye level.
• Bending, reaching, and moving throughout classrooms and school environments.
• Maintaining organized, clean, and safe learning spaces.
• Actively participating in student activities and fostering a positive, energetic atmosphere.
• Collaborating with colleagues and supporting team needs across classrooms and throughout the building.

Qualifications:

• Certification / Licensure: Current state licensure as a Physical Therapist (PT) or Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA).
• Education: Appropriate degree from an accredited college or university in a related field. Graduation from an accredited Physical Therapy or Physical Therapist Assistant program.
• Experience: Previous successful experience as a Physical Therapist or Physical Therapist Assistant preferred. Experience in a school-based or pediatric setting is highly desirable.

Why Join New Horizon Center? Join a collaborative and compassionate team dedicated to helping students thrive academically, physically, and socially. At New Horizon Center, you'll make a meaningful impact every day while working in a supportive educational environment that values teamwork, growth, and student success.