Massachusetts Healthcare Jobs

Job Details

Job ID: 5049457

Job Description

Aquatic Physical Therapist

Reports To : School Leader

Who We Are

At our school, we proudly support students with diverse abilities, including those facing cognitive challenges, physical disabilities, and complex medical needs. Our innovative Transdisciplinary Model fosters collaboration among teachers and therapists, ensuring a holistic learning experience with the priority of increasing each students ability to communicate through Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Our vibrant community celebrates a rich tapestry of cultures and backgrounds. Excitingly, in 2025, we’ll be moving to a beautiful new building featuring a therapeutic pool, sensory garden, rooftop classroom, and specialized spaces designed just for our students. We warmly invite you to join us at The Carter for the upcoming 2025-2026 school year!

Position Overview:

The Aquatic Therapist is responsible for delivering specialized therapeutic services to students within a supportive and secure aquatic environment. This professional will collaborate closely with educators, therapists, and other school personnel to implement tailored therapy plans designed to enhance students' physical, sensory, and emotional well-being. The role entails working with students who exhibit a variety of disabilities, including but not limited to physical, cognitive, and sensory impairments. The Aquatic Therapist will employ water-based therapeutic techniques aimed at improving functional abilities and overall quality of life for these individuals.

Key Responsibilities:

• Therapy Planning and Implementation:

• Develop and implement individualized aquatic therapy programs for students based on their unique needs, goals, and abilities.

• Work with a multi-disciplinary team (teachers, physical therapists, occupational therapists, etc.) to assess and monitor students' progress.

• Adapt therapeutic exercises to accommodate students with severe disabilities, ensuring a safe and supportive environment.

• Therapeutic Techniques:

• Utilize water’s buoyancy, resistance, and hydrostatic pressure to assist in improving strength, flexibility, coordination, and motor control.

• Incorporate techniques such as aquatic stretching, strengthening exercises, sensory stimulation, balance training, and relaxation.

• Assist students in performing tasks that enhance their physical and mental development.

• Safety and Supervision:

• Ensure the safety of all students during aquatic therapy sessions by maintaining proper supervision and observing safety protocols.

• Maintain a safe, clean, and well-organized aquatic therapy environment (e.g., pool area, equipment).

• Provide immediate first aid and CPR in emergency situations as needed.

• Collaboration:

• Communicate regularly with parents, caregivers, and staff regarding students' progress, therapy needs, and any concerns.

• Work closely with other special education professionals to create and adjust Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for students requiring aquatic therapy.

• Participate in staff meetings, professional development, and training related to special education and therapeutic techniques.

• Documentation and Reporting:

• Keep detailed records of therapy sessions, including objectives, progress, modifications, and any incidents or concerns.

• Provide regular reports to the educational team and parents regarding student progress toward IEP goals.

• Assist in completing required documentation for school district and state compliance.

• Professional Development:

• Stay up-to-date on current best practices in aquatic therapy and special education.

• Participate in relevant workshops, training sessions, and conferences to improve professional knowledge and skills.

Qualifications:

• Education and Certification:

• Doctorate Degree in Physical Therapy from an accredited institution.

• Licensure: Valid state licensure as a Physical Therapist, or license eligible

• Valid Aquatic Therapy certification (e.g., Aquatic Exercise Association certification) or eligibility to obtain certification within a specified time frame.

• CPR and First Aid certification required.

• Lifeguard Certification is required.

• Experience working with students with disabilities is preferred.

• Skills and Abilities:

• Strong understanding of therapeutic techniques and water-based therapy methods.

• Ability to develop and implement individualized therapy plans.

• Ability to adapt therapy sessions for students with diverse physical and cognitive abilities.

• Knowledge of special education principles, including IEPs and related services.

• Excellent communication skills to collaborate with students, families, and other school professionals.

• Patience, empathy, and flexibility when working with children with severe disabilities.

• Strong organizational and time-management skills.

Working Conditions:

• The position requires physical activity, including standing, walking, and being in the water during therapy sessions.

• The work environment includes working in a pool setting with fluctuating temperatures and humidity levels.

• The Aquatic Therapist may be required to lift or assist students with mobility impairments.

Terms: BTU Group 1

Please refer to www.bostonpublicschools.org/ohc (under "Employee Benefits and Policies") for more information on salary and compensation. Salaries are listed by Unions and Grade/Step.

The start and end times of BPS schools vary, as do the lengths of the school day. Some BPS schools have a longer school day through the "Schedule A" Expanded Learning Time (ELT) agreement.

The Boston Public Schools, in accordance with its nondiscrimination policies, does not discriminate in its programs, facilities, or employment or educational opportunities on the basis of race, color, age, criminal record (inquiries only), disability, homelessness, sex/gender, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, genetics or military status, and does not tolerate any form of retaliation, or bias-based intimidation, threat or harassment that demeans individuals’ dignity or interferes with their ability to learn or work.

Position Type: Not provided

Positions Available: 1