I presented to a live audience for the first time in 2015. I quickly realized that so many of us were looking for better ways to work with students in Secondary settings. I wrote the first version in 2016 as a way to document my perspective on how we were assessing and intervening in secondary settings. These ideas resonated and continued to evolve. In its 4th edition, I have updated it as my knowledge has grown. I think this version will hold for a while. Meant to establish evaluation and intervention practices for school-based physical and occupational therapists, I have found that teachers also find it useful.
Some of this content can be found within this website and my first website or in educational offerings. If you want it all in one place, the book is meant for you!
From an Amazon reviewer, "As an Adapted Physical Education teacher, I found Fit4Work to be one of the most practical and applicable resources I’ve read in years. Connie Johnson connects functional fitness, employment readiness, and inclusion in a way that makes sense for real classrooms and therapy environments.
I’ve used her principles directly in my Adapted PE program — building a circuit training session modeled after working in a grocery store, with push, pull, and lift stations that mirror real vocational tasks. This approach not only builds physical strength but also helps students see the connection between fitness and future independence.
Connie’s Work Capacity Evaluation model and Functional Strength Protocol 3.0 provide a clear structure for supporting students with disabilities as they transition to adulthood. I’ve known Connie personally for years, and she is truly one of the best in the business — passionate, innovative, and deeply committed to creating meaningful opportunities for every student.
If you’re an educator, physical therapist, or occupational therapist working toward inclusive outcomes, Fit4Work is a must-read."
An idea. ..the merging of “Growing…Plants, Functional Skills and Communication Skills in School Gardens” and Fit4Work...an application piece of how to use gardens as the medium to promote job skills in youth with developmental disabilities.
Here is a link to my Substack on this book. A website is coming, but if you just can't wait, here is the book link.
From an Amazon reviewer , "Very user friendly and gives easy to incorporate activities as well as enough information to completely revamp your program. So helpful!"
Asynchronous Offerings
Some asynchronous webinars hosted at Apply EBP here.
Live Offerings
Sometimes, individuals, school divisions and states want to learn about Fit4Work live! We have presented to small groups, State level DOE and Professional Organizations. See our offerings below. Please email us at Fit4workpt@gmail.com to schedule.
Karen Greeley, PT, DScPT is a Fit4Work collaborator and presenter. She hosts free, 1 hour virtual sessions where she can review how to use some of the tools on this website and answer questions to support your implementation.
Would you like Fit4Work to come to you? Karen and Connie can be available to present at local or state conferences, virtually or in person. Content varies from 2-6 hours.