High School Special Education Teacher

Your Fit

Income

$67K

Preparation

Considerable

Growth

0.5%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a High School Special Education Teacher?

A High School Special Education Teacher specializes in educating and supporting high school students with a range of disabilities, including learning, mental, emotional, and physical disabilities. They focus on adapting curriculum and teaching strategies to meet the diverse needs of their students and prepare them for life after high school.

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with High School Special Education Teacher.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

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How much does a High School Special Education Teacher earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) is...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$48K per year	$57K per year	$67K per year	$84K per year	$107K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $19K above the national average.

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What does a High School Special Education Teacher do?

Work environment

These teachers work in public and private high schools, special education centers, and sometimes in residential facilities. The work environment is tailored to support the educational and developmental needs of students with disabilities, which may include specialized classroom equipment and assistive technology. Collaboration with other educators, parents, and support staff is a key component.

Quick task list

Develops and implements Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for each student.
Adapts teaching methods and materials to meet the diverse learning needs of students.
Assesses student abilities and monitors their progress.
Collaborates with other teachers, specialists, and families to support student development.
Prepares students for life after high school through life skills training and career education.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Learning Disabilities: Focusing on students with dyslexia, dyscalculia, and other learning challenges.
Emotional and Behavioral Disorders: Working with students who have significant emotional or behavioral challenges.
Autism Spectrum Disorders: Specializing in teaching students on the autism spectrum.
Physical Disabilities: Adapting teaching for students with physical impairments or mobility issues.
Transition Services: Focusing on preparing students for post-high school life, including employment and independent living.

Description

High School Special Education Teachers play a critical role in the academic and personal development of students with special needs. They are responsible for creating an inclusive, supportive learning environment that recognizes and accommodates the individual needs of each student. These educators work closely with students to develop their academic skills, as well as social, emotional, and life skills. Their goal is to help students reach their full potential and prepare for life beyond high school, whether that includes further education, employment, or independent living.

The job involves continuous collaboration with other education professionals, including general education teachers, school counselors, and therapists, to provide comprehensive support to students. Special Education Teachers also maintain close communication with families to ensure a consistent and effective approach to each student's education and development. They need to be adept at modifying curriculum, using various teaching methods, and employing assistive technologies to enhance student learning.

Being a High School Special Education Teacher requires patience, creativity, and a deep understanding of diverse educational needs. It's a role that demands empathy and the ability to build strong, trusting relationships with students. Educators in this field need to be flexible and adaptive, constantly seeking the most effective ways to reach and teach their students.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Making a significant difference in the lives of students with special needs.
Seeing students achieve personal and academic growth.
Developing close, impactful relationships with students and their families.
The challenge and diversity of working with a wide range of disabilities.

You might make a good High School Special Education Teacher if you are...

Passionate about working with young people with special needs.
Patient, empathetic, and skilled in individualized instruction.
Innovative and resourceful in your approach to teaching and problem-solving.
Strong in communication and collaboration with a team-oriented mindset.
Dedicated to continuous learning and professional development in special education.

Pros:

Deeply rewarding and impactful work.
High demand for qualified special education professionals.
Opportunities for creativity in teaching and curriculum development.

Cons:

Emotionally and physically demanding.
Complex challenges in meeting diverse student needs.
Administrative and paperwork responsibilities related to IEPs and student assessments.

How to become a High School Special Education Teacher

Typical education

Becoming a High School Special Education Teacher typically requires a bachelor's degree in special education or a related field, which takes about 4 years. Additionally, a state certification or licensure in special education is required, which may include additional coursework and student teaching experience.

High school preparation

Courses:

Psychology or Child Development to understand learning and behavioral patterns.
Education courses, if available, for a foundation in teaching principles.
Health or Anatomy to learn about physical and developmental challenges.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Volunteering with organizations that serve individuals with special needs.
Participating in peer tutoring or mentoring programs.
Involvement in clubs or activities that promote inclusivity and understanding of disabilities.

Preparation after high school

Obtain a bachelor's degree in special education or a related field.
Complete student teaching experiences, preferably in a high school setting with special education focus.
Acquire state certification or licensure in special education, which may include additional coursework and exams.
Consider pursuing a master's degree or additional certifications in specific areas of special education for further expertise and career advancement.

More resources

Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) - Provides resources, standards, and advocacy for special education professionals.
National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET) - Offers professional development, resources, and support for special education teachers.
The Iris Center - Features a wide range of resources and materials focused on special education and disabilities.
Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) - Offers federal guidance, resources, and funding information for special education.

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