special education teacher

What Is a Special Education Teacher?

by Carrie Hall, PhD

What Is a Special Education Teacher, and What Do They Do?

A special education teacher is a teacher who supports students with disabilities in accessing the general education curriculum by working collaboratively with a team to design individual education plans (IEPs) , actively implementing the plans by providing individualized instruction, and monitoring learning progress.

Special education teachers are trained to work with students with the classifications of mild/moderate and moderate/severe disabilities. They are responsible for legal compliance with the individual education plans, ensuring that students receive what is described in the plan and that paperwork is completed within the timeframe required by law.

The work of special education teachers also includes:

• Communicating their plans with the families of students
• Providing instruction that fits students’ needs
• Participating in frequent student observations
• Overseeing the work of paraprofessionals (sometimes called instructional aides or teacher assistants) with the students
• Case managing student eligibility, learning progress, and individual education plans 

A special education teacher is compassionate, organized, and has a heart for working with students who need help accessing the general education curriculum without scaffolding, accommodations and/or modifications.

Ultimately, they are advocates for students who often struggle to advocate for themselves. They think outside the box and often find creative ways to meet students’ needs. Special education teachers are excellent communicators who look for ways to support general education teachers in best serving their students with academic, learning, social, behavioral and emotional needs.

Which Students Do Special Education Teachers Work With?

Special education teachers only work with students who have an individual education plan (IEP) , a written legal document mandated by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). 

An IEP serves as a road map that specifically identifies the special education instruction, support and services a learner needs to access the general education curriculum. It is designed to be tailored to the individual learner and their needs.

IEPs are given to eligible learners, ages 3 and up, who attend public or charter schools. Eligibility for an IEP is evaluated when a learner needs additional services to access and learn the general education curriculum.

To be eligible for an IEP, a learner must need specialized instruction to make progress in school and have one or more of the 13 identified conditions that are covered under IDEA eligibility. These include:

• Specific learning disabilities
• Autism spectrum disorder
• Visual impairment (including blindness)
• Hearing impairment
• Intellectual disability
• Traumatic brain injury
• Deaf-blindness
• Emotional behavior disability
• Speech and language impairment
• Orthopedic impairment
• Multiple disabilities
• Other health impairment

IEPs are created, reviewed and evaluated by a team that includes:

• The parents or guardians of the student
• The student (usually in middle school and high school)
• The general education teacher
• The special education teacher
• The school psychologist
• Various specialists (occupational therapist, speech and language pathologist, etc.)
• The school counselor
• The building administrator

IEPs are reviewed by the team once a year, and the learner is reevaluated every three years to determine whether the services are still needed. 

Why Become a Special Education Teacher?

Knowing you were a part of the growth, progress and success of students is incredibly rewarding. By becoming a special education teacher, you will be equipped with the knowledge and expertise to meet the needs of students with disabilities and advocate for them.

The joys of being a special education teacher include witnessing successes such as:

• A student demonstrating progress toward a goal on their IEP
• A student starting to attend school again
• A student who struggled with social skills making friends and maintaining friendships
• A general education teacher who thought “I can’t” shifting their mindset to “I can” when working with students with disabilities
• A student learning to advocate for themselves about what they need to be successful
• A family member sharing their gratitude for what this has meant for their child outside of school
• A student’s excitement when they realize they’re able to do something that they couldn’t before

Is There Demand for Special Education Teachers?  

There is a severe shortage of special education teachers, both in Oregon and nationally. The Oregonian reported that in the 2022-23 school year, there were 131 emergency teaching licenses issued in Oregon for people teaching special education .

School districts hiring individuals on emergency teaching licenses must show that they struggled to hire someone fully qualified. People filling the role of a special education teacher on an emergency license have not had the training to be adequately prepared to meet the needs of students with disabilities.

How Do I Become a Special Education Teacher in Oregon?

In Oregon, the route to becoming a special education teacher depends on your prior education. Each path will include testing requirements through the Teachers Standards and Practices Commission (TSPC) that are required components for the completion of your teaching program.

