Special Education Teacher jobs in the United States

The special education teacher plans and provides for appropriate learning experiences for students with disabilities in a variety of educational settings. The person in this position is responsible for creating a flexible, effective program and learning environment that provides specialized instruction for students with disabilities, such that the students benefit from the general education curriculum to the greatest extent possible when supported with supplemental aides, accommodations, and other needed supports.

A key aspect of working as a special education teacher is identifying individual needs and being responsible for creating a safe, stimulating and supportive learning environment.

Critical skills to be successful in this position include: the ability to collaborate with a team of professionals; the ability to remain calm while working with students who demonstrate significant behavior needs; the ability to supervise and mentor teacher assistants who work with students with disabilities; the firm conviction that with enough effort the student can achieve their goals; and, the ability to work closely with parents in a positive and collaborative manner.

The teacher in this position must be able to work with students who may demonstrate significant cognitive, physical, emotional, and behavioral limitations.