Teacher (Special Education)

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Work Tasks

• Work with students who need extra learning help outside the classroom
• Change lessons to meet the student's needs
• Make Individualized Education Programs (IEP) for each special education student
• Work closely with parents, social workers, psychologists, therapists, and teachers to find the best ways to help the child succeed
• Work in classrooms for public and private schools, parochial schools, adult education programs, hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation centers
• Work with text and reference books, workbooks, computers, educational materials, audiovisual equipment, student files and evaluations, Individualized Education Programs (IEP), attendance records, medical records, student reports, tests, social service agencies, and support groups

Salary, Size & Growth

• $58,000 average per year ($28.00 per hour)
• A large occupation (468,800 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow moderately (1.7% per year)

Education/Training

• Minimum for Entry: A 4-year degree from a school with an approved teacher training program, plus a period of student teaching
• Employers Prefer: A master's degree in teacher education
• Skills/Courses: College courses include general and specific courses in special education, educational psychology, legal issues of special education, and child growth and development.
• Certification/Licensing: All states require special education teachers to be licensed.