By Shannon Jenkins
Introduction
Becoming a special education teacher is a rewarding journey that allows individuals to make a significant impact on the lives of students with disabilities. Special education teachers work with students who have learning, mental, emotional, or physical disabilities, adapting lessons and teaching essential skills. This article outlines the steps to becoming a special education teacher, including educational requirements, job responsibilities, work environment, pay, and job outlook.
Educational Requirements
To teach in public schools, special education teachers must hold at least a bachelor’s degree and possess a state-issued certification or license. Private schools may require a bachelor’s degree, but they often do not mandate licensing or certification.
- Bachelor’s Degree: All states require special education teachers in public schools to have at least a bachelor’s degree. Some states mandate that the degree be specifically in special education, while others allow a major in education or a related content area, such as mathematics or science, with a minor in special education.
- Student-Teaching Experience: Programs leading to a bachelor’s degree in special education typically include a student-teaching component. This experience allows prospective teachers to work under the guidance of a mentor in a classroom setting, gaining hands-on experience in instructing students.
- Master’s Degree: While a bachelor’s degree is sufficient for initial certification, some states may require special education teachers to complete a master’s degree in special education to maintain or advance their certification.
Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations
Public school teachers must obtain a license, often referred to as certification. Requirements for certification can vary by state but generally include:
- A bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA
- Completion of a student-teaching program
- Passing background checks
- Passing a general teaching certification test and a subject knowledge test
Alternative routes to certification are available for individuals with a bachelor’s degree, covering essential teaching methods and child development.
What Special Education Teachers Do
Special education teachers play a vital role in the educational system. Their primary duties include:
- Assessing students’ skills and determining their educational needs
- Adapting general lessons to meet the diverse needs of students
- Developing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for each student
- Planning activities tailored to each student’s abilities
- Teaching and mentoring students in various settings, including one-on-one, small groups, or full class settings
- Tracking students’ progress and updating IEPs throughout the school year
- Collaborating with parents, other teachers, counselors, and administrators
Special education teachers may work with students from preschool through high school, addressing various disabilities, including learning disabilities, emotional disorders, and physical disabilities.
Work Environment
Special education teachers held about 531,600 jobs in 2023, with the largest employment sectors being public elementary and secondary schools. They typically work during school hours, with responsibilities including lesson preparation, grading, and meetings with parents and colleagues.
Special education teachers often experience emotionally rewarding moments in their roles, but the job can also be stressful and demanding. They may work in diverse settings, including:
- Classrooms or resource centers dedicated to students with disabilities
- Inclusive classrooms with general education students
- Students’ homes or residential facilities
Pay
The median annual wage for special education teachers was $65,910 in May 2023. Earnings can vary based on the educational level and the type of institution:
- Special education teachers, preschool: $65,270
- Special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school: $64,910
- Special education teachers, middle school: $66,600
- Special education teachers, secondary school: $66,620
Job Outlook
The job outlook for special education teachers indicates little to no growth in employment opportunities over the next decade. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the overall employment of special education teachers is projected to remain stable from 2023 to 2033, with an expected change of 0%. Here are some key points regarding the job outlook:
- Projected Openings: Despite the lack of growth, an average of 35,900 openings for special education teachers is expected each year over the decade, primarily due to retirements and workers transferring to different occupations.
- Demand Factors: The demand for special education teachers will depend on school enrollments and the need for special education services. As children with disabilities are identified earlier, there will be a continued requirement for specialized education.
Conclusion
While becoming a special education teacher involves a commitment to education and professional development, the ability to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students with disabilities is invaluable. With a stable job outlook and ongoing demand for special education services, pursuing a career in this field is a fulfilling path for those passionate about education and inclusivity.
Reference
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024). Special education teachers. Occupational Outlook Handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/special-education-teachers.htm