Here are some scenarios and the pathway to becoming a special education teacher for each:

I Have No College Credits, Some College Credits, or an Associate’s Degree

If you haven’t earned a bachelor’s degree yet, your options are:

• Complete a bachelor’s degree in special education and earn a preliminary teaching license, or
• Earn a special education endorsement, or
• Complete a masters in education with a special education endorsement

George Fox University offers both a traditional on-campus bachelor’s in elementary education as well as an online accelerated bachelor’s degree in education .

I Have a Bachelor’s Degree, But Need a Preliminary Teaching License

To earn a preliminary teaching license, you need to complete a teacher preparation program. Since you already have a bachelor’s degree, a master of arts in teaching (MAT) is your best next step. You can earn your MAT and then get a special education endorsement afterward, but it’s generally faster to complete an MAT program that combines both.

George Fox University's online Masters in Special Education program is your fastest route to becoming a special education teacher, though it does not prepare you to teach in general education settings.

George Fox University’s MAT Plus Special Education program enables you to earn your MAT degree and special education endorsement together, preparing you to be licensed and endorsed to teach in both general and special education settings.

I Have a Bachelor’s Degree and a Preliminary Teaching License

If you’re already a licensed teacher with a bachelor’s degree, then you just need the additional training for special education to become a special education teacher. You can either complete a stand-alone special education endorsement program (recommended if you already have a master’s degree) or a masters in education (MEd) program with a built-in special education endorsement.

George Fox University offers both a special education endorsement-only program and a masters in education with a special education endorsement .

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Your Guide on How to Become a Special Education Teacher

In the 2021-2022 school year, 7.3 million students—representing 15% of all public school students—received services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). 1 Special education teachers enrich the lives of students who face cognitive, physical, or emotional challenges by helping them access the general curriculum or develop essential life skills. Because of the unique needs of these students, it takes tremendous dedication and energy to be a special education teacher.

As highly-trained professionals, special education teachers balance meeting the needs of students in the classroom with managing the administrative work of creating and complying with multiple individualized education plans (IEPs). 2

Keep reading to learn more about what a special education teacher does and how you can obtain the education needed to become one.

What does a special education teacher do?

A special education teacher usually works in an elementary, middle, or high school to support students with dis/abilities. While special education teachers have many of the same duties as traditional teachers, because their students have additional needs, they also have additional responsibilities. 3 Some of the specific job requirements of a special education teacher are discussed below.

Develop Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)

An IEP is a legally-binding document outlining the educational goals, accommodations, and services a student with special needs requires to succeed academically. IDEA mandates that public schools offer a “free appropriate public education” to eligible students with dis/abilities. Schools must develop an IEP for each student who qualifies for special education services. Special education teachers work with parents, caregivers, and other professionals to develop an effective IEP for each student. 4

Plan lessons and adapt curriculum

Like other teachers, special education teachers plan lessons for the students in their classes. However, they have to adapt the curriculum to meet the needs of their students and comply with the IEP accommodations and goals.

Before adapting the curriculum, the special education teacher first identifies each student's unique needs—ranging from cognitive and learning challenges to sensory impairments and behavioral issues—covered in the IEP. The special education teacher then sets achievable learning objectives tailored to each student, providing a roadmap for what the adapted lessons should achieve.

Textbooks, worksheets, and other educational resources may need modification. For example, a student with reading difficulties might require audio books or simplified text, while a visually impaired student may need Braille materials. Special education teachers often work with professionals, such as speech therapists or occupational therapists, to incorporate their expertise into lesson plans. 5

Manage behavior

Special education students often face behavioral challenges that can interfere with their learning and social development. Special education teachers typically approach behavioral management by assessing the root causes of a student’s behavior. This may be done in conjunction with the student’s academic assessment.

They may consult psychologists or behavioral therapists to identify triggers, patterns, and underlying issues contributing to specific behaviors. As with academic goals, behavioral goals are often incorporated into a student’s IEP. 6

To help students meet their behavioral goals, a special education teacher may use techniques such as positive reinforcement, visual or auditory cueing, and social skills training. 7 They continuously assess the effectiveness of their strategies and make adjustments as needed, often revisiting and revising the behavioral goals set in the IEP.

