School-based PT Services:

The Elizabeth Lee Black School’s physical therapists support the student and classroom staff within the school learning environment.  Physical therapists work closely with the classroom staff for training and to monitor classroom positioning and gross motor programs.  They provide adapted equipment such as specialized seating, supportive standers and gait trainers to help students function within their daily school routines.  Physical therapy interventions focus on achieving gross motor goals that are established as part of the student’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP).  These interventions may include mobility training, balance and coordination activities, developmental skill activities, therapeutic handling, therapeutic positioning and adaptation of the environment.

• School-based Physical Therapy (PT) services are provided under the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) as a related service with the intent “to assist a child with a disability to benefit from special education” (IDEA 300.34). 
• School-based PTs use a multi-disciplinary team approach.  Goals are written as an educational goal and are discipline-free (functional and measurable).
• PT services are driven by the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and are based on student need to enhance their performance within the educational program.
• PT services focus on maximizing each individual’s potential for independence within the educational environment.  PT interventions may include functional mobility training, balance and coordination activities, developmental skill activities, therapeutic handling, therapeutic positioning, and adaptation of the environment.
• Physical therapists often use or prescribe specially adapted seating, standing, gait and mobility equipment to support the student’s educational program.

We have great fun in school-based physical therapy at the Elizabeth Lee Black School- take a look!