Diamond R-IV School District 

JOB DESCRIPTION
POSITION: Physical Therapist
REPORTS TO: Director of Special Education
FAIR LABOR STANDARD ACT: Exempt
POSITION CLASSIFICATION: Professional
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: 9 months

QUALIFICATIONS

• Completion of an accredited training program for Physical Therapy

• Possess a current Missouri license to practice Physical Therapy (PT – Licensed Physical Therapist)

• Knowledge of therapeutic interventions, mobility training, positioning, and motor development strategies

• CPR and First Aid certification

• Strong collaboration and interpersonal skills

• Excellent written and oral communication skills

JOB SUMMARY

The Physical Therapist will address the functional needs of students as they relate to movement, balance, coordination, postural control, mobility, and physical independence. These services are designed to improve, restore, or maintain the student’s ability to access their educational environment in a safe and efficient manner from ages birth to 21.

REQUIRED EXPECTATIONS

• Be punctual and have consistent and regular attendance

• Ensure the safety and well-being of each child by responding to their physical, social, emotional, and educational needs

• Support the mission of the Diamond R-IV School District

• Uphold the value of education and the rights of all learners

• Comply with the privacy rights of students and safeguard confidential/sensitive information

• Utilize developmentally appropriate and evidence-based practices at all times

• Be warm and encouraging with students

• Demonstrate professionalism and excellent customer service in all interactions

• Work collaboratively to meet the goals of the department and District

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

The duties of the Physical Therapist include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Establish and maintain a student referral and evaluation process

• Identify, screen, evaluate, and reevaluate students using appropriate assessment tools to determine physical therapy needs

• Interpret and document evaluation findings; contribute to the development of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)

• Design and implement physical therapy interventions to support student access to educational activities and environments

• Collaborate with educational staff and parents to integrate physical therapy goals within classroom routines and home environments

• Instruct students, families, and educational personnel in the safe use and care of assistive devices and mobility aids

• Recommend and assist in acquiring adaptive equipment and environmental modifications to enhance physical access

• Provide training to staff and families related to motor development, safety, body mechanics, positioning, and transfer techniques

• Discontinue services when appropriate, following established dismissal criteria

• Coordinate care and planning with medical professionals, community providers, and school-based teams

• Maintain accurate, confidential documentation of student progress, services, and communications

• Participate in IEP meetings, staffings, and other relevant committees

• Evaluate and revise physical therapy programs based on student progress and data

• Determine caseload priorities, scheduling, and appropriate levels of intervention

• Provide in-service training and consultation to staff and families as needed

• Monitor and supervise support personnel (e.g., Physical Therapy Assistant)

• Complete Medicaid documentation and billing as required

• Support school transition planning for students entering or re-entering the school environment

• Model positive behaviors, communication skills, and professionalism

• Adhere to safety protocols and District policies

• Perform other duties as assigned

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to:

• Stand, walk, sit, and talk/hear

• Frequently bend, stoop, kneel, reach, or crouch

• Occasionally push, pull, or lift up to 50 lbs

• Use vision to see near and far, including depth perception

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.