Education requirements to teach special education

Becoming a special education teacher requires specialized training to develop the skills and knowledge needed to meet the needs of students with dis/abilities. The general process typically includes a combination of formal education and practical experience.

Bachelor’s degree

You can obtain a four-year bachelor of special education that offers general and special education coursework. A bachelor’s degree will generally cover not only general education, but also topics such as assessing students, modifying the curriculum and learning environment to meet their needs, and special education law. 8

Practical experience

As part of your bachelor’s degree, you’ll complete a practicum or internship for 16 weeks. 8 Through this experience, you’ll gain hands-on practice working with children with special needs with the supervision of an experienced special education teacher. The practicum usually begins with a period of observation, followed by a period of co-teaching or teaching small groups in the mentor teacher’s classroom. 9

State exams and certification

Each state has its own guidelines, and you can check with your state Board of Education to find the licensing requirements for your state. Many states use the Praxis II exams, which test your knowledge in specific areas. The special education Praxis II exam tests core knowledge and applications. The test includes 120 questions, and you have two hours to take it. It covers the following content categories: 10

• Development and Characteristics of Learners
• Planning and the Learning Environment
• Instruction
• Foundations and Professional Responsibilities

Graduate degree

If your undergraduate degree isn’t in special education, or you want to advance your career, pursuing a master’s degree can be an excellent option. A master’s in special education can open doors to specialized and higher-paying positions. 11

Board certification

National Board Certification is a voluntary process which establishes national standards for what teachers should know and be able to do. Teachers who want to pursue National Board Certification can apply to the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS). The certification process is demanding, but challenges teachers to grow and improve even further. 12

Exploring the opportunities and challenges for special education teachers today

Being a special education teacher is both rewarding and challenging. Most special education teachers work in public schools, but there are also ample opportunities in private schools. Private schools typically have different hiring requirements, and some might offer smaller class sizes or more specialized programs.

Job growth and salary for special education teaching careers

The demand for specialized educators remains high due to persistent shortages in the special education teaching field. 13 According to the U.S. Department of Education, 42 states and Washington, D.C. face a shortage of special education teachers. 13 Denise Marshall of The Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA) points out the repercussions, such as schools limiting crucial services in students' IEPs. 13

With an increase of 800,000 special education students over a decade and anticipated teacher retirements, there's an urgent call for more investment in special education training. 13

While the special education teacher salary varies based on location, experience, and education level, having advanced degrees or additional certifications can potentially increase earning potential and helps to ensure special education teachers are fully prepared for diverse classroom settings and the field’s unique challenges.

Collaborative efforts: How special education teachers work with general education teachers

A special education teacher works not only in traditional classroom settings but also in resource centers, residential facilities, and inclusive learning environments. They often collaborate with other teachers, especially general education teachers, to ensure that students with dis/abilities have access to the general education curriculum.

This collaboration is critical, as it allows for the integration of specialized techniques into the mainstream classroom, benefitting all students.

Additional training and endorsements

Beyond a bachelor's degree and state-required certification, many special education teachers opt for continuing education courses to stay updated on teaching methods, classroom management, and special education law. Some also pursue a special education endorsement, which further qualifies them to work with students with specific conditions like autism spectrum disorders.

The reward of teaching special education

Teaching special education is not just about following the education requirements; it's a profound commitment to shaping the futures of exceptional students. Special education teachers provide valuable resources and tailored support, ensuring that their students not only grasp the general education curriculum but also develop essential basic life skills.

Understanding the range of learning dis/abilities and conditions, from autism spectrum disorders to physical impairments, is paramount. This understanding allows these educators to craft individualized strategies, fostering environments where students develop both academically and personally.

Moreover, many special education teachers work collaboratively with other staff members and professionals. By teaming up with general education teachers, they ensure that special education students are integrated and have equitable access to learning opportunities in mainstream classrooms. Their role often extends beyond traditional classroom teaching, delving into areas of counseling, mentorship, and life coaching.

