Health Science Academy

Physical Therapy

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Transforming Compassion into Patient Care

The Physical Therapy program prepares students for careers in rehabilitation and healthcare through hands-on clinical experiences, medical knowledge, and patient-centered care. Students develop the technical skills needed to assist patients recovering from injuries and illnesses while learning the importance of communication, professionalism, and empathy.

Working with real equipment and simulated patients, students gain practical experience in physical therapy techniques, patient assessment, and rehabilitation exercises while building a strong foundation for future healthcare careers.

Course Sequence

Students progress through a four-year sequence that builds both technical skills and business knowledge.

9th Grade

10th Grade

11th Grade

12th Grade

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Certifications

Students earn industry-recognized credentials that prepare them for careers in rehabilitation and healthcare.

Students may earn the following certifications through the program:

  • Physical Therapy/Rehabilitation Aide
  • Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA)
  • CPR Certification
  • OSHA Certification

Additional opportunities include:

  • Articulation agreement with Miami Dade College's Physical Therapist Assistant Program, allowing students to earn 3 college credits toward the PTA program.
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"I competed in HOSA for Mental Health Promotion for two years. I was nervous at first, but I placed both times and even got first place my second year. It was a great experience."

- Abril Salto (12th grade)

Competitions and Achievements

Students in the Physical Therapy program actively participate in HOSA competitions while earning valuable certifications and healthcare experience.

Achievements include:

  • HOSA Regional, State, and International competition winners
  • Partnership with Miami Dade College Physical Therapist Assistant Program
  • Partnership with Keiser University Physical Therapist Assistant Program

Career Pathways

The Physical Therapy program prepares students for careers across rehabilitation and healthcare.

Possible pathways include:

  • Rehabilitation Aide
  • Therapy Technician
  • Physical Therapist Assistant
  • Doctor of Physical Therapy

Students also develop transferable skills including communication, leadership, critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and patient-centered care.

Student Voices

Alejandro Gomez

(12th grade)

"The physical aspect really stands out. We actually treat each other like patients, so it's a very hands-on and active class."

Jose Ochoa

(12th grade)

"Everyone becomes really connected, and we build strong chemistry while working on projects and practicing together."

Abril Salto

(12th grade)

"We use real equipment, so it feels like what it would actually be like to be a physical therapist."

Alyssa Acosta

(12th grade)

"My teacher has real experience in physical therapy, so she truly knows what she's teaching."

Elizabet Roman

(12th grade)

“We have a strong bond with each other. Since the work is hands-on and we all get along, it makes the class productive and fun."

Learning Through Real Experience

Students regularly practice rehabilitation techniques, patient assessments, and clinical skills through hands-on labs and certification preparation.

Students participate in practical labs that simulate real healthcare settings while preparing for professional certifications and HOSA competitions.

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"Assignments involving range of motion and muscle exercises were the most challenging because they require real hands-on practice instead of just looking things up."

- Jose Ochoa (12th grade)

"Balancing practical exams while studying for certification tests taught me the importance of time management."

- Abril Salto (12th grade)

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Teacher Perspective
Ms. Tammy Diaz

"Our mission is to prepare passionate, compassionate, and skilled health professionals through academic rigor and lifelong learning."

Students gain both clinical and professional skills, including:

  • Patient handling and rehabilitation techniques
  • Range of motion and posture assessments
  • Vital signs and infection control
  • Medical terminology and patient documentation
  • Communication and professionalism
  • Critical thinking and clinical decision-making

Successful students also develop empathy, resilience, adaptability, ethical integrity, and strong time management while preparing for healthcare careers.

The program prepares students for college and careers through rigorous coursework, industry certifications, college credit opportunities, HOSA participation, internships, and real-world clinical experiences.

Advice for Future Students

Students demonstrate that learning technical skills today can provide valuable opportunities for the future.

Alejandro Gomez

"Pay attention, read the material, and practice the physical skills at home so you can really understand what you're learning."

Jose Ochoa

"Be patient and be ready to work hard."

Abril Salto

"Take the class seriously and stay on top of your work."

Alyssa Acosta

"It's a fun and hands-on academy that gives you real insight into healthcare and helps you figure out what you want to do."

Elizabet Roman

"Go for it. It can be a lot of work, but it's fun, hands-on, and not as complicated as it seems once you get used to it."

Program Legacy

The Physical Therapy program has built a reputation for preparing compassionate and highly skilled future healthcare professionals through hands-on learning, leadership, and academic excellence.

As the only licensed physical therapist teaching within Miami-Dade County Public Schools, Mrs. Diaz has led the program since 1999, helping students earn certifications, college credit opportunities, and competitive recognition while preparing them for successful careers throughout the healthcare industry.

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