Special Education Teacher

Welcome to The 2011 Hot Jobs Guide

Why It’s Hot:

There is more demand for special education teachers than other types of teachers, which is expected to lead to well above average job growth of 17% over the next 10 years. Experienced teachers often move into supervisory roles and the median salary of over $50,000 is nothing to sneeze at.

• What You’ll Do:

Special education teachers carry the responsibility of educating children in grades preschool to twelfth grade who are diagnosed with a number of physical, mental and emotional disabilities. They work with legally required federal paperwork called an IEP, or Individualized Educational Plan, that outlines the necessary supports, accommodations and goals for an individual child. These goals can encompass both academic and behavioral concerns. These teachers also direct meetings with parents and staff regarding the plan and make necessary adjustments throughout the myear. In the classroom, they work with children who can vary from mild to severe disabilities, using specialized techniques to help them reach their goals. Another key responsibility of being a special education teacher is collaborating with other staff to help a child improve. This can include regular education, art, music and physical educational teachers, support staff, physical and occupational therapists and administration. This individual is also responsible for doing record keeping on a child’s progress, dealing with problem behaviors and serving as a source of information and support in the regular classroom.