Occupational Therapy & Physical Therapy

The Occupational Therapy (OT) and Physical Therapy (PT) Department provides services to students under the provision of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Since occupational therapy an physical therapy are related services as indicated by California State Education Code, a student may receive OT and/or PT services as part of an IEP. In SDUSD, Occupational Therapy Specialists and Occupational Therapy Assistants provide a range of services to students in order for them to be able to access and participate in their specialized program. Therapy may be provided in a variety of ways including directly working with the student and/or consulting with teacher/other members of the school team to address required supports, accommodations and/or modifications.

The word "occupation" denotes a meaningful activity that a person performs in their daily life. For school-aged children, one very important role or occupation is that of a student. Occupational Therapists and Therapy Assistants consider a student's abilities, environmental factors and required educational tasks when supporting students. Therapy may be provided to support a student's educational goals by facilitating improved performance and/or provided adaptations.

School-based occupational therapy is a related service provided to students who meet the criteria for special education services under the provision of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004. Related service needs are determined upon completion of a school-based occupational therapy assessment and IEP team recommendation.

Physical Therapists and Physical Therapy Assistants work with educational staff and parents to support students with disabilities, particularly those with movement disorders, to access the school environment and curricula. The main focus is on functional areas including: proper seating and positioning, independent mobility around the classroom and school site, participation in play and leisure activities and preparation for adult life.

Referring a child for occupational or physical therapy services is a team decision. OT and PT services support access and progress in the curriculum and are not separate areas of need. If there are questions or concerns regarding whether or not a student would benefit from a related service, please discuss your concerns with the therapist(s) assigned to the school site.