Special education teachers work with students-from toddlers to those in their early 20s-who have a variety of disabilities. Most special education teachers are found at the elementary, middle, and secondary school level. Special education teachers design and modify instruction to meet a student's special needs. Teachers also work with students who have other special instructional needs, including those who are gifted and talented.
Teachers can have great impact on the social, personal, and intellectual development of individuals. Their influence stems from a love of learning; a talent for awakening students to new modes of thinking; an understanding of the human development process; and professional skills. Teachers must have the ability to communicate, inspire trust and confidence, and motivate students, as well as understand their educational and emotional needs. They also should be organized, dependable, patient, and creative. A general description of teacher work activities includes: planning courses; instructing students; evaluating student performance; supervising student activities; performing administrative duties; advising students; interacting with faculty, parents, and employers; and keeping up with developments in the field. Although certification is required for public school teachers (k-12) in all 50 states, some states offer alternative teacher certification programs to attract otherwise qualified persons into the field. Aspiring teachers who need certification may also enter programs that grant a master's degree in education, as well as certification.
Salaries range greatly from one occupation, position, and work setting to another. According to the Summer 2008 NACE national salary survey for Bachelor's Degree Candidates in Special Education, the average salary was $34,546.
Council for Exceptional Children Career Connections http://www.cec.sped.org/cc/cc.htm
Jobs in Education http://www.jobsineducation.com/
Nation Job Network: Education Jobs Page http://www.nationjob.com/education/
Academic Employment Network http://www.academploy.com/
K-12 Jobs.com http://www.k12jobs.com/
The Teacher's Employment Network http://www.teachingjobs.com/
Teachers At Work http://www.teachersatwork.com/
Teachers-Teachers.com http://www.teachers-teachers.com/index2.cfm
Teaching Jobs Overseas http://joyjobs.com/
The Council for Exceptional Children http://www.cec.sped.org
Assistive Technology http://www.dreamms.org
The National Clearinghouse for Professions in Special Education http://www.specialedcareers.org/
The Teacher's Planet http://www.teachersplanet.com/
Center for the Study of Autism http://www.autism.org/
Education World http://www.education-world.com/
The Education Web Page http://www.a1education.com