Occupational and Physical Therapy

OUR COMMITMENT

Dallas ISD occupational therapists and physical therapists work collaboratively with students, families, educators, administrators, and other related service providers to support meaningful participation in the educational environment. Through evidence-based practices, collaborative problem-solving, and individualized supports, our goal is to promote student independence, accessibility, participation, and educational success. 

What is Occupational Therapy (OT)? 

Occupational therapists support students in developing the functional skills needed to participate successfully in educational activities and school routines. Services may include evaluation, consultation, direct intervention, collaboration with school staff and families, recommendations for accommodations, and support with adaptive equipment. 

School-based occupational therapy may address: 

• Fine motor skills 

• Visual-motor integration 

• Handwriting and written work 

• Functional classroom participation 

• Self-care skills necessary during the school day 

• Sensory processing needs that impact educational performance 

• Environmental adaptations and classroom accommodations 

• Use of adaptive equipment and assistive technology 

What is Physical Therapy (PT)? 

Physical therapists support students in accessing and safely participating in their educational environment. Services focus on improving functional mobility and physical access necessary for successful participation in school activities. 

School-based physical therapy may address: 

• Functional mobility throughout the school environment 

• Gross motor skills that impact educational participation 

• Balance, strength, endurance, and coordination 

• Positioning and seating 

• Safe transfers and movement within the school setting 

• Access to classrooms, playgrounds, cafeterias, and other school environments 

• Recommendations for adaptive equipment and mobility devices 

• Environmental modifications that promote student access and independence 

 

What Dallas ISD Provides:  

Through collaboration with campus staff, the Dallas ISD Special Services Department provides targeted, student-centered support that prepares students with disabilities for success in school and beyond. 

Occupational therapy (OT) and physical therapy (PT) are related services provided under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Related services are provided when determined by the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee to be necessary for a student with a disability to benefit from special education and make meaningful progress toward their individualized education program (IEP) goals. 

Unlike therapy provided in medical or clinical settings, school-based OT and PT services are educationally relevant and are designed to support a student's access, participation, and progress within the educational environment. Services focus on helping students successfully engage in school routines, classroom activities, and other educational opportunities while promoting independence in the least restrictive environment. participate successfully in educational activities and school routines. Services may include evaluation, consultation, direct intervention, collaboration with school staff and families, recommendations for accommodations, and support with adaptive equipment.  

Service Delivery 

Occupational therapy and physical therapy services are individualized based on each student's educational needs and IEP. Services may be provided through a variety of service delivery models, including: 

• Direct intervention with the student 

• Consultation with teachers, families, and school staff 

• Collaborative support within the classroom or other educational settings 

• Monitoring student progress and educational access 

• Recommendations for accommodations, modifications, adaptive equipment, and environmental supports 

The frequency, duration, and location of services are determined by the ARD Committee based on the student's individual educational needs. 

Eligibility and Discontinuation of Services 

Eligibility for occupational therapy and physical therapy is determined through a comprehensive evaluation and ARD Committee decision. A medical diagnosis alone does not qualify a student for school-based OT or PT services. Services must be educationally necessary for the student to benefit from special education and make progress toward their IEP goals. 

Related services may be discontinued when: 

• The student has achieved the functional skills necessary to access and participate in the educational environment. 

• Skills have been successfully incorporated into daily school routines. 

• Appropriate accommodations, supports, or equipment allow the student to participate without direct OT or PT services. 

• The student no longer requires occupational therapy or physical therapy to make meaningful progress toward their IEP goals.