Physical Therapy Assistant

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary job functions herein described. Since every duty associated with this position may not be described herein, employees may be required to perform duties not specifically spelled out in the job description, but which may be reasonably considered to be incidental in the performing of their duties just as though they were written out in this job description.*

* *

**GRPS MISSION**: Our mission is to ensure that all students are educated, self-directed and productive members of society.

**Certified Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA)**

**Department: Special Education**

**Bargaining Unit: Union of Grand Rapids Education Support Professional (UGRESP)**

**Hourly Rate: Determined by the collective bargaining agreement (starting rate is fixed and non-negotiable)**

**JOB SUMMARY**

The Certified Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) works under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist (PT) but is also expected to work independently with students. The PTA will be carrying out student goals and instructional objectives as specified in their Individualized Educational Programs (IEP).

**ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS**

***Essential functions under the Americans with Disabilities Act may include any of the following duties, knowledge, and skills. This list is illustrative only and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by employees in this position. Regular on time and in person attendance is an essential function of this job. Other essential functions may include, but are not limited to the following:***

*** ***

- Assist in providing Physical Therapy in the following areas:

- Direct therapeutic intervention with students (individually or in small groups).

- Maintain accurate records regarding student progress.

- Modify/maintain therapy equipment and materials as appropriate.

- Modify/maintain student equipment as appropriate.

- Employ open communication with staff regarding student's therapeutic needs.

- Write clinic reports and other medical related information for assigned caseload, as directed by the supervising PT.

- Keep therapy area clean and neat.

- Attend parent/teacher conferences, team meetings, Individual Education Program (IEP) team meetings, staff meetings, and other appropriate, requested or assigned meetings.

- Follow District policies, procedures, and practices.

- Interact with co-workers, administration, students, parents, and the community in positive, supportive, professional, and cooperative manner.

- Other duties as assigned.

**QUALIFICATIONS**

**Education and Experience:**

- Must have completed at least one of the following:

- At least two years of study at an institution of higher education (60 Credits)

- Obtained an associate's or higher degree; or

- Achieved a passing score on a MDE approved assessment.

- Must be certified by the State of Michigan as a PTA with an APTA certification.

**Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:**

High level of interpersonal skills to handle sensitive and confidential situations and documentation.

Proven team leadership and problem solving (listen, identify problem and collaboratively problem solve).

Demonstrated ability to make good decisions that are consistent and fair w