Considering a career as a special education teacher? These professionals educate special needs students who have various developmental, cognitive, emotional and physical disabilities. This guide provides all the necessary information and resources to get started. Find out everything you need to know about this occupation, including qualifications, pay and standard duties.

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Special Education Teachers
Table of Contents
04 Summary
07 What Special Education Teachers Do
13 How to become a Special Education Teacher
16 Important Qualities
17 Pay
19 Job Outlook
21 State & Area Data
22 Similar Occupations
25 Contacts for More Information

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Special Education Teachers
Summary
Special education teachers work with students who have a wide range of learning
disabilities.
Quick Facts: Special Education Teachers
2014 Median Pay $55,980 per year
Typical Entry-Level Education Bachelor's degree
Work Experience in a Related Occupation None
On-the-job Training Internship/residency
Number of Jobs, 2014 450,700
Job Outlook, 2014-24 6% (As fast as average)
Employment Change, 2014-24 28,100

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What Special Education Teachers Do
Special education teachers work with students who have a wide range of learn-
ing, mental, emotional, and physical disabilities. They adapt general education
lessons and teach various subjects, such as reading, writing, and math, to stu-
dents with mild and moderate disabilities. They also teach basic skills, such as
literacy and communication techniques, to students with severe disabilities.
Work Environment
Most special education teachers work in public schools, teaching students at
the preschool, elementary, middle, and high school level. Others work in pri-
vate schools, childcare services, and other institutions. Many work the tradi-
tional 10-month school year, but some work year round.
How 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 be required to have a state
license or certification.
Pay
The median annual wage for special education teachers was $55,980 in May
2014.
Job Outlook
Employment of special education teachers is projected to grow 6 percent from
2014 to 2024, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Employment
growth will be driven by continued demand for special education services.

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Many job opportunities will stem from the need to replace teachers who leave
the occupation.
State & Area Data
Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for special edu-
cation teachers.
Similar Occupations
Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of special education
teachers with similar occupations.
More Information, Including Links to O*NET
Learn more about special education teachers by visiting additional resources,
including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.

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What Special Education Teachers Do
Special education teachers may teach students in small groups or on a one-on-
one basis.
Special education teachers work with students who have a wide range of learn-
ing, mental, emotional, and physical disabilities. They adapt general education
lessons and teach various subjects, such as reading, writing, and math, to stu-
dents with mild and moderate disabilities. They also teach basic skills, such as
literacy and communication techniques, to students with severe disabilities.
Duties
Special Education Teachers typically do the following:
• Assess students’ skills to determine their needs and to develop appropriate
teaching plans
• Adapt general lessons to meet the needs of students
• Develop Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for each student

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• Plan, organize, and assign activities that are specific to each student’s abil-
ities
• Teach and mentor students as a class, in small groups, and one-on-one
• Implement IEPs, assess students’ performance, and track their progress
• Update IEPs throughout the school year to reflect students’ progress and
goals
• Discuss student’s progress with parents, teachers, counselors, and admin-
istrators
• Supervise and mentor teacher assistants who work with students with
disabilities
• Prepare and help students transition from grade to grade and for life after
graduation
Special education teachers work with general education teachers, counselors,
school superintendents, administrators, and parents. As a team, they develop
IEPs specific to each student’s needs. IEPs outline the goals and services for
each student, such as sessions with the school psychologists, counselors, and
special education teachers. Teachers also meet with parents, school adminis-
trators, and counselors to discuss updates and changes to the IEPs.
Special education teachers’ duties vary by the type of setting they work in,
student disabilities, and teacher specialty.
Some special education teachers work in classrooms or resource centers that
only include students with disabilities. In these settings, teachers plan, adapt,
and present lessons to meet each student’s needs. They teach students in
small groups or on a one-on-one basis.
In inclusive classrooms, special education teachers teach students with dis-
abilities who are in general education classrooms. They work with general

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education teachers to present the information in a manner that students
with disabilities can more easily understand. They also assist general educa-
tion teachers to adapt lessons that will meet the needs of the students with
disabilities in their classes.
Special education teachers also collaborate with teacher assistants, psychol-
ogists, and social workers to accommodate requirements of students with
disabilities. For example, they may have a teacher assistant work with them
to provide support for a student who needs particular attention.
Special education teachers work with students who have a wide variety of
mental, emotional, physical, and learning disabilities. For example, some
work with students who need assistance in subject areas, such as reading
and math. Others help students develop study skills, such as by using flash-
cards and text highlighting.
Some special education teachers work with students who have physical and
sensory disabilities, such as blindness and deafness, and with students who
are wheelchair-bound. They also may work with those who have autism
spectrum disorders and emotional disorders, such as anxiety and depression.
Special education teachers work with students from preschool to high
school. Some teachers work with students who have severe disabilities until
the students are 21 years old.
Special education teachers help students with severe disabilities develop
basic life skills, such as how to respond to questions and how to follow direc-
tions. Some teach the skills necessary for students with moderate disabilities
to live independently, find a job, and manage money and their time. For
more information about other workers who help individuals with disabilities

