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2025-26 DSE Public Pages » SERVICES » Physical Therapy

Physical Therapy

Physical Therapy (PT)
Physical Therapy (PT) is a related service that supports students with disabilities who have motor challenges that impact their ability to access their educational environment. Services are provided based on Individualized Education Program (IEP) team decisions and typically aim to improve functional mobility, physical access, underlying body functions such as coordination, posture, and balance, and/or participation in school activities through one or more approaches that incorporate collaboration and education to classroom staff, skill acquisition, and/or accommodations.
Focus Areas
  • Service Delivery
    Providing service as per the student's PT prescription on the IEP.
  • Professional Development
    In LAUSD, Physical Therapists prioritize professional development that enhances their ability to support student access and participation in educational environments. Key focus areas include evidence-based practices in school-based PT, interdisciplinary collaboration, and training in assistive technology and inclusive mobility strategies. Ongoing learning also emphasizes culturally responsive care and compliance with IDEA and district policies.
  • Functional Mobility & Physical Access
    Support students in improving sitting, standing, walking, transitioning between positions, and navigating school environments safely and independently.
  • Coordination, Posture, & Balance
    Enhance students’ abilities to maintain appropriate posture for all classroom and playground activities.
  • Collaboration with School Teams
    Work closely with teachers, aides, and other service providers to integrate physical therapy strategies into daily routines.
  • Equipment and Accessibility
    Assess and recommend adaptive equipment and environmental modifications to support student access to their curriculum and educational environment.
PT
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333 South Beaudry Avenue
17th Floor
Los Angeles, CA 90017

213-241-6200