special education teacher with master's salary in texas

Special Education Teacher Salary in Texas

How much does a Special Education Teacher make in Texas? The average Special Education Teacher salary in Texas is $61,574 as of April 24, 2024, but the range typically falls between $48,541 and $80,641 . Salary ranges can vary widely depending on the city and many other important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession.

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Instructor in Teacher Education Dept - Part-Time (Summer FY24 ONLY)

Texas Tech University - Lubbock, TX

Assistant Professor of Special Education in Deaf and Hard of Hearing

Continuing Education Adjunct, Teacher Certification CTE-CE

Lone Star College - Tomball, TX

Adjunct - Teacher Education

Lee College - Baytown, TX

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What skills does a Special Education Teacher need?

Each competency has five to ten behavioral assertions that can be observed, each with a corresponding performance level (from one to five) that is required for a particular job.

Analysis: Analysis is the process of considering something carefully or using statistical methods in order to understand it or explain it.

CPR: Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) combines rescue breathing (mouth-to-mouth) and chest compressions to temporarily pump enough blood to the brain until specialized treatment is available.

Background Check: A background check or background investigation is a review of a potential employee's criminal, commercial and financial records. The goal of background checks is to ensure the safety and security of the employees in the organisation

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Job Description for Special Education Teacher

Special Education Teacher instructs special education students in a classroom setting. Prepares lesson plans and instructional materials designed to meet the needs of individual students. Being a Special Education Teacher develops individualized education plans, and evaluates and monitors students' performance. Resolves classroom issues and conflicts. Additionally, Special Education Teacher may provide behavioral consultation or implement therapeutic programs for students. May mentor teaching aides. Requires a bachelor's degree. May require state-specific special education teaching license. Typically requires Basic Life Support (BLS) certification. Typically reports to a principal. The Special Education Teacher occasionally directed in several aspects of the work. Gaining exposure to some of the complex tasks within the job function. To be a Special Education Teacher typically requires 2 -4 years of related experience. (Copyright 2024 Salary.com)... View full job description

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• Assistant Professor of Special Education in Deaf and Hard of Hearing Texas Tech University - Lubbock, TX Assistant Professor of Special Education in Deaf and Hard of Hearing. 35496BR. EDUC Special Education EDSP. Position Description. Contributes to the univer... - 1 Day Ago
• Continuing Education Adjunct, Teacher Certification CTE-CE Lone Star College - Tomball, TX Commitment to Mission. This job carries with it the obligation to uphold the Mission of Lone Star College (LSC) in carrying out the duties of the position.... - 5 Days Ago
• Adjunct - Teacher Education Lee College - Baytown, TX Position Overview. Adjunct faculty are hired in a part-time capacity on an as needed basis. These positions are filled prior to or during the start of each... - 1 Day Ago
• Part Time Special Education Soccer Instructor ($25+/hr) Super Soccer Stars - Plano, TX Are you FUN, energetic, creative and LOVE working with children. If so, we at Super Soccer Stars are looking for you. We are looking for coaches for our Sp... - 4 Days Ago

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About Texas

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About Texas     Texas (/ˈtɛksəs/, locally /ˈtɛksɪz/; Spanish: Texas or Tejas Spanish pronunciation: [ˈtexas] (listen)) is the second largest state in the United State.... More

Skills associated with Special Education Teacher: Student Information Systems (SIS) , Children's Activities , Monitor Student Performance , Academic Focus: Special Education ... More

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Special education teacher salary in Texas

The average salary for a special education teacher in Texas is around $57,960 per year.

Special education teachers earn an average yearly salary of $ 57,960 . Wages typically start from $ 43,360 and go up to $ 76,740 .

13 % below national average ● Updated in 2018

Special education teacher earnings by seniority

Top-level special education teacher earnings begin at :.

$ 36.89 per hour

$ 76,740 per year

Senior-level special education teacher earnings begin at :

$ 31.19 per hour

$ 64,870 per year

Mid-level special education teacher earnings begin at :

$ 27.87 per hour

$ 57,960 per year

Junior-level special education teacher earnings begin at :

$ 24.79 per hour

$ 51,570 per year

Starting level special education teacher earnings begin at :

$ 20.85 per hour

$ 43,360 per year

Approximate values based on highest and lowest earning segments.