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develop skills necessary to live independently, see the profiles on occupational
therapists and occupational therapy assistants and aides.
Most special education teachers use computers to keep records of their stu-
dents’ performance, prepare lesson plans, and update IEPs. Some teachers
also use various assistive technology aids, such as Braille writers and computer
software that help them communicate with students.

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Work Environment
Special education teachers can work with young children in child care centers.
Special education teachers held about 450,700 jobs in 2014.
Most special education teachers work in public schools. Some teach in mag-
net, charter, and private schools. Some also work with young children in
childcare centers.
A few work with students in residential facilities, hospitals, and students’
homes. They may travel to these locations. Some teachers work with infants
and toddlers at the child’s home. They also teach the child’s parents methods
and ways to help the child develop skills.
Helping students with disabilities can be highly rewarding. It also can be quite
stressful—emotionally demanding and physically draining.

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Work Schedules
Special education teachers typically work during school hours. They also use
that time to grade papers, update students’ records, and prepare lessons.
They may meet with parents, students, and other teachers before and after
classes.
Many work the traditional 10-month school year and have a 2-month break
during the summer. Some teachers may work for summer programs.
Teachers in districts with a year-round schedule typically work 8 weeks in a
row then are on break for 1 week. They also have a 5-week midwinter break.

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How to become a Special Education Teacher
Special education teachers need to be able to explain concepts in terms
students with learning disabilities can understand.
Special education teachers in public schools are required to have at least a
bachelor’s degree and a state-issued certification or license. Private schools
typically require teachers to have a bachelor’s degree, but teachers are not
required to be licensed or certified. For information about teacher prepara-
tion programs and certification requirements, visit Teach.org or contact your
state’s board of education.
Education
All states require special education teachers in public schools to have at
least a bachelor’s degree. Some earn a degree specifically in special educa-
tion. Others major in elementary education or a content area, such as math
or science, with a minor in special education.

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In a program leading to a bachelor’s degree in special education, prospective
teachers learn about the different types of disabilities and how to present in-
formation so that students will understand. These programs typically include
fieldwork, such as student teaching. To become fully certified, some states
require special education teachers to complete a master’s degree in special
education.
Teachers in private schools do not need to meet state requirements. Howev-
er, private schools may prefer to hire teachers who have at least a bachelor’s
degree in special education.
Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations
All states require teachers in public schools to be licensed. A license is fre-
quently referred to as a certification. Those who teach in private schools
are not required to be licensed. Most states require teachers to pass a back-
ground check.
Requirements for certification vary by state. In addition to a bachelor’s de-
gree, states also require teachers to complete a teacher preparation program
and supervised experience in teaching. Some states require a minimum
grade point average. Teachers may be required to complete annual profes-
sional development classes or a master’s degree program to maintain their
license.
Many states offer general licenses in special education that allow teachers
to work with students with a variety of disabilities. Others offer licenses or
endorsements based on a disability-specific category, such as autism or be-
havior disorders.

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Some states allow special education teachers to transfer their licenses from
another state. Other states require even an experienced teacher to pass
their state’s licensing requirements.
All states offer an alternative route to certification for people who already
have a bachelor’s degree. Some alternative certification programs allow
candidates to begin teaching immediately, under the close supervision of an
experienced teacher. These alternative programs cover teaching methods
and child development. Candidates are awarded full certification after they
complete the program. Other programs require prospective teachers to take
classes in education before they can start to teach. They may be awarded a
master’s degree after completing either type of program.
Training
Some special education teachers need to complete a period of fieldwork,
commonly referred to as student teaching, before they can work as a teach-
er. In some states, this program is a prerequisite for a license to teach in pub-
lic schools. During student teaching, they gain experience in preparing lesson
plans and teaching students in a classroom setting, under the supervision
and guidance of a mentor teacher. The amount of time required for these
programs varies by state, but may last from 1 to 2 years. Many universities
offer student teaching programs as part of a degree in special education.
Advancement
Experienced teachers can advance to become mentor or lead teachers who
help less experienced teachers improve their teaching skills.
Teachers may become school counselors, instructional coordinators, assis-
tant principals, or principals. These positions generally require additional

