Physical Therapist

Position Overview

The Physical Therapist works with students to plan and provide physical therapy services based on evaluations, with the goal of improving or maintaining their physical well-being. All services are delivered while respecting student confidentiality and maintaining professional boundaries at all times.

• Location: Meeting Street - The Schwartz School. One Posa Pl, Dartmouth, MA 02747

• Schedule: 8 am to 3 pm

• Grades: K-12

• Caseload: Within agency guidelines, includes travel time

• HR/Clearance Requirements:

  • TB Test

  • PA State Police Clearance (Act 34)

  • FBI Fingerprint Clearance (Act 114)

  • Child Abuse Clearance (Act 151)

  • Mandated Reporter Training

Essential Job Functions

• Provide physical therapy services to students based on physician recommendations and individual student needs.

• Follow all school policies, therapy procedures, and state laws related to physical therapy and student care.

• Write clear evaluations that include the student’s physical therapy needs, goals, progress, and expected outcomes, in coordination with the physician’s plan.

• Work closely with the school team—including teachers, school nurses, parents/guardians, and other specialists—to support student success and plan for transitions or discharge when needed.

• Communicate regularly and effectively with school staff, healthcare providers, and families.

• Act as a resource for other school and clinical staff by sharing knowledge and best practices.

• Supervise support personnel such as Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs) or other aides, as appropriate.

• Complete assessments and documentation for IEP as part of student care planning and progress tracking.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from an American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)-accredited program

• Current, unrestricted state license as a Physical Therapist in the state of practice

• Current CPR certification

• Demonstrated proficiency in clinical assessments, documentation, and adherence to policies and procedures

Additional State-Specific Requirements

• Continuing education as required by state law

Preferences

• One (1) year of recent experience as a Physical Therapist

• Pediatric experience preferred

Other Skills and Abilities

• Strong attention to detail

• Effective time management

• Strong problem-solving and conflict resolution skills

• Excellent organizational and communication skills

Physical Requirements

• Ability to speak, write, read, and understand English

• Ability to travel as needed

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds

• Prolonged periods of walking, standing, bending, kneeling, reaching, and twisting

• Ability to sit and climb stairs

• Sufficient visual and hearing acuity

• Strong sense of smell and touch

• Ability to reposition patients and move equipment without assistance

• Ability to respond appropriately—both physically and mentally—to emergency situations in the home or during transport

Work Environment

• Must be able to work in a variety of environments, which may involve exposure to allergens and varying conditions

• Possible exposure to blood, bodily fluids, and infectious diseases

Other Duties

Please note: This job description is not intended to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties, or responsibilities that may be required for this role. Responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice.