Special Education Teaching

Following is everything you need to know about a career as a special education teacher with lots of details. As a first step, take a look at some of the following jobs, which are real jobs with real employers. You will be able to see the very real job career requirements for employers who are actively hiring. The link will open in a new tab so that you can come back to this page to continue reading about the career: Top 3 Special Education Teacher Jobs. North Shore Center for Speech, Language & Swallowing Disorders - Westbury, NY Other Early Intervention providers are welcome to apply.

• Special Education Teaching Certificate
• Special Education Teaching Materials

North Shore Center for Speech, Language & Swallowing Disorders (NSC) is an Equal. E.L. Haynes Public Charter School - Washington, DC E.L. Haynes is named for Dr. Euphemia Lofton Haynes - the first African-American woman to receive a doctorate in mathematics and a DC public school.

EBS Healthcare - Chicago, IL As the leading provider of special education and therapy services for children for more than 30 years, EBS knows exactly what teachers need to make. What Special Education Teachers Do Special education teachers work with students who have a wide range of learning, mental, emotional, and physical disabilities. They adapt general education lessons and teach various subjects, such as reading, writing, and math, to students with mild and moderate disabilities.

They also teach basic skills, such as literacy and communication techniques, to students with severe disabilities. Work Environment for Special Education Teachers Special education teachers hold about 439,300 jobs. Employment in the detailed occupations that make up special education teachers is distributed as follows: Special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school 188,900 Special education teachers, secondary school 131,900 Special education teachers, middle school 89,300 Special education teachers, preschool 29,200 The largest employers of special education teachers are as follows: Elementary and secondary schools; local 86% Elementary and secondary schools; private 7 A few work with students in residential facilities, hospitals, and the students' homes. They may travel to these locations.

Some teachers work with infants and toddlers at the child's home. They also teach the child's parents methods and ways to help the child develop skills. Helping students with disabilities can be highly rewarding. It also can be quite stressful—emotionally demanding and physically draining. Special Education Teacher Work Schedules Special education teachers typically work during school hours. They also use that time to grade papers, update students' records, and prepare lessons. They may meet with parents, students, and other teachers before and after classes.

Many work the traditional 10-month school year and have a 2-month break during the summer. They also have a short midwinter break. Some teachers may work for summer programs. Teachers in districts with a year-round schedule typically work 9 weeks in a row and then are on break for 3 weeks. How to Become a Special Education Teacher Get the education you need: Special education teachers in public schools are required to have at least a bachelor's degree and a state-issued certification or license.

Private schools typically require teachers to have a bachelor's degree, but the teachers are not required to be licensed or certified. For information about teacher preparation programs and certification requirements, visit Teach.org or contact your state's board of education. Education for Special Education Teachers All states require special education teachers in public schools to have at least a bachelor's degree. Some require teachers to earn a degree specifically in special education. Others allow them to major in elementary education or a content area, such as math or science, and pursue a minor in special education. In a program leading to a bachelor's degree in special education, prospective teachers learn about the different types of disabilities and how to present information so that students will understand. Programs typically include a student-teaching program, in which they work with a mentor teacher and get experience teaching students in a classroom setting.

To become fully certified, some states require special education teachers to complete a master's degree in special education after obtaining a job. Teachers in private schools do not need to meet state requirements. However, private schools may prefer to hire teachers who have at least a bachelor's degree in special education. Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations for Special Education Teachers All states require teachers in public schools to be licensed in the specific grade level that they teach.

A license frequently is referred to as a certification. Those who teach in private schools typically do not need to be licensed. Requirements for certification or licensure can vary by state but generally involve the following:. A bachelor's degree with a minimum grade point average. Completion of a teacher preparation program and supervised experience in teaching, which is typically gained through student teaching. Passing a background check.

Passing a general teaching certification test, as well as a test that demonstrates knowledge of the subject the candidate will teach. Many states offer general certification or licenses in special education that allow teachers to work with students with a variety of disabilities. Others offer licenses or endorsements based on a disability-specific category, such as autism or behavior disorders.

Some states allow special education teachers to transfer their licenses from another state. Other states require even an experienced teacher to pass their state's licensing requirements.

All states offer an alternative route to certification or licensure for people who already have a bachelor's degree. Some alternative certification programs allow candidates to begin teaching immediately, under the close supervision of an experienced teacher. These alternative programs cover teaching methods and child development. Candidates are awarded full certification after they complete the program. Other alternative programs require prospective teachers to take classes in education before they can start to teach.

Teachers may be awarded a master's degree after completing either type of program. Advancement for Special Education Teachers Experienced teachers can advance to become mentors or lead teachers who help less experienced teachers improve their teaching skills. Teachers may become,. These positions generally require additional education, an advanced degree, or certification. An advanced degree in education administration or leadership may be helpful.

Important Qualities for Special Education Teachers Communication skills. Special education teachers discuss students' needs and performances with general education teachers, parents, and administrators. They also explain difficult concepts in terms that students with learning disabilities can understand. Critical-thinking skills. Special education teachers assess students' progress and use that information to adapt lessons to help them learn. Interpersonal skills.

Special education teachers work regularly with general education teachers, school counselors, administrators, and parents to develop Individualized Education Programs. As a result, they need to be able to build positive working relationships. Working with students with special needs and different abilities can be difficult. Special education teachers should be patient with each student, because some may need the instruction given aloud, at a slower pace, or in writing. Special education teachers must develop different ways to present information in a manner that meets the needs of their students. They also help general education teachers adapt their lessons to the needs of students with disabilities.

Calculate The median annual wage for special education teachers is $57,910. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $37,760, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $93,090. Median annual wages for special education teachers are as follows: Special education teachers, secondary school $59,700 Special education teachers, middle school 58,560 Special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school 57,040 Special education teachers, preschool 52,460 The median annual wages for special education teachers in the top industries in which they work are as follows: Elementary and secondary schools; local $58,670 Elementary and secondary schools; private 50,440 Special education teachers typically work during school hours.

They also use that time to grade papers, update students' records, and prepare lessons. They may meet with parents, students, and other teachers before and after classes. Many work the traditional 10-month school year and have a 2-month break during the summer. They also have a short midwinter break. Some teachers may work for summer programs. Teachers in districts with a year-round schedule typically work 9 weeks in a row and then are on break for 3 weeks. Union Membership for Special Education Teachers Most special education teachers belong to a union.

Job Outlook for Special Education Teachers Overall employment of special education teachers is projected to grow 8 percent over the next ten years, about as fast as the average for all occupations. The employment growth of special education teachers will vary by type of institution. (See table below.) However, overall demand will be driven by school enrollment and the need for special education services. Enrollment in special education programs has increased slightly in the past couple of years. Demand for special education services and teachers should rise as children with disabilities are increasingly being identified earlier and enrolled into special education programs. Federal laws require free education for students with disabilities, and every state must maintain the same level of financial support for special education every year.

This mandate provides special education programs with consistent funding and reduces the threat of employment layoffs due to state or federal budget constraints. However, employment growth may depend on increases in funding.

Job Prospects for Special Education Teachers Teaching students with disabilities can be quite stressful, emotionally demanding, and physically draining. As a result, many schools have difficulties recruiting and retaining special education teachers. Accordingly, special education teachers are expected to have good job opportunities, which will stem from the need to replace teachers who leave the occupation each year. Job opportunities also may be better in certain specialties, such as those requiring experience with early childhood intervention and skills in working with students who have autism. Employment projections data for Special Education Teachers, 2016-26 Occupational Title Employment, 2016 Projected Employment, 2026 Change, 2016-26 Percent Numeric Special education teachers 439,300 472,600 8 33,300 Special education teachers, preschool 29,200 32,500 11 3,300 Special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school 188,900 202,800 7 13,900 Special education teachers, middle school 89,300 95,700 7 6,300 Special education teachers, secondary school 131,900 141,600 7 9,700. Careers Related to Special Education Teachers Career and technical education teachers instruct students in various technical and vocational subjects, such as auto repair, healthcare, and culinary arts.

They teach academic and technical content to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to enter an occupation. Childcare workers attend to the basic needs of children, such as dressing, bathing, feeding, and overseeing play. They may help younger children prepare for kindergarten or assist older children with homework. High school teachers help prepare students for life after graduation. They teach academic lessons and various skills that students will need to attend college and to enter the job market. Instructional coordinators oversee school curriculums and teaching standards.

They develop instructional material, coordinate its implementation with teachers and principals, and assess its effectiveness. Kindergarten and elementary school teachers instruct young students in basic subjects, such as math and reading, in order to prepare them for future schooling. Middle school teachers educate students, typically in sixth through eighth grades.

They help students build on the fundamentals they learned in elementary school and prepare them for the more difficult curriculum they will face in high school. Occupational therapists treat injured, ill, or disabled patients through the therapeutic use of everyday activities. They help these patients develop, recover, improve, as well as maintain the skills needed for daily living and working. Preschool teachers educate and care for children younger than age 5 who have not yet entered kindergarten.

They teach language, motor, and social skills to young children. Elementary, middle, and high school principals manage all school operations, including daily school activities. They coordinate curriculums, oversee teachers and other school staff, and provide a safe and productive learning environment for students.

Recreational therapists plan, direct, and coordinate recreation-based treatment programs for people with disabilities, injuries, or illnesses. These therapists use a variety of modalities, including arts and crafts; drama, music, and dance; sports and games; aquatics; and community outings to help maintain or improve a patient's physical, social, and emotional well-being. Social workers help people solve and cope with problems in their everyday lives. Clinical social workers also diagnose and treat mental, behavioral, and emotional issues.

Teacher assistants work under a teacher's supervision to give students additional attention and instruction.Some content used by permission of the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. Explore more careers:.

Please enable javascript to play this video. Quick Facts: Special Education Teachers $58,980 per year Bachelor's degree None None 439,300 8% (As fast as average) 33,300 Special education teachers work with students who have a wide range of learning, mental, emotional, and physical disabilities. They adapt general education lessons and teach various subjects, such as reading, writing, and math, to students with mild and moderate disabilities. They also teach basic skills, such as literacy and communication techniques, to students with severe disabilities. Most special education teachers work in public schools, teaching students from preschool to high school. Others work in private schools, childcare services, and other institutions.

Many work the traditional 10-month school year, but some work year round. Special education teachers in public schools are required to have a bachelor’s degree and a state-issued certification or license. Teachers in private schools typically need a bachelor’s degree, but may not be required to have a state license or certification.

The median annual wage for special education teachers was $58,980 in May 2017. Overall employment of special education teachers is projected to grow 8 percent from 2016 to 2026, about as fast as the average for all occupations. School enrollment and the demand for special education services should drive employment growth. Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for special education teachers. Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of special education teachers with similar occupations. Learn more about special education teachers by visiting additional resources, including O.NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations. Special education teachers may teach students in small groups or on a one-on-one basis.

Special education teachers work with students who have a wide range of learning, mental, emotional, and physical disabilities. They adapt general education lessons and teach various subjects, such as reading, writing, and math, to students with mild and moderate disabilities. They also teach basic skills, such as literacy and communication techniques, to students with severe disabilities.

Special education teachers work with students from preschool to high school. Special education teachers held about 439,300 jobs in 2016.

Employment in the detailed occupations that make up special education teachers was distributed as follows: Special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school 188,900 Special education teachers, secondary school 131,900 Special education teachers, middle school 89,300 Special education teachers, preschool 29,200 The largest employers of special education teachers were as follows: Elementary and secondary schools; local 86% Elementary and secondary schools; private 7 A few work with students in residential facilities, hospitals, and the students’ homes. They may travel to these locations.

Some teachers work with infants and toddlers at the child’s home. They also teach the child’s parents methods and ways to help the child develop skills. Helping students with disabilities can be highly rewarding. It also can be quite stressful—emotionally demanding and physically draining. Work Schedules Special education teachers typically work during school hours. They also use that time to grade papers, update students’ records, and prepare lessons.

They may meet with parents, students, and other teachers before and after classes. Many work the traditional 10-month school year and have a 2-month break during the summer.

They also have a short midwinter break. Some teachers may work for summer programs. Teachers in districts with a year-round schedule typically work 9 weeks in a row and then are on break for 3 weeks.

Special education teachers need to be able to explain concepts in terms students with learning disabilities can understand. Special education teachers in public schools are required to have at least a bachelor’s degree and a state-issued certification or license. Private schools typically require teachers to have a bachelor’s degree, but the teachers are not required to be licensed or certified. For information about teacher preparation programs and certification requirements, visit or contact your state’s board of education. Education All states require special education teachers in public schools to have at least a bachelor’s degree. Some require teachers to earn a degree specifically in special education. Others allow them to major in elementary education or a content area, such as math or science, and pursue a minor in special education.

In a program leading to a bachelor’s degree in special education, prospective teachers learn about the different types of disabilities and how to present information so that students will understand. Programs typically include a student-teaching program, in which they work with a mentor teacher and get experience teaching students in a classroom setting. To become fully certified, some states require special education teachers to complete a master’s degree in special education after obtaining a job. Teachers in private schools do not need to meet state requirements. However, private schools may prefer to hire teachers who have at least a bachelor’s degree in special education. Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations All states require teachers in public schools to be licensed in the specific grade level that they teach. A license frequently is referred to as a certification.

Those who teach in private schools typically do not need to be licensed. Requirements for certification or licensure can vary by state but generally involve the following:. A bachelor’s degree with a minimum grade point average. Completion of a teacher preparation program and supervised experience in teaching, which is typically gained through student teaching. Passing a background check. Passing a general teaching certification test, as well as a test that demonstrates knowledge of the subject the candidate will teach. Many states offer general certification or licenses in special education that allow teachers to work with students with a variety of disabilities.

Others offer licenses or endorsements based on a disability-specific category, such as autism or behavior disorders. Some states allow special education teachers to transfer their licenses from another state. Other states require even an experienced teacher to pass their state’s licensing requirements. All states offer an alternative route to certification or licensure for people who already have a bachelor’s degree. Some alternative certification programs allow candidates to begin teaching immediately, under the close supervision of an experienced teacher. These alternative programs cover teaching methods and child development.

Candidates are awarded full certification after they complete the program. Other alternative programs require prospective teachers to take classes in education before they can start to teach. Teachers may be awarded a master’s degree after completing either type of program.

Advancement Experienced teachers can advance to become mentors or lead teachers who help less experienced teachers improve their teaching skills. Teachers may become,. These positions generally require additional education, an advanced degree, or certification. An advanced degree in education administration or leadership may be helpful. Important Qualities Communication skills.

Special education teachers discuss students’ needs and performances with general education teachers, parents, and administrators. They also explain difficult concepts in terms that students with learning disabilities can understand. Critical-thinking skills. Special education teachers assess students’ progress and use that information to adapt lessons to help them learn.

Interpersonal skills. Special education teachers work regularly with general education teachers, school counselors, administrators, and parents to develop Individualized Education Programs. As a result, they need to be able to build positive working relationships.

Working with students with special needs and different abilities can be difficult. Special education teachers should be patient with each student, because some may need the instruction given aloud, at a slower pace, or in writing. Special education teachers must develop different ways to present information in a manner that meets the needs of their students. They also help general education teachers adapt their lessons to the needs of students with disabilities. Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics The median annual wage for special education teachers was $58,980 in May 2017. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less.

The lowest 10 percent earned less than $38,660, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $95,320. Median annual wages for special education teachers in May 2017 were as follows: Special education teachers, secondary school $60,180 Special education teachers, middle school 59,510 Special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school 58,600 Special education teachers, preschool 53,640 In May 2017, the median annual wages for special education teachers in the top industries in which they worked were as follows: Elementary and secondary schools; local $59,720 Elementary and secondary schools; private 51,300 Special education teachers typically work during school hours.

Special Education Teaching Certificate

They also use that time to grade papers, update students’ records, and prepare lessons. They may meet with parents, students, and other teachers before and after classes.

Many work the traditional 10-month school year and have a 2-month break during the summer. They also have a short midwinter break.

Some teachers may work for summer programs. Teachers in districts with a year-round schedule typically work 9 weeks in a row and then are on break for 3 weeks. Union Membership Most special education teachers belonged to a union in 2016.

Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program Overall employment of special education teachers is projected to grow 8 percent from 2016 to 2026, about as fast as the average for all occupations. The employment growth of special education teachers will vary by type of institution. (See table below.) However, overall demand will be driven by school enrollment and the need for special education services. Enrollment in special education programs has increased slightly in the past couple of years.

Special Education Teaching Materials

Demand for special education services and teachers should rise as children with disabilities are increasingly being identified earlier and enrolled into special education programs. Federal laws require free education for students with disabilities, and every state must maintain the same level of financial support for special education every year. This mandate provides special education programs with consistent funding and reduces the threat of employment layoffs due to state or federal budget constraints. However, employment growth may depend on increases in funding.

Job Prospects Teaching students with disabilities can be quite stressful, emotionally demanding, and physically draining. As a result, many schools have difficulties recruiting and retaining special education teachers.

