PTA- Physical Therapist Assistant

The Superintendent of Schools announces the following position within the Fall River Public School System:

Position: Physical Therapist Assistant

Job Description:  The assistant position is accountable for working with students under the supervision and guidance of a registered physical therapist. The PTAs work cooperatively within the school environment  and are responsible for providing individual, group, and or cooperative lessons following IEP or 504 plans in order to assist students in accessing the educational programs

Performance Responsibilities:

1. Responsible for assisting the RPT in the provision of therapeutic and educational interventions  for students as documented in IEPs and 504 plans. Interventions may include but are not limited to, lifting, transferring, positioning, using adaptive equipment, changing when necessary, setting up positioning devices, assisting with mobility training (i.e. wheelchair, crutches, walker), as well as assisting and supporting during activity execution.
2. Work cooperatively with regular and special education staff to accommodate the needs of the students within the academic environment.
3. Travel from school to school to meet the needs of the caseload demands.
4. Schedule assigned students within the appropriate time frame of the school day and work week that would best meet the needs of the student, as well as maximizing the time of the assistant. Review schedule with supervising therapist.
5. Work cooperatively with the supervising therapist. Provide information relevant to the student's recommended program in writing or verbally as is prearranged between supervisor and assistant. Meet regularly for supervision and case review.  Assume initiative in seeking out registered staff when encountering difficulties in procedures or assigned services.
6. Document student progress daily and quarterly towards IEP goals and review with supervising therapist.
7. Attend staff meetings and team conferences, as needed.
8. Participate in continuing education opportunities offered within the district and in other settings, as needed to maintain current licensure and remain knowledgeable of current trends in therapy in school settings.
9. Complete other duties that may be assigned.

Required Qualifications:

• Experience providing PT within a school based setting
• Demonstrated experience supporting students with special needs
• Ability to speak Spanish and/or Portuguese,

The Superintendent of Schools reserves the right to waive a position qualification or determine that there is an acceptable alternative to that qualification. If the Superintendent intends to waive a qualification, such intent will be shared with the Fall River School Committee.

Reports To: Assistant Superintendent for Special Education or Designee

Terms of Employment: Work year, salary and benefits according to the FREA Unit B Contract. 
Closing Date for Applications:  Until filled

The Fall River Public Schools offers all programs, activities, and employment opportunities without regard to race, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation, age and disability.