PHYSICAL THERAPIST- DIVISION OF SPECIAL PROGRAMS

The licensed physical therapist practicing in the educational setting provides school-based physical therapy to support student mobility, safety, physical access, and participation in the educational environment. The therapist collaborates with families and school staff to assess needs, develop goals and supports, and deliver services in accordance with state and federal guidelines under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:

Schedule 804; Range 122; nine and one-fourth (9.25) month contract (190 days), with benefits. FLSA: Exempt

NOTE: Salary placement within the range is determined by the district based on education and experience.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral degree in Physical Therapy from an accredited program.
2. Current Arkansas Physical Therapist licensure by the Arkansas State Medical Board of Physical Therapy.
3. Experience working for a school system or comparable setting working with children or youth is desirable.
4. Evidence of strong interpersonal and communication skills in dealing with students, staff, administrators, and parents is necessary.
5. The therapist will be responsible for securing and maintaining active licensure, including completing all necessary continuing education.

Such alternatives and additions to the above qualifications may be deemed appropriate by the Superintendent. Such alternatives to the above qualifications as the Board may require.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

The following statements of duties and responsibilities are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. These statements are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities required of all personnel within this position.

Evaluation and Assessment

• Assess functional gross motor skills through screenings, evaluations, observations, interviews, standardized assessments, and related data collection methods to identify educationally relevant physical therapy needs.
• Prepare written evaluation reports, interpret results, and present findings to educational teams in accordance with state and federal guidelines.

Educational Planning, Intervention, and Goals

• Participate in educational team meetings as a collaborative team member to share relevant information, discuss student needs, and support educational planning.
• Contribute to the development of educationally relevant goals, supports, or services aligned with student needs.
• Implement direct physical therapy services and/or consultative supports as outlined in the student’s educational plan.
• Provide interventions that support functional mobility, motor skill development, safe movement within school environments, and participation in school routines.
• Complete required documentation and written input for educational planning processes.
• Collaborate with teams regarding accommodations, modifications, and supports that promote student access and participation.

Consultation and Collaboration

• Collaborate with families and school staff to address student needs related to mobility, safety, physical access, and participation in school activities.
• Provide consultation, assistance, and training related to positioning, environmental modifications, and the use of adaptive or mobility equipment.
• Participate in district-sponsored meetings and required professional development activities.

Documentation and Reporting

• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of all physical therapy services, evaluations, progress, and required records in accordance with district procedures and state and federal requirements.
• Complete and upload all required service notes, reports, and documentation to district-approved systems within established timelines.
• Ensure documentation supports IEP, 504, and other educational requirements.

Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills and/or abilities. To perform this job successfully, the incumbent will possess the abilities or aptitudes to perform each duty successfully. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

WORKING CONDITIONS & ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Maintain reliable attendance and be physically present during contracted hours.
• Travel between school sites as assigned (may include students’ homes for homebound services).
• Meet the physical demands of school environments, including walking, navigating stairs, and supporting student mobility.
• Must be able to lift 35 lbs independently and up to 50 lbs with assistance.
• Supervise a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) as assigned.
• Participate in required professional development.
• Maintain all professional licensure requirements throughout employment.
• Perform other duties as assigned.