Becoming a special education teacher: Everything you need to know

ARE you someone special? Then join the 33,500 people who take up special education teaching roles each year in the US.

Regularly voted one of the nation’s most rewarding professions, it’s a job where you can truly change lives.

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Being a special education teacher isn’t for everyone – it needs an exceptional skillset and a warm heart.

But if you’d like to know more, here’s how to get started with Sun Jobs.

What is a special education teacher?

Also known as a SPED teacher, Special Education teachers support and instruct students with special needs.

They adapt the general education curriculum to make sure each student’s individual needs are met and teaching can span children of all ages with varying emotional, physical, and learning disabilities.

SPED teachers also help their pupils develop the life skills, problem-solving, motor and social skills they’ll need to complete their education and live independently.

How much does a Special Education Teacher make?

For most teachers, money isn’t the main motivation – it’s job satisfaction.

The average special education teacher salary in the USA is $64,752 per year or $31.13 per hour.

Entry-level positions start at $52,008 per year while most experienced workers make up to $87,750 per year.

There is strong demand right across the country and the role offers outstanding job security.

What qualifications will I need to become a Special Education Teacher?

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 always be required to have a state license or certification. You can find out more at www.naset.org.

What additional skills will I need?

All the skills to be a standard teacher and more! Of course, you will need knowledge of teaching the ability to design courses and the ability to create the best conditions for learning or teaching new things.

On top of this, it’s vital to have empathy, sensitivity, understanding, patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations.

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