Description
Position Title: Physical Therapist
Location: Southampton County Public Schools Academy
Reports To: Principal
Job Summary:
The Physical Therapist is responsible for providing specialized services to support the physical development and mobility of students. This role involves assessing students' physical needs, developing individualized therapy plans, and collaborating with educators, parents, and other professionals to enhance students' abilities to participate in school activities and achieve their educational goals.
Key Responsibilities:
Assessment and Evaluation:
- Conduct comprehensive assessments to identify students' physical therapy needs.
- Use standardized tests, observational methods, and other assessment tools to evaluate students' motor skills, posture, balance, and mobility.
- Develop detailed assessment reports and provide recommendations for interventions and supports.
Intervention and Treatment:
- Develop and implement individualized therapy plans based on students' needs and assessment results.
- Provide direct therapy services to students, both individually and in groups, to improve motor skills, strength, coordination, and functional mobility.
- Utilize evidence-based practices and a variety of therapeutic techniques to support students' physical development.
Collaboration and Consultation:
- Work closely with teachers, administrators, and other school staff to support students' physical therapy needs.
- Provide guidance and training to educators on strategies to support students' physical development and mobility in the classroom.
- Communicate regularly with parents about their child's progress and provide strategies for supporting development at home.
IEP Development and Implementation:
- Participate in IEP meetings and contribute to the development of individualized education plans for students with physical therapy needs.
- Monitor students' progress and adjust IEP goals and interventions as necessary.
- Collaborate with teachers and other specialists to support the integration of physical therapy goals into the classroom setting.
Program Development:
- Develop and implement school-wide programs and initiatives to promote physical development and mobility.
- Conduct workshops and training sessions for teachers, staff, and parents on topics related to physical therapy.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of physical therapy programs and make recommendations for improvement.
Professional Development:
- Stay current with the latest research and best practices in physical therapy.
- Attend workshops, conferences, and other professional development activities related to physical therapy.
- Provide professional development opportunities for teachers and staff to enhance their ability to support students' physical therapy needs.
Qualifications:
- Master’s degree or Doctorate in Physical Therapy from an accredited program.
- Valid state certification or licensure as a Physical Therapist.
- Previous experience in physical therapy, particularly in a school setting, preferred.
- Strong knowledge of physical therapy assessment and intervention techniques.
- Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues, students, and parents.
- Proficiency in the use of technology for assessment, record-keeping, and communication.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to sit, stand, and move freely for extended periods.
- Capacity to lift and move therapeutic equipment and supplies as necessary.
- Ability to supervise and interact with students in a variety of settings.
Work Environment:
- Work is performed in a school setting and may require traveling between classrooms and schools.
- Occasional evening and weekend work may be required for school events and meetings.
Note: The job description listed above is not exhaustive and may include additional responsibilities not listed here.
Southampton County Public Schools is an equal opportunity employer.