2026-2027 SY - Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)

Job Title: Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)

Classification: Ancillary Support

Department: Educational Development Center (SSC)

Work Hours: 7.5 hours/day

Contract Length: 203 Days

Salary Schedule: Level I Teacher Salary Schedule - $63,814 - $63,860

Reports To: Director of Special Education

Location: Gallup-McKinley County Schools

Position Summary

The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) works under the direction and supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist to provide support services to students with disabilities in educational settings. The PTA assists in implementing individualized physical therapy interventions to help students access and benefit from their special education programs.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Implement physical therapy activities as directed by the supervising Physical Therapist.
• Assist in carrying out student-specific interventions that support physical access to the school environment.
• Support the use and training of specialized adaptive equipment and mobility devices.
• Collect and document data on student progress toward IEP goals.
• Maintain accurate logs and reports as required for documentation, IEPs, and Medicaid billing.
• Assist the Physical Therapist during evaluations and contribute to the development of therapy goals.
• Attend IEP meetings and staffing as requested.
• Collaborate with teachers, parents, and other staff to support student needs.
• Provide follow-up support and consultation to school staff and families as appropriate.
• Respect student confidentiality and maintain professionalism at all times.
• Participate in professional development and district training activities.
• Support safe practices and ensure student well-being during therapy sessions.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Physical Therapist or Director.
  
  

Minimum Qualifications

• Associate's Degree from an accredited Physical Therapist Assistant program.
• Current licensure as a Physical Therapist Assistant by the New Mexico Physical Therapy Board, or willingness to obtain licensure by October 1, 2025.
• Experience working with children or in a school-based setting is preferred.
  
  

Physical Requirements

Must be able to:

• Sit, stand, walk, lift (up to 50 lbs), kneel, squat, push, pull, and assist students with mobility.
• Navigate and assist in a variety of school settings including classrooms, hallways, playgrounds, and therapy rooms.
  
  

Technology & Equipment

• Must be able to operate or be willing to learn to operate mobility equipment, therapy tools, and basic educational technology (e.g., laptop, data entry systems).
  
  

Work Environment

• Requires flexibility and the ability to work in various school environments with differing levels of noise, temperature, and interruptions.
• Must be self-directed, professional, and reliable.
• Occasional after-hours responsibilities may be required.
• On-Site attendance is mandatory for this position.
  
  

Terms of Employment: Salary and work calendar established yearly by the district.

All GMCS schools are eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF).

GMCS employees: Transfer Request Form needs to be signed by supervisor and uploaded to your application.