Special Education Career Guide
Special education teachers have some of the most difficult jobs in education, and, depending on where you live, there may or may not be special programs built to assist you. However, the jobs these teachers do are some of the most important and life-changing in the whole education sector. Students with dyslexia and other learning disabilities, if left without special assistance, may never make it through school. Students with hearing impairments are still having trouble joining the workforce, but the education made possible by those who teach them, using ASL and other advancements, have made it possible for them to become entrepreneurs; creating a place for other hearing-impaired graduates to thrive and grow. The same goes for students who are blind, have issues with mobility, learning disorders, problems focusing, autism, and a number of other challenging situations. Special education teachers take a stand for universal education and do their best to provide these students with the same opportunities everyone else has.
Qualities of a Special ED Teacher
If you have a lot of patience, compassion, and a love for children, you might make an excellent special education teacher. Only a small percent of all teachers become special education teachers. However, many remarkable early childhood education or elementary education degree programs require classes in working with children who require additional assistance with emotional, physical, and intellectual development. The level of developmental severity will vary from student to student. Some children may only require a few hours a day to assist with reading; whereas, other children may require full-time special education.
The reason the general classroom and the special education classroom are sometimes separated is to ensure each student receives as much attention as possible to better the chances of developmental success for everyone. Students who have dyslexia, ADHD, autism, mental health issues, physical restrictions, and more are likely to spend time in a special education setting. Each student will have a special need that simply cannot be addressed in a general education classroom. It is this extra attention and the specialized training of special education teachers that improves the lives of many special needs students. These students receive the care and compassion they require while still being amongst other children for a more traditional experience. Without special education teachers, the quality of life of these students and their families would greatly suffer.
What will you do as a Special Ed Educator?
Special education teachers will work with children who have varying degrees of emotional, learning, mental, and physical disabilities. These teachers must adapt all subjects from the general classrooms to be able to teach students in the special education classroom. Subjects may include math, reading, writing, and communication. Each day in a special education classroom will be different and teachers must be able to adapt and remain flexible when behavioral issues arise.
Special education teachers will be required to work with a wide variety of teaching professionals, such as counselors, psychologists, general classroom teachers, administrators, and more. You will also work closely with the parents. It is important to note that parents with children who have special needs are likely to be equally as passionate as you are. It may be difficult for them at times and they may have more demands and expectations than parents in the general classroom. At the end of the day, special education teachers must be prepared to meet parents and expect them to be emotionally charged at times.
Degree Requirements for Special Ed Teachers
You will require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree to become a special education teacher in any state. Some states will require a specific bachelor’s degree in special education, whereas other states may require a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or elementary education with a minor or emphasis in special education. These specialized classes help prospective teachers become highly trained in the unique settings and circumstances of a special education classroom.
Special education teachers will be required to maintain a specific GPA and complete a specific number of hours of supervised classroom experience. This is typically done during an undergraduate degree program. You will also be required to complete a teacher preparation program. Most top schools offer this preparation program as part of undergraduate teaching degrees. You could also take an individual teacher preparation course for if you’re a transfer or if you have a bachelor’s degree outside of teaching. Additionally, always remember that every single prospective teacher must complete an extensive background check to work with children.
Exams and Licenses
Each state will have different requirements for exams, certification completions, and licensures. Most states require the completion of a general teaching certificate to prove knowledge and comprehension of the materials that will be taught. These must be completed before licensure can be obtained. You will be required to take at least one PRAXIS or state-specific exam. PRAXIS offers several exams in special education and elementary education. Some of these exams include: Special Education: Core Knowledge and Applications; Special Education: Core Knowledge and Severe to Profound Applications; and Special Education: Teaching Students with Learning Disabilities.
The licensure or endorsement required will be unique in each state and for each employer. You might have to receive specific training by working with certain disabilities to be able to teach in some classrooms. You should be prepared for the fact that you never know the type of disabilities with which you will work, as each school will have a unique group of students every year. In most states, you can take alternative paths to obtain licensure if you did not follow the traditional teacher degree path and you wish to change careers. These alternative paths vary from state-to-state.
Special Education Teacher Salaries
The vast majority of special education teachers work in public elementary schools. A small portion of special education teachers will work in private schools, preschools, secondary schools, private homes, or work for specialized schools dedicated entirely to children with special needs and disabilities. Many smaller school districts will often have all children with special needs in one classroom at the same time. Larger schools and private schools might be able to afford teachers to specialize in specific developmental needs.
Due to the fact that budgets are smaller in small towns versus larger cities, you will likely make less money in small school districts. Some school districts, regardless of size, may not dedicate nearly enough funds for children with special needs. These special education teachers may make less than in school districts that compensate appropriately. In many school districts, special education teachers are in great demand; therefore, as a result, salaries for special education teachers will be even higher than a teacher in general classrooms.
The duties of a special education teacher include overseeing the educational training and education of students with various learning and physical disabilities. They design and provide educational courses designed to meet the needs and specific capabilities of each student under their direct supervision. In many cases, the student's parents may also serve as part of this team, but usually under a different supervisor.
