Job Description

PENDLETON COUNTY SCHOOLS

PHYSICAL THERAPY ASSISTANT

TOTAL COMPENSATION: $30.00 an hour, not to exceed 12 hours a week.

TERM OF EMPLOYMENT: 2026-2027 School Year,

Supervisor: Special Educator Director

The Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) provides physical therapy services to eligible students under the direction and supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist (PT) in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), West Virginia Policy 2419, West Virginia Code, and district procedures. The PTA supports students with disabilities in accessing educational opportunities by implementing therapeutic interventions that enhance mobility, positioning, functional motor skills, independence, and participation in school activities.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Student Services

• Implement physical therapy treatment plans developed by the supervising Physical Therapist.
• Provide direct and indirect physical therapy services as prescribed in students' Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or 504s.
• Assist students in developing gross motor, mobility, balance, coordination, strength, and functional movement skills.
• Support students in accessing educational programs and participating in school activities.
• Assist with positioning, transfers, adaptive equipment use, and mobility training as directed by the Physical Therapist.
• Monitor and document student progress toward therapy goals and objectives.
• Ability to pass a criminal background check.

IEP and Special Education Support

• Collaborate with special educators, related service providers, administrators, and families to support student achievement.
• Participate in IEP meetings when requested by the supervising Physical Therapist or district administration.
• Provide input regarding student performance and functional mobility needs.
• Assist in implementing accommodations, modifications, and therapy recommendations identified in IEPs.

Collaboration and Consultation

• Work collaboratively with school staff to promote student independence and participation in educational settings.
• Train and support staff in implementing therapeutic strategies and safe mobility practices as directed by the Physical Therapist.
• Communicate effectively with parents, teachers, and service providers regarding student progress and needs.
• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings and problem-solving discussions.

Documentation and Compliance

• Maintain accurate and timely service logs, data collection records, and progress reports.
• Ensure documentation complies with district, state, and federal requirements.
• Maintain confidentiality of student information in accordance with FERPA, IDEA, and Board policies.
• Assist with compliance monitoring and reporting requirements related to physical therapy services.

Professional Responsibilities

• Demonstrate professionalism, ethical conduct, and appropriate judgment at all times.
• Maintain effective working relationships with students, families, staff, and community partners.
• Participate in required professional development activities.
• Stay current on best practices and regulatory requirements related to school-based physical therapy.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the supervising Physical Therapist, Director of Special Education, or Superintendent.

Qualifications

Required

• Associate degree from an accredited Physical Therapist Assistant program.
• Current West Virginia Physical Therapist Assistant license in good standing.
• Ability to work under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist as required by West Virginia law.
• Knowledge of child development, physical disabilities, motor development, and rehabilitation techniques.
• Ability to lift, position, transfer, and assist students safely.
• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

Preferred

• Experience working with school-aged children.
• Experience providing school-based physical therapy services.
• Knowledge of IDEA, West Virginia Policy 2419, and special education procedures.
• Experience working with assistive technology, adaptive equipment, and mobility devices.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of physical therapy practices applicable to educational settings.
• Ability to follow and implement treatment plans developed by a licensed Physical Therapist.
• Ability to collect and maintain accurate student data and records.
• Ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams.
• Ability to foster positive relationships with students and families.
• Understanding of the educational impact of physical disabilities and motor impairments.
• Commitment to inclusion, student success, and educational access for all learners.