Physical Therapy

  • Physical therapy in a school setting is considered a related service that focuses on the student’s ability to move as safely and independently as possible in the school environment. The physical therapist’s work is designed to enable the student to travel throughout the school environment; participate in classroom activities; maintain and change position in the classroom; as well as manage stairs, restrooms, and the cafeteria.  

    The TrueNorth physical therapist consults with parents and the educational team regarding students whose mobility, transportation, or related accessibility appear to be affecting academic performance.

    TrueNorth physical therapy services are provided across all a broad range of educational environments and multiple levels of service. The TrueNorth physical therapist may work one-on-one with a student or provide services in a group activity. Direct services involve a therapists carrying out a specifically designed program in individual or group therapy sessions. Activities are done with the purpose of improving the underlying causes of the motor delays in areas such as strength, motor control and coordination. Improving these underlying components will allow the student to perform more independently, safely and efficiently within the classroom.

    Additionally, TrueNorth physical therapists provide consultative services for teachers, teaching assistants and related classroom management, and consult on the implementation of programs of benefit to all students in a general education classroom. Physical therapists are a part of the interdisciplinary team who serve district students.

    Consultation services involve the physical therapists assessing and consulting on motor performance in the classroom. Through collaboration with the teachers and parents, strategies are developed which enable the teachers and parents to interact with the student more effectively. The primary goal of this type of intervention is to adapt the environment and or the educational program.

     

    TrueNorth 804 District Physical Therapy Referral Form

    For information, please contact:

    michels Carol M. Michels, Ed.D., MS, OTR/L
    Director of District Services
    TrueNorth Educational Cooperative 804
    760 Red Oak Lane
    Highland Park, IL  60035
    847-831-5100 ext. 2254