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education, an advanced degree, or certification. An advanced degree in educa-
tion administration or leadership may be helpful.
Important Qualities
Communication skills. Special education teachers discuss students’ needs
and performances with general education teachers, parents, and administra-
tors. They also explain difficult concepts in terms that students with learning
disabilities can understand.
Critical-thinking skills. Special education teachers assess students’ progress
and use that information to adapt lessons to help them learn.
Interpersonal skills. Special education teachers regularly work with general
education teachers, school counselors, administrators, and parents to develop
Individualized Education Programs. As a result, they need to be able to build
positive working relationships.
Patience. Working with students with special needs and different abilities
can be difficult. Special education teachers should be patient with each stu-
dent, as some may need the instruction given aloud, at a slower pace, or in
writing.
Resourcefulness. Special education teachers must develop different ways
to present information in a manner that meets the needs of their students.
They also help general education teachers adapt their lessons to the needs of
students with disabilities.

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Pay
Special Education Teachers
Median annual wages, May 2014
Special Education Teachers
$55,980
Preschool, primary, secondary, and spe-
cial education school teachers
$53,160
Total, all occupations
$35,540
Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics
The median annual wage for special education teachers was $55,980 in May 2014.
The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned
more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less
than $37,110, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $88,080.
Median annual wages for special education teachers in May 2014 were as follows:
Special education teachers, secondary school $57,810
Special education teachers, middle school 56,760
Special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary
school
54,570
Special education teachers, preschool 54,000
Special education teachers typically work during school hours. They also use that
time to grade papers, update students’ records, and prepare lessons. They may
meet with parents, students, and other teachers before and after classes.

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Many work the traditional 10-month school year and have a 2-month break
during the summer. Some teachers may work for summer programs.
Teachers in districts with a year-round schedule typically work 8 weeks in a row
then are on break for 1 week. They also have a 5-week midwinter break.
Union Membership
Most special education teachers belonged to a union in 2014.

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Job Outlook
Special Education Teachers
Percent change in employment, projected 2014-24
Total, all occupations
7%
Special education teachers
6%
Preschool, primary, secondary, and special edu-
cation school teachers
6%
Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program
Employment of special education teachers is projected to grow 6 percent from
2014 to 2024, about as fast as the average for all occupations. The employment
growth of special education teachers will vary by type. (See table below.) However,
overall demand will be driven by enrollment, the need for special education ser-
vices, and the federal budget situation.
Although enrollment in special education programs has slightly decreased, better
screening and identification of various disabilities in children are expected to affect
the demand for special education services. Children with disabilities are being iden-
tified earlier and enrolled into special education programs.
Employment growth will also depend on government funding, since laws require
free public education for students with disabilities. Every state must maintain the
same level of financial support for special education every year.
Job Prospects
Teaching students with disabilities can be quite stressful, emotionally demanding,
and physically draining. As a result, many schools have difficulties recruiting and

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retaining special education teachers. Special education teachers are expected to
have good job opportunities, which will stem from the need to replace teachers
who leave the occupation each year.
Job opportunities also may be better in certain specialties, such as those re-
quiring experience with early childhood intervention and skills in working with
students who have multiple disabilities, severe disabilities, or autism spectrum
disorders. Those with experience and knowledge of working with students with
learning disabilities and speech or language impairments may have the best job
prospects.
Employment projections data for Special Education Teachers, 2014-24
Occupational
Title
SOC
Code
Employ-
ment,
2014
Projected
Employ-
ment, 2024
Change, 2014-24 Employ-
ment by
IndustryPercent
Numeric
Special educa-
tion teachers
— 491,100 522,000 6 31,000 —
Special educa-
tion teachers,
preschool
25-2051 25,500 27,800 9 2,300 [XLSX]
Special educa-
tion teachers,
kindergarten
and elementary
school
25-2052 198,100 210,600 6 12,500 [XLSX]
Special educa-
tion teachers,
middle school
25-2053 93,000 98,500 6 5,500 [XLSX]
Special educa-
tion teachers,
secondary
school
25-2054 134,000 141,900 6 7,900 [XLSX]
SOURCE: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program

