School(s):    All Schools
Grade(s):    PreK-8

Overview

Physical therapy services primarily focus on purposeful, goal-directed activities that improve a student's functional performance during his/her school day. Physical therapy at Lincoln is provided both in and outside of the general education classroom.  Physical therapists collaborate and consult with general education teachers, special education teachers, and other related service providers to promote success for students.

Curriculum

School-based physical therapy is a support service included in the student's individualized educational program.  School physical therapists use therapeutic activities that may improve a student's ability to physically access his/her educational environment.  School physical therapists both assess and provide services in the following areas:

• Mobility skills
• Postural control
• Seating and positioning
• Gross motor skills
• Strength
• Balance
• Bilateral coordination
• Motor planning

Physical therapy is tailored to meet the individual needs and goals of students in the program.  Physical therapists assess students within their educational setting, using an ecological model to determine their needs; provide treatment, program consultation, and environmental modifications for students with disabilities to improve performance within the educational environment; and collaborate with team members, including students, parents, teachers, physical education teachers, orientation and mobility specialists, and speech therapists.  Physical therapy intervention may include the use of environmental adaptations or assistive equipment. 

School-based physical therapy may include individual or small group treatment, consultation, monitoring, or environmental adaptations.

Services

In addition to the direct services described, indirect and transition services are available for students receiving Physical Therapy.  The range of services varies widely depending on a student's individualized needs.  The type and frequency of service are decided at the Team meeting.