Physical disabilities are defined in several ways, depending on the disability that is being addressed. A physical disability is any impairment that limits or impairs a person's ability to carry out everyday activities such as walking, speaking, eating, etc. Emotional disabilities are defined as a person's personality. A psychological disability may be caused by trauma, chemical imbalance, or neurological problems.
Each form of a disability is important, but it is important to remember that every type of special education is different. Therefore, a special education teacher has a number of special education teacher qualifications in addition to these qualifications for teaching a specific disability. Special education teacher training can involve attending a school district-approved program, working through a private teacher certification program, or learning how to teach a specific disability through self study.
In order to qualify for education teacher training, one must have a bachelor's degree and a certain amount of experience in a public school setting. One must also have a certification from a recognized organization that specializes in educating students with special needs. The education teacher training program will help prepare the teacher for the challenges of teaching students with special needs. It is also designed to help the teacher to build the skills necessary to teach students with different conditions.
The first step in taking on this challenging role as a special education teacher is to complete a special education teacher certification program. This training is provided in either an on-site classroom setting or online, which is often available at the completion of a master's degree. Students will learn how to educate students with various needs while still allowing them the opportunity to participate in their own learning. Students will have the opportunity to go through a set of pre-employment screenings and interviews. as, well.
After completing this training and certification, one must then take part in one or more approved special education teacher qualifications. training courses that will prepare the teacher for each area of responsibility. These training courses will include subjects such as elementary, middle, secondary, and high school teaching. As a teacher progresses through these courses, their knowledge and skills will become more refined and they will gain the skills necessary to offer quality education for their students.
There are several special education teacher qualifications available, including certified in a specific area or specialization. For example, one may be certified in special education in the first two years of a special education teacher training program but then specialize in special education in the last two years. A special education teacher may specialize in elementary teaching but be certified in special education for middle school. A special education teacher may be certified in special education in both elementary and secondary education, but specialize in special education of students with specific learning and/or physical disabilities in both.
Special education teacher training can help prepare the teacher for many types of teaching jobs, including teaching in the pre-K to high school level, as well as teaching in higher education, special education for juvenile, and health care settings. The variety of work that is available for a qualified teacher is extensive. The most common career of this type is a specialized teacher in an elementary, secondary, or special education classroom, but there is also the opportunity to teach in a university, a junior college, a private school, or even a college campus.
Education And Also Understanding Professional (EdS) and also doctoral degrees are furthermore available in special education. The previous level is created trainees that currently hold a master's level in addition to are interested in ending up being an organization specialist or psychotherapist. At the same time, a PhD or EdD degree prepares trainees to operate in management features. You'll spend much of your time performing study as well as also completing specific course needs.
A master's degree from a certified college or college in an area concerning trainees with one-of-a-kind needs, such as one-of-a-kind education and also discovering, art treatment, nursing or community service. Completion of 5 certifications of Advanced Professional Development A passing ranking on a 50-question multiple option assessment Above the majority of different other professions, the task of training special education and also learning needs individuals who have a particular collection of top quality. Contrast your very own particular with.
Having your very own well-tuned sense of humor will lighten your days as well as likewise revitalize your training of special education pupils. Despite their special needs, your trainees can pick up when you are appreciating them as well as their uniqueness All trainees call for a framework to succeed, however special education and finding out pupils require it a lot more. Special education as well as a learning mentor offers you with the opportunity to like and appreciate others despite their abilities or behavior. Seeking to absolutely acknowledge as well as motivate your trainees will certainly assist them-and you-go far.
The capability to discover new methods to describe as well as also reveal subject is commonly the solitary most effective particular a distinct ed instructor can have. Trainees with intellectual special needs, psychological disturbance or autism can drop it when teachers are not right, firm, kind as well as practical, likewise in difficult situations. View yourself carefully following time a situation or emergency circumstance comes up and likewise see exactly how you react. Do you maintain your wits regarding you and also deal steadily with the situation? If so, you have a terrific personality to end up being a special education instructor. Some auditory learning impairment, injuries and additionally numerous other handicaps make special education pupils unpleasant communicators.
When instructing special education and also understanding, you will require to be watchful as well as included so you can visualize students 'demands as well as also solve their problems when they do not have the capacity to tell you concerning them. Informing special education can be frustrating sometimes along with, to make issues worse, your students might not have the maturity to experience quietly alone. If you battle about, attempt to concentrate on seeing the desirable remarks you get. Occasionally somewhat easy jobs can wind up being long, difficult fights for students with figuring out impairments.
Educators require to provide hope and also inspiration in difficult situations. Instructing one-of-a-kind education suggests celebrating any type of type of as well as likewise all success, whether for long-awaited successes or basic attempts. And also, as soon as you recognize a student's sturdiness as well as fights, no one is better complete than you to assist them. Consider your dedication and whether it can go to the variety in fulfilling the needs of these remarkable trainees.
