Primary Purpose:
Plan and provide direct physical therapy and consultation to students with physical disabilities. Provide
therapeutic intervention to eliminate or reduce problems or impairments that interfere with students’ ability to
derive full benefit from the educational program.
Provide adapted physical education services to students with intellectual disabilities, autism, traumatic
brain injury, orthopedic impairments, or other disabling condition.
Qualifications:
Education/Certification:
Master’s degree in physical therapy or related program
Valid Texas license as a physical therapist granted by the Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners
Special Knowledge/Skills:
Knowledge of medical information and indications for physical therapy treatment
Skill in use of tests and measurements for assessing physical function
Ability to administer manual exercises and physical therapy treatments
Ability to instruct students and manage their behavior
Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
Experience:
One year experience as a physical therapist
Experience with working with students with various physical disabilities
Major Responsibilities and Duties:
Therapy/Service to students
- Plan and provide direct and consultative services consistent with physical therapy goals contained in students’ Individual Education Plans (IEP). Evaluate student progress and make recommendations regarding physical therapy services.
- Plan and provide individual or small groups of students with adapted physical education instruction that meets desired physical needs and goals contained in students’ IEP. Evaluate student progress and make recommendations regarding adapted pe.
Consultation
- Consult with district and outside personnel including referring healthcare provider, private therapists, and other medical staff regarding the physical and medical needs of students. Assist in the selection of equipment and adaptive materials.
- Present staff development in assigned schools as requested. Conduct one-on-one consultation with teachers, aides, parents, and others to apprise them of individual student needs and requirements related to the student’s physical therapy.
Student Management
- Create a positive environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the maturity level, interests, and physical and cognitive needs of the student.
- Establish control and administer discipline according to the Student Code of Conduct and student handbook.
Program Management
- Participate in the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee to assist with interpretations of assessment data, appropriate placement, and goal setting for students with physical disabilities according to district procedures. Comply with assessment and reporting legal timelines.
- Develop and coordinate a continuing evaluation of the physical therapy and adapted pe program and make changes based on the findings.
- Coordinate the district wide Special Olympics program.
Administration
- Compile, maintain, and file all reports, records, and other required documents.
- Comply with policies established by federal and state law, State Board of Education rule, and local board policy. Comply with all district and assigned campus routines and regulations.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:
Tools/Equipment Used: Physical therapy equipment; special need adaptive equipment; standard office equipment including computer and peripherals
Posture: Frequent standing, sitting, kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting
Motion: Frequent walking, grasping/squeezing, wrist flexion/extension
Lifting: Regular heavy lifting (45 pounds or more) and positioning of students with physical disabilities; controlling behavior through physical restraint; assisting non-ambulatory students
Environment: Exposure to biological hazards, bacteria, and communicable diseases; may require districtwide travel
Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under pressure
This document describes the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.
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