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Educationally-relevant Occupational Therapy (OT) and/or Physical Therapy (PT) services are integrated into the school's educational program as a means to enhance the independent functioning of students while promoting attainment of their educational objectives. The goal of school-based therapy is to foster functional independence within the school environment and to increase access to educational programs and services. OTs and PTs collaborate with other educational professionals and families to support students' academic and non-academic needs.
The need for school-based services is determined through the eligibility process. OT and PT are related services under Part B of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Students who are identified as having a disability under criteria IDEA can receive OT and/or PT services. In some instances, students whose disability affects their participation in school but who do not receive special education services may be eligible to receive OT and/ or PT services under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Under section 504, the team develops a plan to ensure equal access to an appropriate education for the student in general education.
Therapy and other related services become a means or method to attain overall educational goals and objectives/benchmarks, rather than the focus of separate therapy goals or objectives/benchmarks. School-based therapy is not intended to meet all the therapy needs of a student but is intended to meet the needs of the student to promote success in the educational environment.
The OT/PT office may be reached at 920-751-6800 ext. 10121.
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