Are you considering becoming a special education teacher?

Whether you’re hoping for a rewarding change in your career or have always dreamed of helping differently-abled children, this could be your big chance! The job also has an excellent outlook – with some parts of the country experiencing major shortages of these uniquely qualified individuals.

But, before you begin your special education career, there are a few things you should know. Keep reading for all the details!

What Is a Special Education Teacher?

Special education teachers work with students who have physical, psychological, or cognitive differences from other students. Simply put, those with special needs.

Like traditional teachers of other subjects, they plan lessons, instruct students, and assign activities. They also grade in-class assignments, homework, and tests, track each student’s progress, and meet with parents or guardians to discuss students’ abilities, challenges, and accomplishments.

How to Become a Special Education Teacher

No matter what state you want to work in, you’ll first have to become licensed to teach. And, the requirements aren’t identical everywhere! That being said, you’ll find some common prerequisites to include:

• A state-approved bachelor’s or master’s degree in special education
• Successful completion of a student teaching internship in a special education setting
• Passing scores on state-required testing for special education teachers
• A successfully filed application for a teaching license

Once you’ve completed these essential steps, you can start looking for special education jobs and join the workforce!

Keep in mind that not just anybody can work with special needs children. Special education teachers have to be patient and calm, organized, firm yet inspiring, and above all else – accepting.

This job requires teachers to interact with children from all types of backgrounds who require special attention and understanding. Good communication skills are also essential in this career, as differently-abled students may have communication disabilities.

Special education teachers are also frequently required to communicate with an entire team supporting their students. This could include parents, other educators, and counselors, all working together to measure and ensure success.

Special Education Job Outlook

Special education teachers aren’t just in high demand. They’re also a highly-valued part of the education system. 

As more and more educators trained to work with differently-abled students are needed, their projected salaries rise accordingly. In fact, the average special education teacher salary in 2021 is just over $57,000.

And, when it comes to teaching children with special needs, the rewards go further than just financial gains. Special education teachers love what they do and find their work both challenging and rewarding.

Becoming a Special Education Teacher

Now that you know a bit more about what it takes to become a special education teacher, you’re ready to begin the journey. Congratulations! Reading this blog post could have been the first step on your road toward a fulfilling and in-demand job helping others.

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