Special Education Teacher Job Description Template
As a Special Education Teacher, you will be responsible for designing and implementing personalized learning plans to support students with disabilities. You will work closely with parents, other teachers, and specialists to ensure each student receives the necessary accommodations and modifications to succeed academically and socially.
Responsibilities
- Develop and implement individualized education programs (IEPs) for students with disabilities.
- Provide direct instruction and support to students in a variety of settings.
- Assess students' skills and learning needs and monitor their progress regularly.
- Collaborate with general education teachers and other staff to modify curricula and instructional methods.
- Communicate regularly with parents and guardians about students' progress and needs.
- Advocate for students' access to necessary resources and supports.
- Maintain accurate and thorough records of students' educational progress and IEPs.
- Participate in professional development opportunities to remain current with best practices in special education.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Special Education or a related field.
- State certification in Special Education.
- Experience working with students with disabilities.
- Strong understanding of IEP development and implementation.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Patience, creativity, and a passion for helping students succeed.
Skills
- IEP development
- Behavioral management
- Differentiated instruction
- Classroom management
- Collaboration
- Communication
- Assessment tools
- Assistive technology
Frequently Asked Questions
A Special Education Teacher works with students who have a wide range of learning, mental, emotional, and physical disabilities. They adapt general education lessons and teach various subjects to students with mild to moderate disabilities. These teachers develop Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), track student progress, collaborate with parents and school staff, and use techniques to promote a conducive learning environment tailored to meet each student's needs.
To become a Special Education Teacher, one typically needs a bachelor's degree in special education or a related field. It is also essential to obtain a teaching license specific to special education, which may require passing state-specific exams. Some states or schools may require a master's degree in special education, especially for advanced positions. Additional skills in behavior management and communication are highly beneficial.
The average salary for a Special Education Teacher varies depending on location, experience, and education level. Special Education Teachers typically earn salaries within a competitive range that reflects their essential role within education. Factors such as advanced certifications, additional teaching endorsements, and tenure can influence earning potential within this rewarding career field.
Qualifications for a Special Education Teacher generally include a bachelor’s degree in special education. Furthermore, a teaching license specific to special education is required, which may involve specific exams. Some positions might also demand a master’s degree and experience working with diverse disabilities. Certifications in areas like autism or behavior management can enhance career prospects.
Special Education Teachers must be skilled in creating and implementing IEPs, possess strong communication abilities for interactions with diverse stakeholders, and have patience and empathy. Responsibilities include adapting curricula, assessing student progress, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. Proficiency in behavior management and the ability to utilize assistive technologies in student learning are also vital.