Special Education Teachers
Educators who work with students with learning, mental, emotional, or physical disabilities from preschool through high school.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook HandbookSpecial education teachers adapt general education lessons for students with mild to moderate disabilities and teach basic literacy and daily living skills to those with severe disabilities. Their core duties include assessing student needs, developing and implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and collaborating with parents, counselors, and specialists to track student progress.
Entry into the profession typically requires a bachelor's degree and state-issued certification or licensure, often involving a teacher preparation program and supervised student teaching. As of May 2025, the median annual wage for this role is $67,170.
While the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects little to no change in overall employment from 2025 to 2035, other sources report persistent demand pressures and teacher shortages driven by the rising enrollment of students with disabilities.