Navigating the Role of a School-Based Physical Therapist
October 2, 2025
As more schools invest in student wellness and inclusive learning, the need for school-based physical therapists is growing. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects physical therapy roles to grow by 15% by 2032—much faster than most other professions.
For pediatric physical therapy professionals, this growth opens a meaningful opportunity: supporting children with impairments through individualized care, right in the classroom.
At GHR Education, we connect school-based PTs with roles that align with their values, strengths, and goals. We support service providers throughout the school year—from credentialing to onboarding—so they can focus on making a difference.
What Is a School-Based Physical Therapist?
School-based physical therapists help students overcome mobility challenges that limit participation in classroom routines and school activities. They serve as related-service providers under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, ensuring each student's therapy goals support their access to the general education curriculum.
At a Glance: School-Based PT vs. Outpatient PT
| Key Differences | School-based Physical Therapist | Outpatient/Hospital Physical Therapist |
| Focus Area | Educational access & participation | Medical rehabilitation |
| Setting | Classrooms, cafeterias, hallways | Clinics, hospitals |
| Schedule | School hours / calendar-based | May include nights & weekends |
| Collaboration | Teachers, SLPs, special educators | Physicians, nurses |
| Goal | IEP-aligned progress | Functional |
Unlike PTs in hospitals or outpatient clinics, school-based PTs design interventions that support classroom participation in lessons, routines, and peer interactions. They use evidence-based strategies to build gross motor skills, foster independence, and reduce barriers to learning.
Collaboration is central to the role. PTs work alongside caregivers, educators, occupational therapists, and special education teams to align therapy goals with each student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP).
For example, a PT might help a student learn to climb stairs safely using a walker, or team up with a speech-language pathologist to support a child who struggles with both movement and communication.
Key Responsibilities of a School Physical Therapist
A school-based PT's work centers on helping students flourish in school through movement and functional independence.
Their role typically involves the following:
Assessment & Planning
- Evaluating and re-evaluating students to determine eligibility for services and set IEP goals.
- Creating personalized care plans aligned with the curriculum.
- Participating in IEP meetings to ensure therapy plans support educational outcomes.
Service Delivery
- Providing therapy during the school day in ways that fit naturally into class schedules.
- Working with students in classrooms, playgrounds, cafeterias, and hallways to apply skills in everyday situations.
- Recommending adaptive equipment and strategies to make learning environments safe and accessible.
- Reviewing school facilities to spot barriers and suggest improvements.
Collaboration & Team Support
- Collaborating with teachers, aides, and special educators to weave therapy strategies into routines.
- Coordinating with occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, and families to provide well-rounded support.
- Leading training sessions for staff on safe handling, positioning, and adaptive equipment use.
Documentation & Compliance
- Maintaining clear progress notes and records in line with district, state, and IEP requirements.
- Completing Medicaid documentation and billing when applicable.
- Following the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) standards and state licensure regulations.
- Supervising PTAs to ensure services meet professional and legal guidelines.
Student Empowerment & Transition
- Helping older students prepare for life after school by addressing mobility needs linked to work, college, or community access.
- Contributing to emergency and evacuation plans for students with physical disabilities.
Whether assigned to a single school or rotating across a district, school physical therapists help integrate therapy into daily routines and long-term student support plans.
Skills and Qualifications Needed for School-Based Physical Therapy Jobs
To succeed as a school-based PT, you'll need a mix of clinical expertise with a deep understanding of the educational environment.
Required Credentials
- Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from an accredited program
- State licensure for school-based practice
- Familiarity with the APTA standards
- Understanding of IDEA, Section 504, and IEP development
Essential Skills
- Collaborating with paraprofessionals and educational teams
- Creating interventions tailored to physical education and classroom activities
- Communicating clearly with caregivers, students, and school staff
- Navigating different school environments and working across public schools and districts
- Empathy, patience, and adaptability when working with diverse learners
- Previous experience working with occupational therapists, special education teachers, or other related services professionals is also a valuable advantage
How to Secure Entry-Level School-Based PT Jobs
Getting started in school-based physical therapy can feel intimidating, especially when job listings ask for experience you haven’t had the chance to build yet. It’s easy to wonder where to begin.
The good news is that many schools are open to hiring early-career clinicians, especially those who show a team-first mindset and a willingness to learn.
With the right guidance and preparation, you can stand out as a strong candidate, even without years of experience. Here are practical tips to help you land your first role:
5 Steps to Your First Job As A School-Based Physical Therapist
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If you can demonstrate your ability to communicate, adapt, and contribute meaningfully to a team—even as a new grad—you’ll stand out to hiring committees in schools.
Challenges and Rewards of School-Based Physical Therapy
Like any healthcare role, school-based physical therapy comes with its challenges and unique rewards. Balancing therapy goals with academic priorities, adapting to diverse student needs, and working across teams can stretch both clinical and interpersonal skills in new ways. But for many PTs, the impact of their work goes far beyond movement milestones.
Common challenges school-based physical therapists face:
- Managing a diverse caseload across multiple schools.
- Scheduling services around testing, early dismissals, or school events.
- Coordinating with professionals across the special education team.
- Providing therapy in the least restrictive environment, as required under IDEA.
- Documenting progress tied to IEP goals.
The most rewarding part of being a school physical therapist:
- Watching students develop independence and confidence
- Collaborating with educators committed to student success
- Supporting long-term physical, social, and academic growth
- Practicing pediatric care in a community-based setting
- Building trusted relationships with students, families, and caregivers who rely on your expertise
- Benefiting from a predictable school-year schedule and stable income.
As a school-based PT, your interventions shape not just movement, but a student’s ability to fully participate in education and community life.
Why Choose GHR Education for School-Based PT Roles
Finding the right school-based PT role requires a partner who understands the nuances of educational settings and the specialized role physical therapists play in supporting student success. That’s where GHR Education comes in.
Our expertise in educational staffing allows us to match schools with the support they need and connect PTs with roles where they can thrive. Whether you’re a recent graduate or an experienced clinician, we work to match your skills, goals, and values with the opportunities that fit best.
GHR offers 24/7 support throughout the hiring and placement process, so you’re never navigating next steps alone.
Most importantly, we believe in building lasting relationships. That means staying in touch after you start your assignment, supporting your professional growth, and connecting you with schools where your work can truly make a difference.
Not sure what to expect from your first school-based PT role? Read our guide tostarting school-based healthcare assignments to prepare with confidence.
Start Strong with GHR Education by Your Side
If you’re ready to bring your clinical skills into an educational setting, now is the perfect time to explore a career in school-based physical therapy. GHR Education is here to help you step confidently into a role that supports student growth, inclusion, and lifelong mobility.
We’ll help you navigate licensure, paperwork, district onboarding, and your first day on the job. And we’ll continue to support you—whether you’re refining IEP goals, coordinating with IEP Teams, or recommending assistive technology for improved classroom access.
Start your journey with a partner who understands your purpose. Quick Apply
