School-Based Physical Therapist (PK-12)

Marion City School District•Marion, OH

19h

About The Position

We are seeking a dedicated, equity-minded Physical Therapist to join our student services team. In this role, you will provide therapy services to students (ages 3–21) to enhance their functional ability to participate in the educational environment. You will work closely with families, teachers, and IEP teams to ensure every student, regardless of background, has the physical access they need to succeed.

Requirements

Education: Master’s or Doctorate degree in Physical Therapy from an accredited program.
Licensure: Valid license to practice Physical Therapy from the Ohio Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Athletic Trainers (OTPTAT) Board .
Certification: Ability to obtain an Ohio Department of Education (ODE) Pupil Services License.
Exhibit professional behavior, emotional stability and sound judgement.
Maintain confidentiality and respect for confidential information at all times.
Establish and maintain cooperative relationships.
Refer suspected cases of child abuse immediately to the appropriate child protective services/law enforcement agency as mandated by state law and Board of Education policy.
Promote good public relations by personal appearance, attitude and conversation.
Takes all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect district equipment, materials and facilities.
Plans purposeful assignments for instructional aides.
Ensure the safety of students.
Each staff member shall remain free of any alcohol or non-prescribed controlled substance and abuse of any prescribed controlled substance in the workplace throughout his/her employment in the District.

Nice To Haves

Experience in pediatric therapy or a school setting is preferred.
Strong cultural competency and the ability to communicate effectively with a diverse urban population are essential.

Responsibilities

Conduct comprehensive physical therapy evaluations as part of the Multifactor Evaluation (MFE) process and through staff referrals; assist school psychologists with testing procedures and placement recommendations.
Determine student eligibility for physical therapy services and establish appropriate service frequency and intensity based on educational impact.
Develop, implement, and monitor Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and 504 Plans, ensuring goals are functional, measurable, and aligned with student needs.
Provide direct physical therapy services (individual and group), focusing on gross motor development, gait training, balance, postural control, and functional mobility within the school environment.
Deliver services directly and/or through supervision of Physical Therapist Assistants, as appropriate.
Serve as a consultant to classroom teachers and staff, collaborating to modify physical environments, adapt instructional materials, and support student access to curriculum.
Assess, recommend, order, fit, and monitor assistive technology and adaptive equipment (e.g., walkers, standers, wheelchairs, specialized seating) in coordination with Student Services.
Provide counseling, guidance, and advocacy to parents and staff regarding physical therapy-related disabilities, including practical home carryover strategies sensitive to socioeconomic considerations.
Implement behavioral and motivational strategies to promote positive participation, attention, and functional independence.
Maintain accurate attendance, progress, and service records in compliance with Marion City Schools policies, Ohio Department of Education requirements, and professional ethics.
Participate in district and building meetings, professional development activities, conferences, and workshops as required.
Fulfill assigned teacher work schedules and collaborate with instructional staff in the shared support of students.
Conduct parent communication through conferences, written reports, and home visits when appropriate to ensure consistent engagement and understanding.
Stay current with best practices and instructional methods related to school-based physical therapy services.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Superintendent or Student Services Supervisor.