For those pondering on how to become a special education teacher, it's crucial to appreciate that the profession demands immense patience, empathy, and continuous learning. From navigating special education law to staying updated with innovative teaching methods, it's a career that calls for dedication and passion.

However, the rewards are immeasurable. Whether it's witnessing a student overcome a learning obstacle or being a pillar of support for families navigating the challenges of dis/abilities, the impact of a special education teacher is profound and lasting.

In this noble profession, educators don't just teach; they transform lives, ensuring that every student, irrespective of their challenges, has the tools and encouragement to succeed in the classroom and the broader world.

In conclusion, with the right training, passion, and dedication, you can truly make an impact in the lives of students as an exceptional special education teacher.

Advance your teaching career with KU, the leader in special education

If you’re ready to take the next step in becoming a special education teacher, the University of Kansas School of Education and Human Sciences offers the #1 Online Master's in Special Education program . 14 KU's experienced faculty members will help you develop the skills you need to become a leader in special education.

You can customize your learning path by choosing from one of four specialties, including:

• Autism spectrum disorder
• Leadership in inclusive and special education
• High incidence disabilities
• Secondary special education and transition

Contact one of our admissions outreach advisors today to learn more.

• Retrieved on September 25, 2023, from nces.ed.gov/programs/coe/indicator/cgg/students-with-disabilities#:~:text=In%202021%E2%80%9322%2C%20the%20number,of%20all%20public%20school%20students
• Retrieved on September 25, 2023, from careerexplorer.com/careers/special-education-teacher
• Retrieved on September 25, 2023, from bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/special-education-teachers.htm#tab-2
• Retrieved on September 25, 2023, from www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/docs/edlite-FAPE504.html
• Retrieved on September 25, 2023, from fullspedahead.com/9-ways-to-adapt-curriculum-in-special-education/
• Retrieved on September 25, 2023, from behaviorist.com/what-is-a-functional-behavior-assessment-fba-in-special-education
• Retrieved on September 25, 2023, from insightstobehavior.com/blog/special-education-classroom-behavior-management-strategies-k12
• Retrieved on September 25, 2023, from indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-become-a-special-education-teacher
• Retrieved on September 25, 2023, from files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ937171.pdf
• Retrieved on September 25, 2023, from ets.org/content/dam/ets-org/pdfs/praxis/5354.pdf
• Retrieved on September 25, 2023, from epicspecialeducationstaffing.com/how-to-become-a-special-education-teacher-in-4-steps
• Retrieved on September 25, 2023, from nea.org/professional-excellence/professional-learning/teacher-licensure/national-board-certification
• Retrived on September 25, 2023, from disabilityscoop.com/2023/08/17/special-education-teacher-shortage-persists-nationally/30500/
• Retrieved on September 25, 2023, from usnews.com/education/online-education/education/online-special-education-rankings

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How to Become a Special Education Teacher

Jump to section, what are the requirements for special education teachers, who will my students be, what does a special education teacher do, special education teacher jobs & job description, where can certified special education teachers teach, special education teacher organizations & associations, what is the salary of a special education teacher.

Great teachers empathize with children, respect them, and believe that each one has something special that can be built on. Ann Lieberman

A career as a special education teacher will involve instructing students with emotional, physical and learning disabilities. Special education teachers may work with individuals of all ages from infants to adults. Their job will consist of helping their students develop problem solving, motor and social skills needed to complete their education and live independent lives. They may work with their students on personal and life skills in addition to academic curriculum and advancement.

Qualities of a Special Education Teacher

Special education teacher requirements include fantastic communication skills since they will be working with students, parents, and educators. They must be able to work in a one-on-one setting with students as well as in a group setting. Being able to meet the individual needs of their students is very important. Good computer skills and organization skills are important due to needing to keep detailed records of each student's progress. Being familiar with assistive technology devices in a classroom is a plus. An encouraging personality as well as the ability to be creative and flexible are all great qualities for a special education teacher.