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State & Area Data
Occupational Employment Statistics (OES)
The Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) program produces employ-
ment and wage estimates annually for over 800 occupations. These esti-
mates are available for the nation as a whole, for individual states, and for
metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas. The link(s) below go to OES data
maps for employment and wages by state and area.
• Special education teachers, kindergarten and elementary school
• Special education teachers, middle school
• Special education teachers, preschool
• Special education teachers, secondary school
Projections Central
Occupational employment projections are developed for all states by Labor
Market Information (LMI) or individual state Employment Projections offices.
All state projections data are available at www.projectionscentral.com.
Information on this site allows projected employment growth for an
occupation to be compared among states or to be compared within one
state. In addition, states may produce projections for areas; there are links to
each state’s websites where these data may be retrieved.
Career InfoNet
America’s Career InfoNet includes hundreds of occupational profiles with d
ata available by state and metro area. There are links in the left-hand side
menu to compare occupational employment by state and occupational wag-
es by local area or metro area. There is also a salary info tool to search for
wages by zip code.

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Similar Occupations
This table shows a list of occupations with job duties that are similar to those
of Special Education Teachers.
Occupation Job Duties
ENTRY-LEVEL
EDUCATION
2014
MEDIAN
PAY
Career and Technical
Education Teachers
Career and technical education
teachers instruct students in
various technical and voca-
tional subjects, such as auto
repair, healthcare, and culinary
arts. They teach academic and
technical content to provide
students with the skills and
knowledge necessary to enter
an occupation.
Bachelor's
degree
$51,830
Childcare Workers Childcare workers provide care
for children when parents and
other family members are
unavailable. They attend to
children’s basic needs, such as
bathing and feeding. In addi-
tion, some help children pre-
pare for kindergarten or help
older children with homework.
High school
diploma or
equivalent
$19,730
Elementary, Middle,
and High School Prin-
cipals
Elementary, middle, and high
school principals manage all
school operations, including
daily school activities. They
coordinate curricula, oversee
teachers and other school staff,
and provide a safe and produc-
tive learning environment for
students.
Master's degree $89,540
High School Teachers High school teachers help
prepare students for life after
graduation. They teach ac-
ademic lessons and various
skills that students will need to
attend college and to enter the
job market.
Bachelor's
degree
$56,310

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Instructional Coordi-
nators
Instructional coordinators
oversee school curriculums
and teaching standards. They
develop instructional material,
coordinate its implementation
with teachers and principals,
and assess its effectiveness.
Master's degree $61,550
Kindergarten and
Elementary School
Teachers
Kindergarten and elementa-
ry school teachers prepare
younger students for future
schooling by teaching them
basic subjects such as math
and reading.
Bachelor's
degree
$53,760
Middle School Teach-
ers
Middle school teachers edu-
cate students, typically in sixth
through eighth grades. Middle
school teachers help students
build on the fundamentals
they learned in elementary
school and prepare them for
the more difficult curriculum
they will face in high school.
Bachelor's
degree
$54,940
Occupational Thera-
pists
Occupational therapists treat
injured, ill, or disabled patients
through the therapeutic use
of everyday activities. They
help these patients develop,
recover, and improve the skills
needed for daily living and
working.
Master's degree $78,810
Preschool Teachers Preschool teachers educate
and care for children younger
than age 5 who have not yet
entered kindergarten. They
teach reading, writing, science,
and other subjects in a way
that young children can under-
stand.
Associate's
degree
$28,120

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Recreational Thera-
pists
Recreational therapists plan,
direct, and coordinate recre-
ation-based treatment pro-
grams for people with dis-
abilities, injuries, or illnesses.
These therapists use a variety
of modalities, including arts
and crafts; drama, music, and
dance; sports and games;
aquatics; and community
outings to help maintain or
improve a patient’s physical,
social, and emotional well-be-
ing.
Bachelor's
degree
$44,000
Social Workers Social workers help people
solve and cope with problems
in their everyday lives. One
group of social workers—clin-
ical social workers—also diag-
nose and treat mental, behav-
ioral, and emotional issues.
See How to
Become One
$45,500
Teacher Assistants Teacher assistants work under
a teacher’s supervision to give
students additional attention
and instruction.
Some college, no
degree
$24,430

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Contacts for More Information
For more information about special education teachers, visit
Council for Exceptional Children
Personnel Improvement Center
National Association of Special Education Teachers
For more information about teaching and becoming a teacher, visit
Teach.org
American Federation of Teachers
National Education Association
O*NET
Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School
Special Education Teachers, Middle School
Special Education Teachers, Preschool
Special Education Teachers, Secondary School