Special education teacher salary by state

How do special education teacher salaries compare to similar careers.

Special education teachers earn about the same as related careers in Texas. On average, they make less than school psychologists but more than childcare program administrators.

Source: CareerExplorer (Aggregated)

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Special Education Teachers in Texas

How to Become a Teacher in this High Need Area

SpEd Teachers in Texas

• SpEd Teachers are in High Demand
• The Role of the SpEd Teacher
• SpEd Teacher Salaries
• Steps to Becoming a SpEd Teacher

Additional Resources

Special education teachers in texas are in high demand.

It’s no surprise that  49 states report a shortage of special education teachers , and 82% of special education teachers report that there are not enough professionals to meet the needs of students with disabilities. The Houston Chronicle reported a 21% growth for special education teachers at the preschool through elementary school levels and a 20% growth rate at the middle-school level. The projected growth in the employment of all special education teachers nationwide is 17% until 2020.

If you want to become a special education teacher in Texas, look no further than Texas Teachers. The Texas Teachers alternative certification program will get you fully certified to teach special education, either one-on-one with exceptional students, teaching in a classroom of developmentally delayed students, or teaching in a classroom with mostly average learners and being able to accommodate just a few learning disabled students.

Special Education (SpEd) Teacher Salaries

Since there is a growing need for special education qualifications in Texas, special education teachers enjoy more benefits than other teachers who are certified in another subject area. Special Education teachers may be offered higher salaries and often times are given a stipend by their employing school district as an incentive for retention.

Special Education teachers also receive many less tangible rewards, as their exceptional students’ progress can be greatly inspiring. Most positions will offer full benefits such as medical, dental and vision insurance, along with paid summer, winter, and spring vacations, and a retirement plan. You may also receive additional pay for working with students for their extracurricular activities.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ (BLS) , the salary for special education teachers is as high as $67,394. On top of that, many districts will pay special education teachers a $1,000-$3,000 stipend each year.

Steps to Becoming a SpEd Teacher This Year

The Texas Teachers program is approved by the state of Texas to certify teachers in special education in a number of ways. All you need is a bachelor’s degree in any major with a 2.5 GPA to get started. We will need a completed application and official transcripts to admit you into the program.

Step 1: Training After being admitted to our program, you will complete innovative, engaging online training, and teacher observations to get you ready for the classroom. The Texas Teachers of Tomorrow program provides extensive training in pedagogy, allowing special education teachers to gain all of the skills and knowledge necessary to become an effective teacher before ever stepping foot in the classroom. Throughout the training you will observe the classrooms of veteran special education teachers and complete projects to expand upon that field experience.

Step 2: Testing Special Education teachers who teach core content to a classroom of developmentally delayed students at the elementary or middle school levels will need to pass both the special education TExES exam and the Core Subjects Exam for their grade level (EC-6 or 4-8) . Texas Teachers helps you prepare for these exams with comprehensive test preparation modules and an online study community. Additional test preparation materials are also provided on our Study Resources page.

Special Education teachers who teach one or more students who are included in a traditional classroom (also known as ‘inclusion’) will need to pass only the special education TExES exam.

Teachers of any subject at any grade level can add the special education certification by passing the special education TExES exam. Passing this exam allows teachers to accommodate just a few students with disabilities in their classrooms. The demand for this application of special education qualifications has steadily grown, as it allows hiring districts more flexibility when assigning students to a professional educator’s classroom.

Step 3: Teaching During your first year of teaching, also known as the Internship Year, you will receive full pay and benefits. The Internship Year provides the opportunity to work directly with children and lead your own classroom while also having help from your assigned Field Supervisor, a veteran educator with more than 15 years of experience in education.

Upon successful completion of your internship year and program requirements, you will become a fully certified teacher. Special Education teachers are in very high demand in Texas. Make a difference in the lives of students in your community by becoming a certified teacher today.

The Role of the Special Education Teacher

An early childhood special education teacher is responsible for helping infants and toddlers under the age of 5 build learning skills to prepare them for school. Parents, therapists, social workers, and medical professionals all work together to determine the best possible environment and strategies for each child.