Job Growth for Special Education Teachers

The employment growth for special education teachers is 3% at the national level for the 10-year period ending in 2029, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This will vary according to which state you live in, however, and be driven by increased demand for special education services, and the need to replace teachers leaving their occupations.

All certified special education teachers in the United States must have at least a bachelor's degree and hold a state-issued license or certificate specific to teaching special education students. However, each state has their own specific licensing requirements.

Education Requirements for Special Education Teachers

Many universities and colleges offer special education degrees at the bachelor's, master's and doctoral levels.

Special education teacher degree classes will include gaining knowledge of disabilities like autism, downs syndrome, visual impairment and more. Students will also learn practical procedures for teaching science, math and reading skills to students who have special needs.

Specialized classes could examine topics like technology for differentiated instruction, low incidence disabilities and more. Special education teacher training will also include curriculum development courses and supervised classroom student teaching. Most special education teachers earn a degree in Special Education or Education .

Special Education Teacher Preparation Program

If your school does not offer a degree in special education, you can enroll in a special education teacher preparation program after receiving your degree. This type of program will lead you toward becoming a certified special education teacher. Licensure/certification can be attained through the completion of a teacher education program that is accredited by CAEP (Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation). Due to the high level of specialization among special education teachers, many states may require additional training before you can get a professional license.

Tests to Pass if you Want to Become a Special Education Teacher

Prospective special education teachers are also required to take and pass all special education content area assessments in order to obtain certification at the special education level. These standardized tests vary from state to state. Licensing and competency exams should be taken in the state where you wish to teach.

Find Information About Becoming a Teacher In Your State

Each state has different requirements for becoming a certified teacher. To find out specific requirements, click on your state.

• Connecticut
• Massachusetts
• Mississippi
• New Hampshire
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Washington, DC
• West Virginia

Special Education Teacher by Degree Level

The tables and charts below break down the education level obtained as averaged across the U.S.

Data taken from BLS Educational attainment for workers 25 years and older by detailed occupation, 2010-11 (http://www.bls.gov/emp/ep_table_111.htm)

Special education teachers will have students with learning, physical and emotional disabilities. Many special education students may have delayed motor and social skills and will need to be worked with in these areas on a daily basis. Special education students can range from pre-k to 12th grade, depending on your area of specialty.

Special education teachers will work with students who have a wide range of disabilities ranging from learning, physical, mental and emotional. They are responsible for adapting general education lessons to meet the needs of their students. Subjects taught include reading, writing and math as well as basic skills like literacy and communication techniques. Their students may have disabilities ranging from mild to moderate to severe.

Job Duty Requirements for Special Education Teachers

Special education teachers must be able to meet their students' needs to ensure that each individual student receives proper attention and the assistance needed to succeed in school and life. This may include providing one-on-one assistance in the setting of a general classroom, adapting materials, providing appropriate testing opportunities and more.

Special education teachers provide the families of their students the tools they need to grow as independent individuals in their communities. These teachers work with parents, other teachers and paraprofessionals to create individual education plans (IEP) for their students in order to help meet the individual needs of each child.

A complex and demanding career path, the role of the special education teacher is difficult to encapsulate briefly, given that every teacher's caseload of students looks very different from the next. While there are similarities between elementary to secondary, there are differences as well.

Becoming an Elementary Special Education Teacher

Often considered a generalist (though perhaps with special interest or training in one or two areas of need) elementary special education teachers work hard to ensure that students with special needs are able to achieve all their abilities dictate that they can. Elementary special education teachers:

