Title:   Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)

Position Purpose

Under the general supervision of the Assistant Director of Special Education, to support the education of students with disabilities or physical impairments in their least restrictive environment by implementing physical therapy programming as designed by the Physical Therapist, and aid in screening, evaluation and intervention services.

Essential Functions

• Provide Physical Therapy services for students assigned to them by the Physical Therapist
• Document services consistent with cooperative practices and professional documentation requirements

Additional Duties

• Performs other related tasks as assigned by administrators.

Note:         The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities.  It is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility.

Equipment

• Uses standard office equipment such as personal computers, printer, copy and fax machines, and telephone.

Travel Requirements

• Travels to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of physical therapy principles, theory, methods and evidence based practice.
• Knowledge of effective practice, clinical decision-making, outcomes based intervention and their proper application in the educational environment.
• Knowledge of areas of practice specific to pediatrics, including child development and specific diagnoses.
• Knowledge of differentiated instruction based upon student learning styles.
• Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis and the formulation of action plans.
• Knowledge of Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), Section 504, and other federal and state laws and regulations regarding education and students and physical therapy practice in schools.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Skill in selecting and providing a wide range of intervention strategies and monitoring their effectiveness.
• Effective computer skills as needed for work (e.g., ability to effective use Microsoft Office suite).
• Ability to organize and coordinate work.
• Ability to engage in self-evaluation with regard to performance and professional growth.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.

Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazards

• Works in standard office and school building environments. Includes home visits when necessary.

Qualifications Profile

Certification/License:

• State Certification to practice as evidenced by current state licensure as a Physical Therapy Assistant.
• Motor Vehicle Operator's License or ability to provide own transportation.

Education:

• Degree from an accredited college or university in related field.
• Graduation from an accredited program of physical therapy or physical therapy assistants.

Experience:

• Successful prior experience working as a Physical Therapist Assistant, preferably in an educational or other pediatric practice setting.

FLSA Status:             Exempt