Special Education Teachers, Secondary School

Special Education Teachers in secondary schools work with students who have a wide range of learning, mental, emotional, and physical disabilities. Their job description typically includes: 1. Individualized Education Plans (IEPs): Developing and implementing IEPs tailored to meet each student's needs and abilities. 2. Instruction: Providing specialized instruction to help students with disabilities improve their academic and life skills. 3. Adapted Teaching Methods: Modifying general education curriculum to meet the individual needs of students with disabilities. 4. Assessment: Assessing students' progress regularly and making adjustments to instruction as necessary. 5. Collaboration: Working closely with parents, general education teachers, administrators, and other professionals to create a supportive learning environment for students with disabilities. 6. Behavior Management: Implementing behavior management techniques to address behavioral issues and promote positive behavior. 7. Resource Coordination: Coordinating support services such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling for students with disabilities. 8. Advocacy: Advocating for the educational rights of students with disabilities and ensuring that they receive appropriate accommodations and services. 9. Record Keeping: Maintaining accurate records of student progress, services provided, and communication with parents and other professionals. 10. Professional Development: Engaging in ongoing professional development to stay current on best practices in special education and teaching students with disabilities. Overall, Special Education Teachers in secondary schools play a crucial role in supporting students with disabilities to help them achieve academic success and prepare for life after graduation.

Education / Training

Special Education Teachers, Secondary School typically need at least a bachelor's degree in special education or a related field. Some states may require a master's degree for certification or licensure. Additionally, completion of a student teaching program is usually necessary to gain practical experience in the field. Special Education Teachers at this level are also required to be licensed by the state in which they work. To become a Special Education Teacher, Secondary School, completing high school is necessary as a minimum educational requirement; however, further education through college is essential to pursue this career path. Training for Special Education Teachers, Secondary School involves coursework in special education methods, instructional strategies, behavior management techniques, and assessments tailored for students with disabilities. This training often includes supervised teaching experiences in real classroom settings to apply theoretical knowledge to practice. Additionally, ongoing professional development is crucial to stay current with best practices and improve teaching skills, especially given the evolving nature of special education laws and methodologies.