Purpose of Program:

Physical Therapy is a related service provided to assist a child with a disability to benefit from Special Education. School Physical Therapy focuses on a child's ability to move as independently as possible in the school environment. The School Physical Therapist evaluates the child's ability to move throughout the school and to participate in classroom activities. The decision of whether a child with a disability qualifies for School Physical Therapy is made by a team. This team determines whether the child has a disability, has a need for Special Education, and requires related services such as Physical Therapy. Physical Therapy interventions are designed to enable the student to travel throughout the school environment; participate in classroom activities; maintain and change positions in the classroom; as well as manage stairs, restrooms, and the cafeteria.

Program and Service Activities Provided:

Procurement of necessary physician’s statements (forms).
Evaluate students referred for consideration of the need for Physical Therapy.
Participate on the IEP team as assigned including the preparation of the timely and appropriate individual IEP team member reports.
Assist in the development and implementation of the individual education plan as requested.
Provide direct Physical Therapy/consultation.
Provide training (including in-services) as necessary for those involved with the child’s program.
Provide communication and follow-up with medical personnel.
Assist in the completion of the necessary documentation for the purpose of third party billing.