The Secret Lives of Special Education Teachers
Email this articleEducating children with special needs requires patience and perseverance. If you're interested in a satisfying career that can change lives, a degree in special education may be just the thing for you.
A Unique Education Degree
Special education teachers are a highly dedicated group of professionals who educate students with medical or learning disabilities. Currently there are over five million children in the United States with autism, mental retardation, cerebral palsy, or a learning disability. These exceptional students need a special education program tailored to their needs and learning styles--that's where you might fit in! Career training specifically in special education is necessary if you want to pursue a profession in this field. Although they differ by state, licensing requirements for special education teachers almost always include the completion of a master's degree in special education. Coursework in special education often includes educational psychology, child development, and special education laws.On-the Job Rewards
What will your day-to-day life be like as a special ed teacher? Here are a few of the most important activities:- Identifying students with special needs
- Creating individualized education plans for each pupil
- Modifying curricula and evaluations for students
- Working with parents and general education teachers to best meet students' needs
About the Author
Chloe Dowley is writer, educator, and Spanish interpreter. She earned her B.A. in education and sociology at Swarthmore College.
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Special Education Certification: Learning to Care - A special education certification can give you the credentials you need to make a difference to some very special children and adults.
