About Our Academy

At Muskegon Montessori Academy for Environmental Change (MMAEC), we do education differently! Learning may begin in the classroom, but our students move from desks to dirt, planting seeds in soil, and tending to our gardens. Science and nature guide children at MMAEC to experience learning. We implement the Montessori Method to allow each child to empower and educate themselves to understand their own learning patterns. MMAEC knows that teachers are the heart of the school and are surrounded by a support system that is committed to the success of every child.

Qualities of a Success Candidate:

• A genuine love for working with children and a strong commitment to their holistic development. They should prioritize the child's individuality, independence, and self-directed learning, fostering an environment that supports these values.
• The ability to guide children through their learning journey with patience, allowing them to explore and make discoveries at their own pace. They should also be flexible in adjusting their teaching methods to meet the unique needs of each child.
• Strong interpersonal skills, fostering positive relationships with children, parents and other staff members. They should be able to work collaboratively, promoting a harmonious learning environment.

About the role

As our Physical Therapist, you will provide direct and consultative services that empower students to engage more fully in school activities and achieve their academic goals. To empower students with diverse needs to achieve their fullest potential in their academic and daily life pursuits. Conduct comprehensive assessments that aspire to conduct each student's unique challenges and strengths, laying the foundation for tailored intervention plans that foster independence and skill development. Their aim is to collaborate closely with educators, parents, and support staff to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment where students can thrive.

This is a shared role between Three Oaks Public School Academy and Muskegon Montessori Academy for Environmental Change (1-2 hours per week).

What you'll do

Instruction, Assessment & Support

• Assesses students using appropriate evaluation tools, including standardized tests, clinical observations, and review of medical and educational reports, to determine the need for a therapy intervention plan.
• Develop and implement individualized therapy plans based on IEPs and student goals
• Provides consultation with the classroom teacher, other school staff, and building administrators regarding student's optional functions in the school environment.
• Maintains clinical and administrative records in accordance with MARSE and school board policy.

IEP Development & Compliance

• Participate in special education team meetings and develop appropriate IEP goals
• Ensure accurate documentation of services, progress, and Medicaid-compliant billing
• Use designated special education management systems to track and report services

Collaboration & Communication

• Foster strong partnerships with teachers, support staff, administrators, and families
• Provide training and strategies to classroom teams to promote student independence
• Travel between school sites as scheduled to provide consistent support at each location (if needed)

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

• Master's degree in Physical Therapy
• Valid Michigan licensure (PT)
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Physical therapy case reporting and writing skills experience
• Ability to maintain confidentiality

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in school-based or pediatric physical therapy
• Familiarity with IEP processes, sensory integration, and assistive technology
• Strong documentation and organizational skills
• A passion for supporting diverse learners in inclusive environments

About Choice Schools Associates

Muskegon Montessori for Environmental Change is part of the Choice Schools Community. As a comprehensive education service provider, Choice Schools offers a student-centered approach to tailored school operations support. Much like a superintendent's office, Choice Schools provides invaluable assistance in various crucial areas, including instruction, professional development, curriculum, human resources, finance, compliance, communications, and enrollment. By being a part of the Choice Schools Environmental Model, Muskegon Montessori for Environmental Change is a vibrant community of learning, comprised of multiple other outstanding environmental schools within the state. The Environmental Model will provide you with the support and collaboration of a large district while serving at a tight-knit community school in your area.