Recruitment and Retention

The Six Steps to Becoming a Special Education Teacher

Step 1: Discover the roles of a special education teacher.

Step 2: Examine the Minnesota requirements to become a special education teacher.

Step 3: Find a preparation program that works best for you.

Step 4: Identify financial aid options.

Step 5: Make a plan.

Step 6: Secure a teaching job.


The Special Education Division works with other Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) divisions, schools, institutions of higher learning and teachers to provide guidance, mentoring programs and information on recruiting and retaining special education teachers.

Click here for: Minnesota Mentor Program