Although almost all training positions ask for a bachelor's degree and likewise teaching certificate, your specific task purposes will definitely establish what kind of level you'll need to make. A crucial placement in any type of one-of-a-kind education and also discovering department, teacher's aides aid teachers whatsoever degrees of one-of-a-kind education and learning, consisting of preschool. This is an important special education as well as learning profession in every special ed class.
A master's level in special education achieves many goals, depending upon your current academic level, the state's requirements, and/or your desired career path in special ed. If you hold a Bachelor's degree from another discipline and want to begin teacher certification as an administrator, you may want to focus on a Master's level in Special Education. Here are the goals that you should be concerned with as you pursue this goal.
You will find that there are some requirements that you must meet in order to obtain your master's certification in Special Education. First, you must have a minimum of a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Also, you must pass all of the state required tests, which may include both written and oral exams.
Once you have completed your master's level in Special Ed, you will then need to complete a two-year program at a school that offers such training. Most states require that you receive teaching certification before taking this two-year program. You will also need to complete a specific number of course hours at the school you chose for your master's level training. These may vary among states, but generally you must complete a total of 500 hours in order to qualify.
Masters in Special Education also allow you to specialize within your chosen field of specialization. This is usually where the career advancement is seen as you progress through your schooling. Many educators find that this is the area of special and that provides the greatest job security and allows them to have the freedom to teach in many different settings.
Another goal of obtaining a Master's in Special Education is to be hired as a full-time or part-time teacher. While the requirements for this level of certification are different from state to state, many employers prefer to hire these professionals. Often the position is one where you teach the most children or where the majority of your students live. However, you may find yourself teaching at many different settings depending upon the needs of your students and what you find is most effective.
If you are considering a masters in Special Education teacher certification, it is important that you understand the education requirements you will have to satisfy. If you already hold a Bachelor's degree, you must pass the state exam as well as a state-administered national test. If you do not have a bachelor's, you may wish to consider pursuing an associate's or a bachelor's degree to help you qualify. Although, you may wish to pursue an advanced degree as well.
Regardless of which type of master's you choose, you must continue to complete the same number of course hours required for the master's level as if you were a teacher with a Bachelor's degree. The difference in this level is that you will now have more responsibility in the teaching responsibilities. In addition, you will have to complete a series of additional courses that can be completed at home or at a university that offers online instruction.
When you complete your education teacher certification, you will be able to provide a higher level of service to your students. You will be able to communicate with your students more effectively and teach them the basics of science and mathematics in addition to basic math skills. As your students' progress throughout their academic careers, you will become more involved in the classroom and more involved with the curriculum.
Certification is also helpful for you when you are applying for positions in the future. Many employers look at your experience in the classroom as proof that you have met the requirements to become a quality educator. You will also find that these positions are becoming harder and more competitive and you should expect to get higher pay as a result.
If you have never held a position in an education teacher certification program before, you may want to check with your school district to see what their requirements are. Most districts require some sort of formal training to be eligible for employment in this field of employment.
You may also want to check with your school system and see what the requirements are for certifying teachers within your district. Each district has its own requirements, so it may be helpful to contact your local school board of education as well as they will have information regarding what requirements apply to your area.
Career & Salary Outlook
The career outlook for people working in special education is a positive one with an expected growth rate of 8% between 2016 and 2026. This is slightly higher than traditional teacher roles and on par with job growth for all industries during the same time frame. Career change can occur within the special education department, particularly in school districts with more than one class for children with developmental challenges. It is also possible to become an administrator within special education or for the entire school. Some special education teachers will continue their education to become counselors or psychologists. It is important to continue your education no matter the career path you seek to stay on top of current trends and the latest proven methodologies with the greatest success rates for your students.
It is possible that you might have to work all 12 months of the year. However, other school districts still take off two months in the summer. Many teachers choose to pick up additional work during this time to compensate for their salary. Some teachers will take on more responsibility in the school to make more money, such as coaching a sport or tutoring students on their own time. If you work in a school dedicated to special needs children, you might have more resources and greater flexibility in your career development. Most school districts have limited funding and resources which can make teaching in special education a challenge. Your creativity and ability to adapt will be your saving grace in a public school.
Job Duties of a Special Education Teacher
Observe and assess the skills of students to determine exact needs.
Plan and organize activities customized to the abilities of each student.
Monitor and track goals, progress, and performance throughout the year.
Meet with administrators, other teachers, counselors, and parents to discuss the progress of each student.
Adapt and create lesson plans for the needs of each student.
Use the latest technology as learning tools and to encourage integration and engagement.
Provide transition preparation for each student to move to the next grade and to be able to adjust to life once they graduate.
Be able to mentor and teach students one-on-one, in groups, and as an entire class.
Mentor and supervise assistant teachers who are training or trained to work with students who have disabilities.
Educate parents on tools they can use at home to improve development even further.
Useful Skills and Certifications
Patience
Professionalism
Superior Communication Skills
Willingness to Adapt
Acceptance of Change
Exceptional Organizational Skills
Courses in Special Education