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If you’re interested in becoming a special education teacher, there are a few things you’ll need to do first. In this blog post, we’ll go over the requirements to be a special education teacher in the United States.
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The Basic Requirements
A special education teacher must have a bachelor’s degree in special education or a bachelor’s degree in elementary education with a focus in special education. He or she must also be certified to teach in their state. Some states require special education teachers to have a master’s degree.
A bachelor’s degree
In order to become a special education teacher, you will need to earn at least a bachelor’s degree. Many states require that you complete a teaching program as well as a student teaching internship. You may also need to pass a state-specific teacher certification exam.
A teaching license
Most states require special education teachers to have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in special education, although some states allow teachers with a bachelor’s degree in a content area such as English or math to teach after completing coursework in special education strategies. Some states also offer alternative certification programs for candidates who already have a bachelor’s degree but have not completed a traditional teacher preparation program.
Specialized Requirements
There are a number of specialized requirements that must be met in order to become a special education teacher. These requirements include a bachelor’s degree, a teaching license, and a minimum of two years of teaching experience. In addition, special education teachers must also complete a special education certification program.
A degree in special education
To be a special education teacher, you will need to have at least a bachelor’s degree, although many states now require a master’s degree. In addition, you will need to complete a teacher preparation program and student teaching experience. Some states also require you to pass a state-specific exam.
Certification in special education
All states require special education teachers in public schools to be certified and licensed. Requirements vary by state, but most require candidates to complete an accredited teacher preparation program and a student teaching internship. Many states offer alternative certification programs for individuals who have a bachelor’s degree in another field but want to become special education teachers. These programs typically include coursework in pedagogy and child development as well as a student teaching internship. Some states offer alternative certification programs that can be completed entirely online, while others require some on-campus coursework or clinical experiences. Many states offer reciprocity agreements that allow individuals who are certified in one state to teach in another state without having to complete the entire certification process again.
Individuals who teach in private schools are not required to be certified, but most private schools prefer or require their teachers to have certification. Some private schools may also require their teachers to have a master’s degree in special education or a related field.
The Other Requirements
Special education teachers must have a bachelor’s degree. In addition, they must complete a state-approved teaching license or certification program. Most states require special education teachers to complete a special education teaching certification program.
A passion for teaching
Special education teachers work with students who have a wide range of learning, mental, emotional, and physical disabilities. They adapt general education lessons and teach various subjects, such as reading, writing, and math, to students with mild and moderate disabilities. They also teach basic life skills and functional academic skills to students with severe disabilities.
Most special education teachers work in public schools. Some teach in private schools, hospitals, or residential treatment facilities. A small number are self-employed and work as tutors or consultants.
The ability to build relationships
While the above qualities are certainly important for all teachers, they are especially vital for those who work with students who have special needs. These students often require more individualized attention and support, which means that teachers need to be able to develop strong relationships with them.
Special education teachers need to be patient, compassionate, and understanding. They must be able to build trusting relationships with their students and their families. They also need to be able to communicate effectively with a variety of stakeholders, including other teachers, administrators, and outside service providers.
The ability to advocate
Special education teachers are often the go-between for parents and school staff, so it’s important that you can be an advocate for your students and their families. This might mean being a sounding board for parents, Attend IEP meetings and more.
