Physical Therapy
Lead Physical Therapist, Anne Zakoor
School-based physical therapy (PT) is a specialized related service provided under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to help students with disabilities access and participate in their educational environment.
Unlike clinic-based physical therapy, which focuses on broad medical recovery and individual impairments, school-based PT operates under an educational model. Services are only provided if a student needs them to function and learn at school.
What a School-Based Physical Therapist Does
- Evaluating Mobility: Assessing if a student can safely navigate hallways, stairs, restrooms, the cafeteria, and the playground.
- Manages Adaptive Equipment: Helps fit, monitor, and train staff on mobility aids, walkers, orthotics, or special seating.
- Collaborating with Staff: Teaching aides and teachers how to safely position and assist students during the school day.
- Adapts the Environment: Collaborates with teachers to make playgrounds, cafeterias, and restrooms accessible
Parents should note that school-based therapies are not a substitute for more intensive medical-based therapies. School-based therapies are supportive services that a student needs in order to learn. It is important for parents to realize that the level of school based services will not match that of those services provided in a medical model.