Physical Therapist

Position Purpose

Under the general supervision of the Lead Physical Therapist, support the education of students with disabilities or physical impairments in their least restrictive environment by developing, implementing and coordinating a physical therapy program, and providing screening, evaluation, and intervention services.

Physical Therapist

• Develop, implement, and coordinate the physical therapy program within the school district, including philosophy, vision, procedures, and goals.
• Evaluate the physical therapy needs of students using appropriate tests, professional observations, and supplementary information.
• Interpret assessment findings and convey information to parents and school staff.
• Participate in the development of Individualized Education Programs.
• Develop and implement intervention strategies.
• Create physical management and environmental modification plans for daily classroom activities and train staff on safe implementation.
• Plan transition from school to community, preparing students to function independently from therapy services when targeted outcomes are achieved.
• Evaluate and report on student progress.
• Consult with school staff, parents, administrators, physicians, community and other professionals to gather and communicate information to meet students' physical therapy needs.
• Serve as a resource to parents, school staff, and administration on disabling conditions and their effects on education.
• Collaborate with community therapists and other healthcare providers for effective coordination of physical therapy services.
• Assess the need for assistive technology and equipment and make recommendations for their use at school to help students function independently.
• Assist with planning safe transportation and emergency evacuation of students with disabilities or physical impairments.
• Provide consultation regarding the emergency evacuation of students with disability.
• Participate in improving school accessibility and planning environmental modifications.
• Document physical therapy services and maintain records in accordance with school district policies, state and federal laws and regulations.
• Continuously acquire professional knowledge by attending seminars, workshops, professional meetings, or conducting research, and maintaining professional relationships.

• Perform other related tasks as assigned by the Lead Physical Therapist and other administrators as designated by the Superintendent.

• Use standard office equipment such as a personal computer, printer, copier, fax machine, and telephone.

• Travel to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.

• Knowledge of physical therapy principles, theory, methods, and evidence-based practice.
• Knowledge of effective practice, clinical decision-making, outcome-based intervention, and their application in the educational environment.
• Knowledge of pediatric practice areas, child development, and specific diagnoses.
• Knowledge of differentiated instruction based on student learning styles.
• Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis, and formulation of action plans.
• Knowledge of FERPA, Section 504, and other federal and state laws and regulations regarding education and physical therapy practice in schools.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Skill in selecting and delivering a wide range of intervention strategies and monitoring effectiveness.
• Effective computer skills, including Microsoft Office suite.
• Ability to organize and coordinate work.
• Ability to engage in self-evaluation regarding performance and professional growth.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.

• Works in standard office and school building environments.

• State certification to practice, evidenced by current state licensure as a Physical Therapist.
• Motor Vehicle Operator's License or ability to provide own transportation.

• Master's or Doctorate from an accredited college or university in a related field.
• Graduation from an accredited program of physical therapy.

• Successful prior experience working as a Physical Therapist, preferably in an educational or other pediatric practice setting.

Marian Perillo - Lead Physical Therapist
marian.perillo
2.nc.us

Exempt

• Entry level

• Full-time

• Health Care Provider

• Education