District Physical Therapist

Job Summary The Physical Therapist provides comprehensive physical therapy services to students with disabilities and other students who require physical therapy support in order to access and participate in the educational environment. The Physical Therapist evaluates students, develops and implements individualized treatment plans, provides direct and consultative services, collaborates with educational staff and families, and supports students in developing functional mobility, strength, coordination, balance, motor skills, and independence within the school setting. The Physical Therapist works as a member of a multidisciplinary educational team and contributes to the development, implementation, and monitoring of students' Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), consistent with applicable federal and state special education requirements. Supervisory Responsibilities None Essential Functions and Responsibilities •Conduct comprehensive physical therapy evaluations and assessments of students referred for services. •Determine students' physical therapy needs and eligibility for school-based services in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and district procedures. •Develop and implement appropriate physical therapy goals, interventions, and treatment plans. •Provide direct physical therapy services to students individually or in small groups, as appropriate. •Provide consultation and collaborative services to teachers, paraprofessionals, related service providers, administrators, nurses, and other school personnel. •Incorporate therapeutic strategies into students' daily educational routines and classroom activities. •Participate in the development, review, and revision of students' IEPs and other educational plans. •Provide appropriate documentation of evaluations, treatment sessions, progress, and student outcomes. •Monitor student progress and modify interventions based on assessment results and educational needs. •Collaborate with parents and guardians regarding student progress, needs, treatment strategies, and recommendations. •Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings, parent conferences, eligibility meetings, and other meetings related to student services. •Recommend and assist with the selection, use, and maintenance of adaptive equipment, positioning systems, mobility devices, and other assistive technology as appropriate. •Assess students' functional mobility and accessibility within school facilities. •Make recommendations regarding classroom positioning, seating, transfers, mobility, and environmental modifications. •Provide instruction to school personnel regarding appropriate physical therapy techniques, positioning, transfers, mobility assistance, and safety procedures. •Assist in developing emergency and safety procedures for students with significant physical or mobility needs. •Maintain appropriate communication with school nurses and other healthcare personnel regarding student needs. •Ensure that services are delivered in accordance with students' IEPs and applicable district procedures. •Maintain accurate, confidential, and timely student records and service documentation. •Complete required Medicaid documentation and billing-related records, when applicable. •Maintain confidentiality of student information in accordance with FERPA and other applicable laws and regulations. •Participate in professional development activities and maintain current knowledge of evidence-based practices in pediatric and school-based physical therapy. •Follow district policies, procedures, health and safety requirements, and applicable federal and state laws. •Perform other duties as assigned by the Superintendent, Director of Special Education, building administrator, or designee. Required Knowledge/Skills/Abilities Knowledge of: •Principles, practices, and techniques of physical therapy. •Pediatric physical therapy and school-based therapy practices. •Child development and developmental disabilities. •Gross motor development, mobility, balance, strength, coordination, and functional movement. •Special education laws, regulations, and procedures. •Individualized Education Programs and multidisciplinary team processes. •Assistive technology and adaptive equipment used by students with disabilities. •Proper body mechanics, transfers, positioning, and mobility techniques. •School health and safety practices. •Documentation requirements and professional standards applicable to school-based physical therapy. Ability to: •Evaluate student needs and develop appropriate therapeutic interventions. •Provide effective physical therapy services in classrooms, therapy spaces, playgrounds, and other school environments. •Work effectively with students of varying ages, abilities, and physical needs. •Establish positive relationships with students, families, teachers, administrators, and other professionals. •Communicate clearly and professionally, both orally and in writing. •Work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary educational team. •Maintain accurate and timely records and documentation. •Exercise sound professional judgment. •Safely assist students with transfers, positioning, mobility, and use of adaptive equipment. •Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive student information appropriately. •Organize and prioritize responsibilities while meeting required service schedules and deadlines. •Adapt therapeutic approaches to meet individual student needs. •Use technology and electronic systems for documentation and communication. •Demonstrate patience, flexibility, professionalism, and a commitment to student success. Education and Experience •Master's degree in Physical Therapy or Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) from an accredited institution. •Current license or eligibility for licensure as a Physical Therapist in the State of Rhode Island. •Experience working with children or adolescents preferred. •Experience working in a school or educational setting preferred. •Knowledge of federal and state special education requirements preferred. •Current CPR/AED certification, if required by the district. •Successful completion of all required background checks and employment screening. •Current Rhode Island Physical Therapist license in good standing, or eligibility to obtain and maintain such license. •Any additional certification required by the Rhode Island Department of Education or other applicable regulatory agency. Physical Requirements •Move throughout school buildings and educational environments. •Demonstrate and perform therapeutic exercises and physical activities. •Assist students with transfers, positioning, mobility, and use of adaptive equipment. •Occasionally lift or assist with lifting students and equipment as required. •Bend, stoop, kneel, reach, push, pull, and sit or stand for extended periods. •Safely operate or assist students with mobility and adaptive equipment. •Maintain appropriate physical stamina to perform the essential functions of the position. Other Duties The activities, duties or responsibilities contained in this job description is not a comprehensive listing that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.