School-based physical therapists, like you, help students achieve the most out of their education, helping them thrive in the classroom and overcome or adapt to any physical obstacles they face in the school setting. There are many benefits for students who work with a PT in schools, and the foundations you help them build as students set them up for many long-lasting benefits that help them throughout school and life. We see your lifelong impact on the student in your care and that’s why we want to inspire you to reach your goals and find a career path that you love.
If you’re looking for travel PT jobs, Blazer Jobs can help you find many travel physical therapist jobs and opportunities in schools around the country.
Physical Therapist Job Responsibilities
Physical therapy in schools centers on helping students function and thrive in the school environment. It’s not the same as physical therapy at a clinic or hospital. Rather than trying to meet all of the therapy needs of students, a school-based therapist helps ensure that every student can freely access their education. The physical therapist job description varies depending on student needs, but some of their responsibilities include:
- Attending Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings and establishing reasonable goals for each student
- Assessing and readjusting goals as needed
- Modifying the physical environment in the classroom and school as needed to maximize student participation
- Educating staff to encourage inclusion and participation in class
- Using adaptive aid when necessary, including wheelchairs, ramps, seating, walkers
- Working on balance to assist students when sitting in desk seats, swings, and school buses
- Practicing throwing, balancing, running, and other gross motor skills to encourage participation in gym class and recess
Physical Therapist Job Requirements
The first step in becoming a physical therapist is to earn a bachelor’s degree in a related field, like biology, anatomy, athletic training, physiology, or kinesiology.
To practice as a physical therapist, you must complete a doctor of physical therapy or DPT. The program you choose must be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). This degree covers everything you need to practice in all PT jobs and includes a full-time clinical component under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist to get real-life experience.
After completing a doctoral program, the next step is to pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE), which is a licensing requirement for all states. After passing the exam, you can apply for state licensure.
Most states have some reciprocity for PT licenses from other states, and you will need to apply for an endorsement to get a license in another state. You will usually need to provide verification of your current license, any disciplinary action, academic transcripts, and other credentials, and pass a test on the specific rules for practicing in the state. Notable exceptions to this are New Hampshire, New York, and Minnesota, which do not offer reciprocity to licenses from other states.
After being licensed, you can start working as a physical therapist, or you may choose to further your education by applying for a residency or fellowship to expand your knowledge and experience in a specialty area. You may also choose to become board certified and specialize in a variety of areas. Anyone interested in PT jobs in schools should consider a board certification in pediatrics.
Check out all of our travel physical therapy positions in school districts across the country and apply today to start your next adventure.