PHYSICAL THERAPIST

(Itinerant Position)

DEFINITION

Receives general supervision from the Director of Special Education, the Administrator, Special Education and/or an assigned site administrator; will participate as a member of the educational team to assess student performance in the areas of disability; develop assessment reports; identify student abilities within educational , developmental or functional parameters; develop long range training goals and short term objectives for consideration of an IEP team; develop individual physical therapy intervention plans; maintain appropriate documentation and reports and provide staff development training to education personnel. Complete other related work as required.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES: (Incumbents may perform any combination of the essential functions shown below (E).  This position description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, knowledge, or abilities associated with this classification but is intended to accurately reflect the principle job elements.)

Provide educationally related physical therapy assessment in areas of suspected disability.  E

Complete assessment reports according to specified guidelines and develop long range training goals with short objectives based on assessment findings.  E

Develop intervention plans that support IEP goals and implement in appropriate environments. E

Consult with and train classroom personnel to implement intervention plans in student’s school environments. E

Monitor student progress, review on annual basis, reassess on triennial basis.  E

Prepare reports and maintain records as required.  E

Develop and implement training opportunities for classroom staff and parents on the role of physical therapy as an educational service (i.e. normal sensory motor development).  E

Participate as a member of the Assistive Technology Team.  E

Maintain regular and prompt attendance in the workplace.   E

Perform related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

• Principals and methods of physical therapeutic techniques;
• Theory of physical and mental rehabilitation underlying the practices of physical therapy;
• Objective of physical therapy treatment and services;
• Skeletal anatomy, neuromuscular function and dysfunction; kinesiology and physical therapy modalities;

Physical Therapist, Page 2.

Knowledge of:  (continued)

• Principles of consultation.

Ability to:

• Identify and analyze areas of developmental and sensory motor dysfunction;
• Develop and implement appropriate treatment plans;
• Consult with classroom staff regarding motor, sensory, perceptual and self care programs;
• Communicate effectively verbally and in writing with Students, staff, parents and other agencies regarding technical information;
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others.

Education and Experience:

Bachelor’s, Master’s or Doctorate Degree in Physical Therapy from an accredited institution.  Physical Therapy License, Valid California driver’s license, first aid and CPR certification.  Advanced training in sensory integration is desirable.

Recent full time experience providing physical therapy services to children with severe disabilities, including pediatric sensory motor training and experience in the construction and use of assistive devices, special toys and equipment, etc.

WORKING CONDITIONS

ENVIRONMENT:

Employees in this position will be required to work at various locations and come in direct contact with students, District personnel, outside agency representatives and the public.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:   

Employees in this position must possess/have the ability to:

• Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate physical therapy equipment;
• See, hear and speak with/without assistive devices sufficient to communicate effectively with others;
• Lift and move students as assigned by the position;
• Frequent bend at the waist, kneel or crouch to assist students;
• Reach overhead, above the shoulders and horizontally to retrieve supplies;
• Sit or stand for extended periods of time;
• See to read a variety of materials and screen student health conditions;
• Lift up to 40 lbs. to table height with assistance;
• Occasionally lift up to 150 lbs. to table height with assistance;
• Occasionally lift up to 50 lbs. to table height;
• Walk for extended distances.