Benefits:
401(k)
Competitive salary
Dental insurance
Employee discounts
Health insurance
Paid time off
Training & development
Vision insurance
Position: School Physical Therapist (Special Education) Posting: Public Reports to: Assistant Principal or Director of Related Services
About Us: The Shirley Aninias School is a private, 12-month behavior-based elementary program serving neurodiverse students ages 4–13. We create highly individualized programs that address each child’s academic, social-emotional, and behavioral needs. Our team is committed to providing meaningful accommodations in a supportive learning environment that nurtures each student’s potential. We’re excited to welcome passionate, experienced professionals who are eager to collaborate, grow, and make a difference.
Position Overview: We are seeking a dedicated and experienced School Physical Therapist to join our dynamic, multidisciplinary team. The PT will provide direct services to students with diverse physical and motor needs, supporting their functional mobility, access to the school environment, and overall well-being. The role also includes designing and implementing an adaptive physical education program for all students.
Key Responsibilities:
Assessment & Planning:
Conduct comprehensive evaluations to assess student needs, strengths, and areas of concern related to physical function, movement, and motor development.
Evaluate students with physical disabilities or injuries to determine their individual therapy needs.
Develop individualized treatment plans and therapy goals in collaboration with IEP teams.
Participate in the development, review, and modification of IEPs to ensure physical therapy goals align with students’ educational needs.
Therapeutic Interventions:
Design, implement, and adjust physical therapy interventions using a variety of evidence-based techniques and modalities.
Provide direct physical therapy services in both individual and group settings, as outlined in IEPs.
Create and oversee an adaptive physical education program that promotes physical participation and inclusion for all students.
Recommend and assist with implementing environmental modifications and assistive technologies to enhance access to education and promote independence.
Data Collection & Reporting:
Maintain accurate, timely documentation of all services, including assessments, interventions, and progress monitoring.
Track and report student progress regularly to the IEP team, school staff, and families.
Conduct periodic re-evaluations to adjust therapy plans as needed and support ongoing IEP development.
Collaboration & Communication:
Consult and collaborate with teachers, related service providers, and special education staff to integrate physical therapy into the educational environment.
Participate actively in IEP and multidisciplinary team meetings to support comprehensive student planning.
Communicate effectively with parents/guardians about student progress, therapy goals, and strategies for continued development at home.
Advocate for the needs of students with physical disabilities and provide training to school staff and families on therapy-related supports and best practices.
Environment & Access Support:
Adapt and modify school environments and physical activities to ensure accessibility and promote student independence.
Support students during transitions and school routines that require physical engagement or mobility support.
Physical Requirements and Essential Functions:
Must be able to physically assist students with mobility challenges, including lifting, transferring, and positioning, using appropriate and approved techniques (training provided).
Ability to lift, carry, and maneuver therapy equipment, adaptive tools, and gym or classroom furniture as needed for sessions.
Maintain consistent visual and auditory supervision of students during therapy and school activities.
Actively engage with students during physical activities, which may require walking, running, kneeling, squatting, or sitting on the floor.
Must have or be willing to obtain current First Aid and CPR certification.
Qualifications:
Required: Master’s Degree or higher in Physical Therapy.
Required: Current NYS certification in good standing.
Minimum 2 years of experience in a school or clinical setting, preferably working with neurodiverse student populations.
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with students, families, and school staff.
Detail-oriented with strong organizational, documentation, and communication abilities.
Flexible, compassionate, and committed to student-centered, inclusive practices.
Engaged in ongoing professional development and current with best practices in physical therapy and school-based services.
Benefits:
Matching 401(k) (after 6 months)
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Vision insurance
Long term disability insurance
Commuter benefits
Generous leave package
Training opportunities
Salary:
Starting between $70,000 - $85,000 based on experience
The Shirley Aninias School is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.