25/26 SY - Physical Therapist Assistant

Hoquiam School District No. 28

Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)

Job Description

Position Open Until Filled - First Screening Date: 8/20/25

Required Attachments:

• Cover Letter or Letter of Interest
• Resume
• 3 Letters of Recommendation - Including at least one from a supervisor
• Internal Applicants - Include a minimum of a cover letter and updated resume

Overview:

Hoquiam School District is committed to fostering engaged learners, supporting adaptive pathways for every student, nurturing meaningful relationships, and strengthening community connections. The Physical Therapist Assistant plays a vital role in supporting students with disabilities by providing individualized physical therapy services that promote access, mobility, and independence. This position supports students' functional development within the school setting to help them fully engage in learning and school activities.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities:

The School-Based Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) supports the implementation of physical therapy services to students with disabilities as prescribed by a licensed Physical Therapist (PT). Working under the direct or general supervision of a PT as required by state practice acts, the PTA helps students access their educational environment through mobility, gross motor development, and functional independence.

Fostering Meaningful Relationships:

• Foster trust and rapport with students to promote participation and motivation during therapy sessions.
• Collaborate with teachers, paraprofessionals, families, and related service providers to align therapy goals with classroom and school activities.
• Communicate clearly and professionally with supervising PT and educational staff to ensure continuity of care and support.

Supporting Engaged Learners:

• Implement individualized physical therapy interventions and exercises as directed by the PT to support student access to academic and functional goals.
• Monitor and document student performance during therapy sessions, providing data and feedback to the PT for analysis and plan-of-care updates.
• Adapt and modify equipment or environments to increase student engagement and accessibility during school activities.

Advancing Adaptive Pathways:

• Assist in the development and use of assistive devices and adaptive equipment to support student mobility and function across learning settings.
• Provide input to the PT on student responses to therapy to inform flexible and evolving therapy plans.
• Support transitions between school levels or settings by preparing students for new physical expectations and routines.

Strengthening Community Connections:

• Participate in IEP meetings and school team discussions as requested by the PT to provide updates and promote a team-based approach to therapy.
• Help organize or participate in school-wide wellness, mobility, or adaptive recreation events that connect students with peers and the broader school community.
• Promote inclusive participation in extracurricular activities through physical accessibility support.

Supervision Requirements:

• Operates under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist in accordance with Washington State PT Practice Act and district policies.
• Supervision may be direct or general as determined by the supervising PT based on student needs, PTA competencies, and task complexity.
• Receives ongoing performance feedback and support from the supervising PT.

Qualifications:

Required:

• Associate's Degree from a CAPTE-accredited Physical Therapist Assistant program.
• Current license/certification as a PTA in the state of [State Name].
• Minimum 1 year of pediatric, school-based, or related experience preferred.
• CPR certification and clearance of required background checks.

Preferred:

• Experience in an educational setting with knowledge of IEPs and special education practices.
• Strong communication, organization, and collaboration skills.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift, position, and assist students with physical needs.
• Frequent walking, standing, bending, and kneeling required in a dynamic school environment.

Salary: $23.87 - $29.83/hr

Benefits: State allocation towards dental, vision, medical insurance, retirement, 9 paid holidays, 10 sick leave days, 3 personal leave days.

Employment is contingent upon successful clearance of a Washington State Patrol, FBI fingerprint criminal history background check, and Sexual Misconduct background check.

NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY Hoquiam School District #28 does not discriminate in any programs or activities on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. The following employees have been designated to handle question and complaints of alleged discrimination: Title IX Coordinator Jason Ihde 325 W. Chenault Avenue ... ... , Director of Special Services and Section 504/ADA Coordinator Brianne Barrett 325 W. Chenault Avenue ... ... and Civil Rights Compliance Coordinator Mike Villarreal, Superintendent 325 W. Chenault Avenue ... ...