Accordingly, special education teachers are expected to have good job opportunities, which will stem from the need to replace teachers who leave the occupation each year. Job opportunities also may be better in certain specialties, such as those requiring experience with early childhood intervention and skills in working with students who have autism. Employment projections data for special education teachers, 2016-26 Occupational Title SOC Code Employment, 2016 Projected Employment, 2026 Change, 2016-26 Employment by Industry Percent Numeric SOURCE: U.S.

Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program Special education teachers — 439,300 472,600 8 33,300 — Special education teachers, preschool 25-2051 29,200 32,500 11 3,300 Special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school 25-2052 188,900 202,800 7 13,900 Special education teachers, middle school 25-2053 89,300 95,700 7 6,300 Special education teachers, secondary school 25-2054 131,900 141,600 7 9,700. State & Area Data Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) The (OES) program produces employment and wage estimates annually for over 800 occupations.

These estimates are available for the nation as a whole, for individual states, and for metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas. The link(s) below go to OES data maps for employment and wages by state and area. Projections Central Occupational employment projections are developed for all states by Labor Market Information (LMI) or individual state Employment Projections offices. All state projections data are available at. Information on this site allows projected employment growth for an occupation to be compared among states or to be compared within one state. In addition, states may produce projections for areas; there are links to each state’s websites where these data may be retrieved. CareerOneStop CareerOneStop includes hundreds of with data available by state and metro area.

There are links in the left-hand side menu to compare occupational employment by state and occupational wages by local area or metro area. There is also a to search for wages by zip code. Similar Occupations This table shows a list of occupations with job duties that are similar to those of special education teachers. Occupation Job Duties ENTRY-LEVEL EDUCATION 2017 MEDIAN PAY Career and technical education teachers instruct students in various technical and vocational subjects, such as auto repair, healthcare, and culinary arts.

They teach academic and technical content to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to enter an occupation. Bachelor's degree $55,240 Childcare workers attend to the basic needs of children, such as dressing, bathing, feeding, and overseeing play. They may help younger children prepare for kindergarten or assist older children with homework.

High school diploma or equivalent $22,290 Elementary, middle, and high school principals manage all school operations, including daily school activities. They coordinate curriculums, oversee teachers and other school staff, and provide a safe and productive learning environment for students. Master's degree $94,390 High school teachers help prepare students for life after graduation. They teach academic lessons and various skills that students will need to attend college and to enter the job market. Bachelor's degree $59,170 Instructional coordinators oversee school curriculums and teaching standards. They develop instructional material, coordinate its implementation with teachers and principals, and assess its effectiveness. Master's degree $63,750 Kindergarten and elementary school teachers instruct young students in basic subjects, such as math and reading, in order to prepare them for future schooling.

Bachelor's degree $56,900 Middle school teachers educate students, typically in sixth through eighth grades. They help students build on the fundamentals they learned in elementary school and prepare them for the more difficult curriculum they will face in high school.

Bachelor's degree $57,720 Occupational therapists treat injured, ill, or disabled patients through the therapeutic use of everyday activities. They help these patients develop, recover, improve, as well as maintain the skills needed for daily living and working. Master's degree $83,200 Preschool teachers educate and care for children younger than age 5 who have not yet entered kindergarten.

They teach language, motor, and social skills to young children. Associate's degree $28,990 Recreational therapists plan, direct, and coordinate recreation-based treatment programs for people with disabilities, injuries, or illnesses. These therapists use a variety of modalities, including arts and crafts; drama, music, and dance; sports and games; aquatics; and community outings to help maintain or improve a patient’s physical, social, and emotional well-being. Bachelor's degree $47,680 Social workers help people solve and cope with problems in their everyday lives. Clinical social workers also diagnose and treat mental, behavioral, and emotional issues. $47,980 Teacher assistants work under a teacher’s supervision to give students additional attention and instruction. Some college, no degree $26,260.

Pay The Pay tab describes typical earnings and how workers in the occupation are compensated—annual salaries, hourly wages, commissions, tips, or bonuses. Within every occupation, earnings vary by experience, responsibility, performance, tenure, and geographic area. For most profiles, this tab has a table with wages in the major industries employing the occupation.

It does not include pay for self-employed workers, agriculture workers, or workers in private households because these data are not collected by the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) survey, the source of BLS wage data in the OOH.