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 SUMMARYThe 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 FUNCTIONSThe 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 DEMANDSWhile 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.
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