Are you looking for a teaching job in special education? Well, you’re doing it right! Being a special education teacher is such a wonderful profession. That’s because they help students with disabilities to learn, grow, and succeed. Have you ever wondered how to become one? Below, a special education lawyer will share all the ways to obtain a special education credential.
What Is A Special Education Credential?
Basically, a special education credential is an endorsement that empowers the holder to handle students with disabilities. It can extend from learners who have learning disabilities, physical disabilities, or emotional challenges. Each state has its requirements in this regard; however, the general idea remains to be on training and certification in special education as our friends at K Altman Law can explain.
Why Do You Need A Special Education Credential?
Special education is a little different from general education, since students require more assistance or a modified teaching method. A special education credential gives you the option to aid these students in being successful and makes a good point for schools and parents by demonstrating that you are qualified to fulfill their needs.
Now, step by step, we can lead you through the process of obtaining this very important credential.
Step 1: Earn A Bachelor’s Degree
First, one must obtain a bachelor’s degree. Most pre-service teachers of special education major in education or special education at the undergraduate level. While some may have degrees in other fields- psychology or child development being examples, after which they become a teacher-the majority of them major in education or special education.
If you haven’t yet started classes or are not yet sure what you want to study, I would start with a degree in education.
Step 2: Get A Teacher Preparation Program
You shall have gotten your Bachelor’s degree. Next you will be required to get a teacher preparation program. This will teach you how you can become an effective special education teacher. It will encompass:
- Lesson planning
- Classroom management
- Work with children with different disabilities
This is a program that some people complete concurrently with graduating with a bachelor’s degree, and others do after the fact. You can apply to these programs independently as well, even if you have already completed a degree.
Step 3: Hands-On Experience Through Student Teaching
This is one of the most important aspects of getting a special education credential: gaining practical experience. You will do this through something known as student teaching. Under the mentorship of a seasoned teacher, you will work in an actual classroom as part of student teaching.
This gives you the chance to apply what you have learned, to work with students, and to have a daily experience of a special education classroom. Student teaching is usually a component of most teacher preparation programs.
Step 4: Pass Your State’s Licensing Exams
You want to prepare for licensure exams by your state after you’ve finished school and have completed student teaching. Each state requires you to pass certain exams before you’re licensed to teach special education. These tests will include general teaching knowledge and special education topics.
You needn’t worry – if you’ve done well in your program, you’ll be ready for these exams! Make sure you check your state’s requirements so you know which exams you’ll want to make sure you’re taking.
Step 5: Apply For Your Special Education Credential
Now you can finally apply for your special education credential after clearing all your examination papers. This is not so complicated. You have to download an application form and duly fill it in. Then, you have to provide proof for your degree and prove that you have cleared all the examination papers needed.
The moment your application forms are accepted, you will finally receive your special education credential. Hurray! You are now ready to become a special education teacher and can begin teaching.
Step 6: Starting Your Career
After possessing the credential, one can begin applying for various available special education jobs.
You will teach in a self-contained classroom, where the students all have a primary diagnosis and possibly several secondary diagnoses, or you will work as a resource teacher supporting students with special needs in general education classrooms. You will make a profound difference in the lives of your students.
Step 7: Keep Learning And Growing
That’s just the starting point. Once you become a teacher, you will see that there is always more to be learned. Many teachers seek professional development training opportunities to keep up with the best practices in teaching and with new strategies to work with students with disabilities.
Some teachers even go as far as achieving a master’s degree in special education. Remember that the more you learn, the better you will be able to help your students. Get started earning this credential with help from a professional near you.