How much does a special ed teacher make?

In the U.S., pay can rise with experience, advanced education, or valued credentials. It also differs by location and employer, such as a local school district versus a private school. Extra work hours or summer programs can affect total earnings.

Teach academic, social, and life skills to middle school students with learning, emotional, or physical disabilities. Includes teachers who specialize and work with students who are blind or have visual impairments; students who are deaf or have hearing impairments; and students with intellectual disabilities. Excludes “Substitute Teachers, Short-Term” (25-3031).

What's a typical day like?

They teach adapted lessons to a whole class, a small group, or one student at a time, then check progress toward each learner’s goals. They update IEP records and meet with families and other teachers to plan support.

In the U.S., earn a bachelor’s degree in special education or another allowed field, and complete supervised student teaching. Then pass the required state tests and get a state license for the grades and special education area you’ll teach; rules vary by state.

Usually a bachelor's degree (preparation level 4 of 5)

Good for people who like helping and teaching and creating.

A student's IEP must be reviewed at least once a year, and the team can change it if goals aren't being met.