Physical Therapy Assistant

Diamond R-IV School District 

TITLE: Physical Therapy Assistant
REPORTS TO: Physical Therapist
FAIR LABOR STANDARD ACT: Non-Exempt
POSITION CLASSIFICATION: Support
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: 9 months

QUALIFICATIONS

• Completion of an accredited Physical Therapist Assistant program
  

• Associate degree as a Physical Therapist Assistant
  

• Current state licensure or certification as a Physical Therapist Assistant
  

• Pass Physical Capabilities Test
  

• CPR and First Aid certification
  

• Demonstrated knowledge of therapeutic techniques and intervention strategies
  

• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills
  

• Ability to collaborate effectively with students, staff, and families
  
  

JOB SUMMARY

The Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) will work under the direct supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist (PT) to support the physical development and functional mobility of students. The PTA will assist in the implementation of individualized therapy plans, monitor student progress, and collaborate with school personnel to help students access their educational environment.

REQUIRED EXPECTATIONS

• Be punctual and maintain consistent, regular attendance
  

• Promote the safety, well-being, and development of students
  

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

• Maintain confidentiality and safeguard student records
  

• Use best practices and developmentally appropriate methods in all interventions
  

• Maintain a nurturing and supportive demeanor
  

• Provide professional, courteous, and effective customer service
  

• Collaborate with team members to meet district and departmental goals
  
  

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

The duties of the Physical Therapy Assistant will include, but are not limited to:

• Provide physical therapy services to students as prescribed by the supervising PT
  

• Implement treatment interventions according to student IEP goals under the PT's direction
  

• Monitor and document student progress; provide feedback to PT for program adjustments
  

• Assist in assessing students’ gross motor skills, mobility, strength, and functional abilities
  

• Collaborate with PT, teachers, and other school personnel to support students in accessing curriculum
  

• Assist with the development and use of adaptive equipment and assistive technology
  

• Maintain accurate and confidential documentation of student services
  

• Prepare materials and set up equipment for therapy sessions
  

• Maintain therapy spaces in a safe and organized manner
  

• Participate in IEP meetings and student consultations, as appropriate
  

• Train paraprofessionals and staff on safe handling and positioning techniques
  

• Travel between schools as needed to provide services
  

• Complete Medicaid billing documentation in a timely manner
  

• Demonstrate professionalism in speech, dress, and conduct
  

• Maintain effective communication with families and school staff
  

• Follow all district policies, procedures, and safety guidelines
  

• All other duties as assigned
  
  

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

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

• Stand, walk, sit, talk, and hear
  

• Occasionally reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl
  

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

• Have visual acuity for close, distance, and depth perception
  
  

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