Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA)

Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) 

JOB DESCRIPTION: Assists the physical therapist and school staff in meeting students’ IEP gross motor and physical activity goals. Will develop in each student an understanding of the relationship of normal movement, exercise, and school function while motivating each student to cultivate their potential in gross motor function, and physical fitness. Will foster the development of strength, skill, agility, and coordination to improve each student’s ability to access and participate in their education.

QUALIFICATIONS: Must be a graduate of an accredited program in physical therapy, be currently registered/licensed in Arizona, and maintain an active license in good standing throughout employment. Must have an Arizona Fingerprint Clearance Card. Must possess and maintain a valid Arizona driver’s license. 

RESPONSIBILITIES: The following are intended to describe the core work functions of this classification. While the level and broad nature of responsibilities may not change, specific work tasks will vary over time depending on the District’s needs. Demonstrate good body mechanics at all times and be able to sit, stand, bend, lift, push, pull, stoop, walk, reach, and move intermittently during working hours. Able to exert up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects.  Ability to lift up to 50 pounds. Knowledgeable of practices and procedures as well as the laws, regulations, and guidelines governing functions in the post-acute care facility.

• Follows through on the designated educationally relevant therapy program through a direct, integrative, or consultative type of service delivery.
• Assists Physical Therapist in obtaining student data 
• Assesses the gross motor, physical activity, and assistive technology needs of students during each therapy session.
• Educates school staff and parents to assist the student in meeting his or her IEP goals.
• Cleans, maintains, and organizes equipment necessary to meet the indicated IEP goals.
• Keeps accurate documentation including attendance records, daily notes, quarterly progress reports, and monthly Medicaid billing reports with the co-signature of a licensed physical therapist. 
• Coordinates educationally relevant physical therapy programming with the multidisciplinary staff and outside services as necessary.
• Demonstrates competence in understanding and caring for special needs students based on their age, grade, functional, cognitive, and physical level of development to promote student’s safety and maximum independence in the school environment.
• Demonstrates the willingness to travel between schools.
• Assists in the setting up and break down of therapy rooms at the beginning and end of the school year.
• May attend annual IEP meetings of students on their caseload, under the direct supervision of PT. 
• Maintains a high level of ethical behavior, confidentiality, and rapport with all stakeholders.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

SALARY: Exempt Nine-month position, classified salary schedule, Level 39, and employee benefits in accordance with Board policies. 

_{EVALUATION: Performance to be evaluated in accordance with Board policy on the evaluation of professional personnel.}

Governing Board Approval: February 15, 2024

Salary : $30 - $43