Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA)

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary job functions herein described. Since every duty associated with this position may not be described herein, employees may be required to perform duties not specifically spelled out in the job description, but which may be reasonably considered to be incidental in the performing of their duties just as though they were written out in this job description.

GRPS MISSION: Our mission is to ensure that all scholars are educated, self-directed and productive members of society.

Certified Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA)

Department: Special Education

Bargaining Unit: Union of Grand Rapids Education Support Professional (UGRESP)

Wage: Determined by the collective bargaining agreement

Direct Supervisor: Special Education Supervisor

JOB SUMMARY

The Certified Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) works under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist (PT) but is also expected to work independently with scholars. The PTA will be carrying out scholar goals and instructional objectives as specified in their Individualized Educational Programs (IEP).

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Essential functions under the Americans with Disabilities Act may include any of the following duties, knowledge, and skills. This list is illustrative only and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by employees in this position. Regular on time and in person attendance is an essential function of this job. Other essential functions may include, but are not limited to the following:

• Assist in providing Physical Therapy in the following areas:
• Direct therapeutic intervention with scholars (individually or in small groups).
• Maintain accurate records regarding scholar progress.
• Modify/maintain therapy equipment and materials as appropriate.
• Modify/maintain scholar equipment as appropriate.
• Employ open communication with staff regarding scholar's therapeutic needs.
• Write clinic reports and other medical related information for assigned caseload, as directed by the supervising PT.
• Keep therapy area clean and neat.
• Attend parent/teacher conferences, team meetings, Individual Education Program (IEP) team meetings, staff meetings, and other appropriate, requested or assigned meetings.
• Follow District policies, procedures, and practices.
• Interact with co-workers, administration, scholars, parents, and the community in positive, supportive, professional, and cooperative manner.
• Consistently demonstrate dependable attendance and punctuality.
• Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required Education and Experience:

• Must have completed at least one of the following:

• At least two years of study at an institution of higher education (60 Credits)

• Obtained an associate's or higher degree; or

• Achieved a passing score on an MDE approved assessment.

• Must be certified by the State of Michigan as a PTA with an APTA certification.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• High level of interpersonal skills to handle sensitive and confidential situations and documentation.
• Proven team leadership and problem solving (listen, identify problem and collaboratively problem solve).
• Demonstrated ability to make good decisions that are consistent and fair within contractual guidelines and Board policies.
• Ability to work with diverse groups, facilitate group discussions, and teach adult learners.
• Ability to be a team leader, plan and manage multiple projects and budgets.
• Attention to detail in composing, typing, and proofing materials, establishing priorities and meeting deadlines.
• Good to excellent spelling, grammar, and written communication skills.
• Excellent telephone etiquette and oral communication skills.
• Recognition of adherence to the confidentiality requirements of the office and ability to maintain it at a high level.
• Knowledge of current issues, problems and challenges faced by urban systems.
• Demonstrated regular and predictable attendance.
• Ability to work flexible hours, evenings, and weekends.

ADA REQUIREMENTS

The physical demands, work environment factors, and mental functions described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Stands and/or walks during most of the working day. Turns, stoops, climbs, bends, pushes, pulls, reaches for, and carries materials and equipment in the performance of tasks. Must be able to lift a minimum of 40 pounds. Must be able to work outside for extended periods (up to the entire eight-hour shift) in all weather conditions. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, and ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The noise level in the work environment is usually loud to moderate.

MENTAL FUNCTIONS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to compare, analyze, communicate both orally and in writing in the English language, copy, coordinate, instruct, compute, synthesize, evaluate, use interpersonal skills, compile, and negotiate.

Non-Discrimination

The Grand Rapids Public Schools will not discriminate against any person based on race, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity and expression, height, weight, color, religion, national origin, age, marital status, pregnancy, disability, veteran, or military status.

Americans with Disabilities Act accommodations: Assistance with the application process may be requested through the Human Resources Department at (616) 819-2022 or humanresources@grps.org.