Physical Therapist

Chicago Public Schools (CPS) is a district on the rise, serving over 325,000 students in 500 schools and employing over 45,000 people, most of them teachers. CPS has set ambitious goals to ensure that every student, in every school and every neighborhood, has access to a world-class learning experience that prepares each for success in college, career, and civic life. Aligned with our transformed philosophy, we are steadfastly focused on ensuring that the District provides resources equitably to support every student, every school, and every community. Six core values guide the work we do every day for our students – student-centered, whole child, equity, academic excellence, community partnership, and continuous learning. Each role in the district supports our vision that every student deserves a rigorous, joyful, and equitable learning experience.

The Office for Students with Disabilities (OSD) works to support networks, schools, and families with all issues related to special education including instruction, interventions, and legal and compliance support. OSD provides the tools and resources to ensure that all students with disabilities receive a high-quality public education that prepares students for success. OSD supports networks, schools, and families with all issues related to special education, including instruction, interventions, and legal and compliance support.

Job Summary: 

Reporting to the RSP Manager, PT/OT, the PT’s role in education is to enable children with disabilities to benefit from special education instruction in the least restrictive environment. The school PT develops implements and coordinates a physical therapy program through evaluation and intervention services, including direct services to the child and consultative services on behalf of the child, such as support of the teacher and/or other staff members.

The Physical Therapist will be held accountable for the following responsibilities:

• PT evaluates students through skilled professional observation, therapeutic handling, record review, and parent, student, and teacher interviews.  PTs interpret assessment findings and appropriately communicate information to parents and school teams through written and oral means. 

• The PT collaborates with the school team to develop Individualized Education Programs and Section 504 Plans to address the students’ unique needs.

• Develops and implements individualized PT intervention strategies.

• Collaborates with student, school team members, parents, community agencies, administrators, and physicians regarding effective coordination of services.

• Collaborates with student, school team members, parents, community agencies, administrators, and physicians regarding transition from school to community, preparing student to function independently when outlined outcomes are achieved.

• Documents all PT services provided within a timely manner as outlined by the Office for Students with Disabilities.

• Evaluates and documents student progress in accordance with the IL PT Practice Act as well as school district, State and Federal policies.

• Addresses needs for assistive technology, equipment, transportation, accessibility, environmental accommodations, and emergency evacuation for students with disabilities as required to access their educational environment through collaboration and participation with school staff. 

• Seeks regular opportunities for professional growth. 

• Participates clinical educational opportunities for students of physical therapy.

• Adheres to professional, ethical and legal standards of practice as defined by the American Physical Therapy Association.

• Provides direct supervision of physical therapy assistants in accordance with Illinois’ Physical Therapy Practice Act