Program Description
The Innovations Program will continue in 2026 under its new name, the Schools-Based Precon. The program will be offered as a one-day preconference course in conjunction with Annual Conference in St. Louis.
For more information about the 2026 Annual Conference please click here.
About the Innovations (Schools-Based Precon) Program:
The Innovations in School-Based Physical Therapy Practice Conference (Innovations) highlights advanced practice issues and foundational information for school-based practice. Sessions will provide information on decision-making and educationally relevant physical therapy services to support educational programs for students with disabilities. Nationally recognized speakers will address federal laws, assessment, service provision, specific student populations, and innovations in practice.
Outcome expectations of the Innovations (Schools-Based Precon):
- Understand foundational federal laws and regulations for ensuring a free and appropriate public education (FAPE), including provision of required related services for students with disabilities under IDEA and Section 504.
- Apply evidence and data to individualize and make appropriate decisions regarding evaluation, outcome measures, models of service delivery, individualization, advocacy, and evidence-informed interventions.
- Apply knowledge gained to influence and advocate for appropriate services, staffing, physical activity and fitness, collaboration across practice settings, adequate supports and self-determination for students with disabilities.
- Incorporate evidenced-informed evaluation and intervention for students with complex disability.
- Describe the role of school-based physical therapy in provision of assistive technology, individualized transportation services, and to prepare students and their families for adulthood through post-school transition.