Physical Therapist for ESY

Job Title:

Extended School Year Physical Therapist 

Job Summary:

The Extended School Year Physical Therapist develops and provides specialized instruction to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities; Evaluates and assesses student progress against instructional objectives; follows IDEA-mandated due process procedures and functions as Case Manager to assigned IEP students.

Qualifications:

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Degree: You must earn a DPT degree from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).

Evaluation:

The performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with the provisions of the Board’s policy on the Evaluation of Certified.

Reports to:

Summer School Principal and Director of Special Services 

Terms of Employment:

This is a part-time, hourly position for four weeks, from June 2nd to June 26th, with an additional four days of planning and professional development to be determined.

• Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday

• Compensation: $45 per hour

• This position does not include benefits

FLSA Status:

Exempt

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Provide Direct Therapy Services: Deliver physical therapy services to students with IEPs (Individualized Education Programs) during the extended school year, focusing on mobility, strength, and functional skills.
2. Develop and Implement Therapy Plans: Create individualized therapy plans based on each student’s needs, goals, and current level of functioning, ensuring alignment with their IEP objectives.
   
3. Collaborate with Teachers and Staff: Work closely with classroom teachers, special education staff, and other related service providers to ensure a cohesive approach to student support.
4. Monitor and Assess Progress: Continuously assess students’ physical progress and adjust therapy goals and interventions accordingly.
5. Provide Parent Education: Offer guidance and resources to parents, helping them understand therapy techniques and exercises that can be practiced at home to support student progress.
6. Assist in Adaptive Equipment Usage: Evaluate and provide training on the use of adaptive equipment or mobility devices, ensuring students are utilizing them correctly for maximum benefit.
7. Conduct Functional Assessments: Perform assessments to evaluate students' functional movement and gross motor skills, tracking improvements and identifying areas that need further intervention.
8. Ensure Safe Physical Environments: Collaborate with school staff to create a safe environment for therapy sessions, including making necessary modifications for students with mobility challenges.
9. Document Therapy Services and Progress: Maintain accurate records of therapy sessions, including student progress, adjustments to therapy plans, and any communication with other professionals or parents.
   Participate in IEP Meetings: Attend and contribute to IEP meetings for students, providing input on physical therapy goals, progress, and recommendations for future services.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities  

• Must demonstrate a record of effectiveness in their teaching
• Must have excellent planning and organization skills
• Must have the ability to work collaboratively with others
• Must have strong verbal communication skills
• Must model a desire and willingness to learn, constantly seeking ways to improve continually

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The role of a Physical Therapist (PT) requires physical stamina and mobility to support students across various educational settings effectively. PTs must be able to sit, stand, and move throughout classrooms, therapy rooms, and other learning environments for extended periods. The position involves frequent use of gross motor skills to assist students with mobility, balance, and functional movements. PTs may need to bend, kneel, or provide light physical support while working with students, particularly those with physical disabilities. The role also demands the ability to manage and transport therapy materials, such as adaptive equipment, mobility aids, and documentation tools. PTs must respond quickly to students’ needs, ensuring a safe and supportive therapy environment. Adaptability to various classroom and school settings, including working with students in both small groups and one-on-one sessions, is essential.

ADA:

The employer will make reasonable accommodations in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. This job description will be reviewed periodically as duties and responsibilities change with business necessity. Essential and marginal job functions are subject to modification.

This job description is intended to describe minimum qualifications, duties, and responsibilities performed by employees assigned to this position and is not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities.  The District reserves the right to amend and change the position responsibilities to meet District needs as necessary.