A special education career will likely have daily challenges you will need to overcome.
Yet, it is one of the most rewarding occupations to pursue, as you will strive each day to help students reach their full potential.
As a special education teacher, you will work with children or young people to provide the help and educational support they need each day.
After gaining the knowledge, skills, and training required, you can guide and teach students living with special needs, such as intellectual disabilities, behavioral disorders, and physical disabilities.
Read the five steps below to become a special education teacher.
Step One: Gain Experience in Special Education
As a special education teacher, you will need to manage various needs and abilities in the classroom to ensure each child flourishes in a fair, supportive environment. For this reason, the field requires passionate, dedicated, and hardworking educators.
Before enrolling in a course, many people start their career as a paraprofessional or teaching assistant in a special education classroom.
It will provide hands-on experience in the setting to ensure you make the right decision for your teaching goals.
However, it is important to note that some states require teaching assistants and paraprofessionals to earn an associate degree and undergo a background check.
Step Two: Earn an Undergraduate Degree
The first step you must take is to complete an undergraduate degree in either a liberal arts or sciences major or area of concentration. Also, you’ll need to earn at least 30 credits to apply for a master’s degree program.
Step Three: Gain Dual Certification in Childhood Special & General Education
An online special education degree can provide the knowledge and skills required to work in various settings. A dual certification can improve your career flexibility, and you can work with children from different backgrounds or those who need more emotional, social, physical, behavioral, or cognitive support.
For example, you can teach in either general education, special education, or an inclusive classroom. Alternatively, you could become a tutor, learning specialist or find a role in special education support services.
Step Four: Pass State Exams
Each U.S. state has specific testing requirements for aspiring teachers, and you must pass the necessary exams to become a special education teacher. The Department of Education can provide details on the necessary testing requirements for your state.
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For example, if you live in New York, you will need to pass either New York State initial certification in Childhood General Education or New York State initial certification for Teaching Students with Disabilities.
Step Five: Find the Perfect Position
Once you have earned the necessary certifications and passed a state exam, you can apply for a teaching position role at a public elementary or secondary school. It is common for special education teachers to work in public schools.
However, there are a few roles available in private schools or residential facilities. Browse the job market to find the perfect position for your goals.
Image Credit: become a special education teacher by twenty20.com
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