Starting a school-based therapy role is exciting, but we know that it’s also a bit of a transition. New processes, documentation, and educational requirements all come with new roles.
Even experienced clinicians often find that working in a school setting is different than providing support in outpatient clinics, hospitals, rehab, or in adult treatment settings.
That's why we created our School-Based Academy (SBA): to help Kelly Pediatric Therapy providers build confidence in your first year of school-based practice. Through practical training, experienced mentorship, and ongoing support, we help you feel prepared before you step into your school-based assignment
School-based providers are part of an educational team that includes teachers, administrators, families, and other specialists. Together, they support students' participation and success in the classroom while they work toward educational goals.
That means learning new documentation requirements, shifting into academic-based goal setting, understanding special education timelines, participating in Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings, and collaborating with members of a student's support team.
School-based providers also learn how to balance therapy with classroom routines, communicate effectively with educators and families, and adapt their approach to fit the school environment. It's rewarding work, but it does come with responsibilities that may be unfamiliar, even for experienced clinicians. That’s where having the right guidance can make all the difference.
School-Based Academy was created to help providers feel prepared before they begin working in schools.
Whether you're new to the profession, transitioning from another clinical setting, or returning to school-based practice after time away, the Academy provides practical knowledge you can apply from your first day.
The program is offered throughout the school year and includes live virtual training sessions led by experienced clinical directors who understand the realities of school-based practice. Providers also have access to on-demand learning resources and opportunities to connect with experienced mentors within their discipline.
Instead of learning everything through trial and error, you'll begin your assignment with a better understanding of what to expect, where to find answers, and how to navigate the unique aspects of working in schools.
School-Based Academy focuses on the practical knowledge providers use every day in school-based practice. Rather than simply learning the concepts, you'll build the confidence to put them into practice when you begin working with students.
Topics that you’ll learn include the following:
What’s more, School-Based Academy includes learning experiences for both related services providers and behavior providers. While the goal is the same, to help you feel confident in school-based practice, the training is tailored to each role's responsibilities.
School-Based Academy includes a shared foundation in school-based practice, along with training tailored to your specific role.
If you're an occupational therapist, physical therapist, or speech-language pathologist, you'll focus on topics like:
If you support students in a behavioral health role, your training includes topics such as:
No matter your role, School-Based Academy is designed to help you begin your assignment feeling prepared, supported, and confident.
Learning doesn't stop after onboarding, and it’s not just for the beginning of your career.
Eligible related services providers can earn continuing education units (CEUs) by completing School-Based Academy.
In addition to earning CEUs, you'll continue building the knowledge and confidence needed to navigate school-based practice throughout your first year. Our goal is to help you spend less time thinking about whether you're doing things correctly and more time focusing on supporting students and collaborating with your team.
Learn more about our SBA from one of our clinical directors:
School-Based Academy is available to Kelly Pediatric Therapy providers preparing for school-based assignments.
Once you join Kelly Pediatric Therapy, we'll provide information about upcoming School-Based Academy sessions, registration, and participation. Because the program is offered virtually, it's easy to join from wherever you're located and begin building the skills and confidence you'll use throughout your first year in a school-based role.
At Kelly Pediatric Therapy, our mission is to support dedicated therapists like you, so you can make a difference for children and families in our schools, clinics, and communities. We offer resources, mentorship, and real opportunities for career growth—plus a true work-life balance. Learn more about all the ways we support our therapists.
Connect with our recruiters today to learn how you can advance your career—and make every hour you spend at work more meaningful.
Explore our PT, OT, SLP, and behavioral health opportunities in schools across the country.