• Work with students who have Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD), autism, Asperger's syndrome, those who are blind, low-vision, deaf or hard-of-hearing, who have Central Auditory Processing Delays (CAP-D), physical disabilities, cognitive impairments or developmental delays.
• Spearhead the development of an Individual Education Plan each year as a working document for teachers, support staff, administrators, guardians/parents, and other professionals to contribute to in order to ensure best outcomes for students
• Outline accommodation and/or modification and/or alternate programming to classroom tasks
• Meet with parents/guardians and internal and external stakeholders for an annual review of IEP particulars and program goals, known as Identification, Placement, and Review Committee (IPRC) meetings
• Mentor and advise professional support staff such as speech pathology, audiology, interpreting, psychological assessment, occupational therapy, social work and medical services
• Ensure that accommodations or modifications during instructional time are also in place during assessments
• Create a transition plan from year to year, and from elementary to high school with post-secondary planning being a relevant goal and timeline
• Set academic and developmental goals for students to strive for - ensure that metrics are in place so that every success is measurable
• Communicate proactively and professionally about student assessment and behavior with teaching and non-teaching staff, individual students, their families and associated professionals, bearing in mind the impact of confidentiality regarding vulnerable persons
• Support the school's culture and practices for inclusion through extracurricular and co-curricular activities and staff leadership

Becoming a High School Special Education Teacher

Often considered a specialist (though perhaps a generalist due to diversity of need or size of school population) high school special education teachers work hard to ensure that students with special needs are able to achieve all their abilities dictate that they can, and then some. High school special education teachers:

• Assess student learning needs in the classroom on a holistic basis, taking into account the students current and past achievements, current cultural and familial framework, and future goals
• Spearhead the continuation of an accurate and effective Individual Education Plan each year as an editable working document for teachers, support staff, administrators, guardians/parents, and other professionals to contribute to in order to ensure best outcomes for student growth
• Act as a daily point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, including the student themselves as their individual need dictates
• Act as a friendly face and advocate, helping students learn the valuable skill of self-advocacy as they approach the end of high school
• Function as a resource for school to work transitioning
• Advocate for and promote students for extensive co-operative education placements both in and outside of the school
• Outline accommodation and/or modification and/or alternate programming to classroom tasks; keep rigorous metrics
• Proactively meet with parents/guardians and internal and external stakeholders for an annual review of IEP particulars and program goals, known as Identification, Placement, and Review Committee (IPRC) meetings
• Suggest beneficial reductions in support for the student to foster self-reliance, reduction in vulnerability, and independence
• Understand theories of adolescent development and how special needs may alter these developmental arcs
• Advocate on behalf of the student's needs to classroom teachers and administration, either individually and on an ad-hoc basis or in a more formal setting
• In-service teaching staff, support staff and administration on student behavior and general best practices for interaction and engagement
• Create a transition plan from year to year, and from high school to post-secondary education or job training. Ensure timelines are accurate; work backward from end-goal.
• Set academic and developmental goals for students to strive for - ensure that metrics are in place so that every small success is measurable

Certified special education teachers have many employment avenues open to them, including consultation, policy development, advocacy and administration.

Special education teachers can work in elementary schools, charter schools and private schools.

Public Schools

Public schools are required to admit any student who lives within the district, regardless of ability, ethnicity or socioeconomic backgrounds. In public schools, special education teachers tend to work with a diverse group of children with varying needs. Prospective public special education teachers are often required to apply directly to the district prior to seeking employment at a specific school.

Private Schools

Since private schools charge tuition for a child to attend, special education services are generally not free. Many smaller private schools do not even offer special education services. With that said, families of students with special needs may be required to hire a private one-on-one aide to assist the child. These schools are generally governed by a private school board or organization and may have religious affiliations.

If a prospective special education teacher is interested in teaching at a private school, they should check with the school in which they wish to teach to find out specific criteria. Many private schools do not have the same requirements for special education teachers as their public school counterparts. In some cases, relevant experience or a bachelor's degree will suffice.

Charter Schools

Charter schools are independent schools that do not require tuition. They have more flexibility than public schools, but are expected to perform better and have a greater accountability. Charter schools are typically smaller and more selective. They may have additional requirements for their education teachers. However, some charter schools may not have dedicated special education services. To inquire, contact the charter school of your interest.

NASET - National Association of Special Education Teachers: NASET is a national membership organization dedicated to providing support and assistance to those preparing for or teaching in the field of special education.

CEC - Council for Exception Children: The Council for Exceptional Children is the largest international professional organization dedicated to improving the educational success of children and youth with disabilities and/or gifts and talents.

