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Becoming a special education teacher requires a bachelor’s degree, specialized courses, student teaching, a credential in special education, passing teacher competency exams, and certification. Different states have different requirements, but the process is similar to becoming any other type of teacher.
It takes a lot of patience, caring, and understanding to be a good special education teacher. Working with students with special needs can be challenging, and many days will be challenging, but there are many other days that will bring triumph and a great sense of accomplishment. Being a special education teacher is not that different from being any other type of teacher. There are different types of courses, but the process is still similar.
The path to becoming a special education teacher begins with earning a bachelor’s degree. Many students choose to major in education, and there are several colleges that offer a four-year degree in special education. An education degree is not required, however, as it is possible to take education classes later while earning your teaching credential.
There are more specialized classes to prepare to become a special education teacher. Courses such as educational psychology, legal issues in special education, and strategy courses for teachers of children with disabilities are common. Different states have different educational requirements, but most require students to attend many specialized courses for children with special needs.
Student teaching offers prospective teachers a chance to work with students and get a feel for the work. This is one of the most valuable experiences a student will have before entering the teaching profession. By the end of the term they are assigned, students will have learned many of the skills needed to become proficient special education teachers.
After graduating from a baccalaureate program, most states require students to return to school to earn a credential in special education before they can teach. Some states allow students to teach while completing a credentialing program, and some states do not require an additional year. After graduating from this program, students can complete the teacher certification required to become special education teachers.
All prospective teachers are required to take the teacher competency exams before starting their teaching careers. These assessment tests are designed to test students on their knowledge of teaching practices and, in this case, special education issues. Some states require prospective teachers to take these tests before teaching students, but nearly everyone interested in a teaching career needs to take them eventually.
The last step to becoming a special education teacher is to apply for certification. Once you’ve met all the other requirements, this step is easy. There is usually a fee to be submitted with the paperwork, and upon approval, a teacher can officially start their first year on the job. It is important to be aware of the fact that different states have different certification requirements. Many states, however, will honor a teaching license from another state without the teacher needing to meet other requirements.
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