Physical Therapist

Description

The Physical Therapist (PT) provides physical therapy services to students aged 5-21 years with complex multiple disabilities or impairments that impact their ability to access the educational environment. The therapist collaborates with educators, families, and other service providers to develop and implement strategies that support student participation, mobility, and functional independence within the school setting. This is a ten-month position with potential for Extended School Year (ESY).

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conduct screenings, evaluations, and re-evaluations to assess students’ motor skills, posture, muscle tone, mobility, balance, and functional abilities.
• Interpret assessment results and contribute to the development of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
• Provide direct and consultative physical therapy services students with complex physical, medical, and developmental needs as outlined in students’ IEPs in an integrated treatment model.
• Collaborate with classroom teachers, special educators, related service providers, and other school personnel to support integrated therapy services into the school day.
• Educate staff and families on student mobility, positioning, and adaptive equipment needs.
• Monitor and document student progress; maintain accurate and timely reports and participate in IEP meetings in compliance with district, state, and federal requirements.
• Recommend and assist with the acquisition, education, and use of adaptive equipment or mobility aids and the maintenance of the equipment.
• Support safe access to transportation, classrooms, playgrounds, and other school facilities.
• Participate in IEP meetings, staff meetings, and professional development as required.
• Advocate for accessibility, environmental modifications, and accommodations necessary for student safety and success.
• Ensure all practices comply with applicable laws, regulations, and ethical standards.
• Maintain knowledge and skills by attending continuing education and trainings. Share best practices with the team.
• Facilitate the transition of student specific equipment between classroom when a student changes classrooms to ensure a seamless student transition.
• Supervise and collaborate with the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA), providing appropriate direction, delegation, and oversight of assigned therapy tasks.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education/Experience/Skills Requirements

• Current license to practice Physical Therapy in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
• Master’s or doctorate degree in Physical Therapy from an accredited program.
• Knowledge of approved principles, state regulations, professional ethics, and evidence-based therapy practices used in the field of physical therapy with pediatric or school-based experience.
• Two (2) years’ experience working with individuals living with multiple disabilities, including a strong understanding of the safety and communication support required for individuals with physical disabilities.  Experience in a school setting or with students with diverse physical and developmental needs preferred.
• Ability to lift, position, and assist students with physical disabilities as needed.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and documentation skills.
• Knowledge of a variety of assessment tools used to evaluate students with complex physical and cognitive needs.
• Knowledge of all state certifications and required continuing education. 
• Knowledge of a variety of physical therapy techniques and equipment.
• Flexibility and creativity in adapting interventions for the educational environment.
• Prior experience with medically fragile students or those with significant orthopedic, neuromotor, or genetic conditions preferred.
• Demonstrated knowledge of IDEA, IEP process, and school documentation standards preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced environment and effectively prioritize tasks.
• Demonstrated strong attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Demonstrated strong time management and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated excellent judgment with the ability to independently solve problem and make decisions with little or no need for direct supervision.
• Demonstrated ability to anticipate changes and/or identify issues and take appropriate and effective actions.
• Excellent customer interaction, collaboration, and written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated intermediate experience with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, Outlook, SharePoint, and PowerPoint.
• Experience using electronic management/electronic records systems preferred.
• Must be able to perform CPR, First Aid, and crisis intervention using agency-trained protocols.
• Must possess a current, valid driver's license in the state of residence, have a minimum of three (3) years of driving experience within the United States, and have an acceptable driving record, which will be assessed through a review of the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) record. 

Qualifications