Physical Therapy

What is school-based PT?

Physical therapy is a related service and is provided to support the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) for students who have a disability that interferes with their educational performance and ability to benefit from their education program.  School-based physical therapists promote motor development and the student’s participation in everyday routines and activities that are a part of his or her program.  School-based therapy is not intended to meet all of the therapeutic needs of a student; rather it is intended to ensure that a child can have physical access to his or her education. School-based physical therapy must be educationally relevant. 

Physical therapy in a school setting varies based on the student’s individual needs and can include:

• Educating staff to improve physical participation
• Modifying the environment to maximize student’s overall participation
• Improving the student’s safety when navigating the school, both indoors and outdoors