Onward Education is a specialized education staffing and talent solutions company that helps educators, therapists, and school health professionals find top jobs with the nation's top schools. We're partnering with an exceptional school district in Cook County, Illinois searching for a a compassionate part-time Physical Therapist for the extended 2026 school year.

In this role, you will support middle school students utilizing a 2-day per week schedule by evaluating physical and functional needs, developing individualized treatment plans, and delivering school-based therapy services that promote mobility, access to education, and overall student success within the school environment. This is an excellent opportunity to connect with a wonderful new district over the summer in a part-time context.

Position Details:

• Location: In Person in Cook County, IL (no hybrid or remote options available)
• Start Date: July 6, 2026
• End Date: July 30, 2026
• Schedule: 2 days per week, either Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday
• Grade Levels: Various, K-12

• Evaluate students of all ages to determine physical therapy needs related to educational access and participation.
• Develop and implement individualized physical therapy treatment plans aligned with IEP goals.
• Provide direct therapy services in individual and group settings within the school environment.
• Collaborate with teachers, special education staff, and related service providers to support student progress.
• Monitor, document, and report student progress toward goals in compliance with state and district requirements.
• Participate in IEP meetings and contribute professional recommendations to the educational team.
• Ensure therapy services comply with all federal, state, and district regulations and best practices.

• Master's or Doctorate degree in Physical Therapy from an accredited program.
• Active Illinois Physical Therapist license.
• Professional Educator License (PEL) from the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) with a Physical Therapist endorsement.
• Experience working with pediatric or school-aged populations preferred.
• Knowledge of special education laws, IEP processes, and school-based therapy practices.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary school team.

• Competitive pay and benefits package.
• Access to a wide network of schools and districts for diverse placement options.
• Streamlined hiring process to get you started quickly.
• Ongoing communication and advocacy throughout your placement.
• Personalized support from dedicated recruiting professionals.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.

Why Apply?
If you're passionate about creating positive change and supporting students' success, this is the opportunity for you! Work alongside a dedicated team of educators and support staff, helping students reach their full potential.

Ready to join us? Apply today - we can't wait to hear from you!

Employer Details:

• Onward Search is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to a policy of non-discrimination in an employment with regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status or any other classification protected by federal, state and local laws and ordinances. Candidates must be at least 18 years old to be considered for employment. EOE/M/F/D/V/SO.
• In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire.
• Onward Search is unable to support 1099 / Corp-to-Corp or Independent Contractor arrangements at this time. All freelancers will be paid as W2 employees.
• Onward Search offers medical, dental, vision benefits, as well as a 401k program, for all eligible full time temporary assignments.
• Onward Search is a drug-free workplace.
• Onward Search is a nationwide staffing agency and talent solutions provider specializing in creative, marketing and technology. Our clients are continuously turning to us to fill their open positions. Therefore, there is no application deadline for this position, as we are seeking candidates for this type of role across all our clients on an ongoing basis.