Occupational and Physical Therapy (OT/PT) services for students with disabilities are required by federal laws, including Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1974, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act.  Currently, in a school year the district serves approximately 1,360 students with disabilities requiring OT/PT services. 

Nationally, there is a shortage of occupational and physical therapists. Due to that shortage and the need to provide services to our students with disabilities, the district must contract with outside agencies.  We continue to work on the retention/recruitment of our direct-hire therapy personnel; thus, hopefully minimizing the need for contracted personnel.

Twenty-four proposals were received and evaluated by a committee of district personnel. The committee determined that three firms should be recommended for award. The highest-ranked firm will have the first right of refusal to provide the requested therapists. If the highest-ranked firm cannot provide the therapists, the next highest-ranked firm will be contacted until staffing is completed. The initial term of this contract will be for one year, beginning July 1, 2016, with 1-year renewals for 4 years. All prices shall be firm against any increase for at least one year from effective date of this contract. The Superintendent is authorized to approve any renewals, per the terms of the specifications.