IASE - International Association of Special Education: The IASE works to improve the quality of life and service delivery for all individuals with special needs.

NAPSEC - National Association of Private Special Education Centers: NAPSEC is a nonprofit association that supports access to appropriate special education programs with more than 200 programs nationally and over 400 at the state level through the Council of Affiliated State Associations.

The median annual wage for special education teachers was $61,030 in 2019, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, with entry-level teachers earning less than $40,730, and the highest 10% of experienced teachers earning more than $98,530 per year.

In addition to the salary, educators get great health and retirement benefits. Given the degree of specialty training that a special education teacher receives, he or she has an average salary that is somewhat higher than their mainstream counterparts, although private school teachers do earn less than public school teachers. Like other teaching roles, salaries are based mostly on experience and education.

Visit our Teacher Salary-What to Expect? page to find out more.

(Salary data for special education teachers reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in May 2019. Figures represent state data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Information accessed March 2021.)

Special Education Teachers (Preschool)

Salary (2022) and job outlook (2012 to 2020) by state.

According to the published BLS data from 2022, the national average salary for Special Education Teachers (Preschool) is $69,620, with an estimated 22,970 being employed nationwide. Also, the job outlook growth projection from 2012 to 2020 is expected to increase by 16.2%.

Data taken from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics (http://www.bls.gov/oes/) for Special Education Teachers (Preschool) (SOC Code: 25-2051)

Salary (2022) By Largest Metropolitan Areas

Special Education Teachers (Kindergarten and Elementary School)

According to the published BLS data from 2022, the national average salary for Special Education Teachers (Kindergarten and Elementary School) is $68,580, with an estimated 195,010 being employed nationwide. Also, the job outlook growth projection from 2012 to 2020 is expected to increase by 6.2%.

Data taken from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics (http://www.bls.gov/oes/) for Special Education Teachers (Kindergarten and Elementary School) (SOC Code: 25-2052)

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• Author Guidelines for Submission of Manuscripts & Articles to NASET
• SCHOOLS of EXCELLENCE
• Exceptional Charter School in Special Education
• Outstanding Special Education Teacher Award
• Board Certification Programs
• Employers - Job Posting Information
• Latest Job Listings
• Professional Development Program (PDP)
• Employers-Post a Job on NASET
• PDP - Professional Development Courses
• Board Certification in Classroom Management (BCCM)
• Board Certification in Special Education (BCSE)
• Board Certification in IEP Development (BCIEP)
• NASET Continuing Education/Professional Development Courses
• HONOR SOCIETY - Omega Gamma Chi
• Other Resources for Special Education Teaching Positions
• Highly Qualified Teachers
• Special Education Career Advice
• Special Education Career Fact Sheets
• FAQs for Special Education Teachers
• Special Education Teacher Salaries by State
• State Licensure for Special Education Teachers

The National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET) is a national membership organization dedicated to rendering all possible support and assistance to those preparing for or teaching in the field of special education.  NASET was founded to promote the profession of special education teachers and to provide a national forum for their ideas.

The National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET) is a national professional association that seeks to meet a critical need for many of America's special education teachers. NASET was established as a professional organization for former, current, and future special education teachers who had no professional organization to call their own.  NASET develops and promotes professional excellence through the support of teachers who provide services to children with special needs.

The National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET) is dedicated to ensuring that all children and adolescents with special needs receive the best education possible. NASET serves the professional interest of special education teachers in order to promote the highest professional standards.

The National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET) helps members stay abreast of current issues that are shaping the field, affecting the lives of students, and influencing professional careers. NASET is committed to standards of excellence and innovation in educational research, practice, and policy.  NASET works to enhance professional practice for teachers of special education and to build public support for high quality special education programs.

The National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET) represents the very best in our profession. We take our direction from practicing special education teachers who have been recognized for their excellence and vision.  NASET advances and encourages the professional development of its members through networking, research, publications, and membership benefits. We hope you will take time to learn more about us and consider joining us in promoting a strong national association dedicated solely for teachers in the field of special education.

• NASET Special Education Web Site

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