Elementary and secondary special education teachers build lesson plans based on their assessment of each of their students’ needs. Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) are central to this process. Each student has their own specific set of needs and circumstances, and the IEP serves as a road map to track the student’s progress, informing the strategy behind how supervising teacher assistants, group activity, one-on-one instruction, and parents come together to assist the student in accomplishing their goals toward progress in the classroom.

The special education teacher works in conjunction with general education teachers as well as counselors and administrators to further the goals set forth in a student’s IEP. As each student’s educational steward, the special education teacher updates the IEP throughout the year to reflect their progress and goals. The IEPs you create for students will collectively determine how you structure your classroom. The Texas Teachers training program will teach you how to create effective individualized education plans based on state standards. Once the IEPs have been established, the special education teacher works with students and parents to carry them out.

Responsibilities of the Special Education Teacher:

• Assisting students as they acquire basic life skills
• Behavioral and emotional development
• Designing and implementing modified curricula to fit student abilities
• Assessing students’ performance via modified testing procedures such as oral examinations, larger print materials, and extended test times
• Collaborating with parents, counselors, physical therapists, medical professionals, administrators, and other teachers

Characteristics of a good Special Education teacher:

• Organized and good at multitasking
• Able to provide and cultivate structure for students’ routines
• Optimistic and positive
• Displays empathy and is accepting of their students
• Calm and even-tempered, even in emergency situations
• Creative problem solver
• Seeks to truly understand and encourage students
• Intuitive and able to anticipate students’ needs
• Patient and kind
• Team player

Are you ready to learn more about becoming a special education teacher in Texas? Apply for free and one of our expert program advisors will contact you to help you develop a personalized path to certification!

SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER JOBS:

Typically, special education teachers work with students from pre school to high school. Some special education teachers may need to travel or work in residential facilities, hospitals, and the students’ homes. Working in a child’s home is typically more common from special education teachers that work with infants and toddlers. Many more people are starting to go into the special education teacher profession, with a projected 8% of grown from 2022-2030 and about 38,600 job openings each year. 

What is a special education teacher?

A special education teacher is someone who is a trained and certified professional, working with children and youths who have a range of disabilities. The work of a special education teacher is focused on helping students achieve their highest potential and work to excel beyond limitations. What special education teachers are able to teach their students may range depending on the disabilities of the child. Those with severe cognitive, emotional, or physical disabilities may be taught life skills and basic literacy, while those with mild or moderate disabilities may be taught the general education curriculum with modifications. Either way, being a special education teacher is an admirable and necessary occupation.

How to become a special education teacher?

Ever wonder what qualifications you need to become a special education teacher ? Look at the checklist below to see what the requirements are for this career path and how you can complete it through the Texas Teachers program: 

• Obtain a bachelor’s degree in any field or major and receive a 2.5 GPA
• Complete and submit an application and official transcriptios to be admitted into the Texas Teachers program
• Complete all of your online training and modules
• Pass the special education TExES exam and the Core Subjects Exam for your grade level, either EC-6 or 4-8
• Complete an internship and all program requirements
• Now you are a special education teacher !

How much does a special education teacher make?

On average in the United States, a special education teacher makes around $61,500 per year. However, in Texas, special education teachers make an average of $58,000 per year. In terms of hourly pay, dollar amount can rage from $22 to $35 and depends on a variety of factors, like education, certifications, additional skillsets, and amount of time spent in the profession.  Below is a list of best states for special education teachers with average salary and number of jobs: 

• Maryland – the average salary is $68,000, and the number of jobs is 1,060.
• Connecticut – the average salary is $56,000, and the number of jobs is 580.
• District of Columbia – the average salary is $65,000, and the number of jobs is 235.
• New Jersey – the average salary is $55,500, and the number of jobs is 1,400.
• New York – the average salary is $60,000, and the number of jobs is 1,700.

What does a special education teacher do?

A typical day for a special education teacher can vary based on the children that are being taught, and where the teacher is actually teaching. Typically, the teacher will have to initially give students an assessment to gauge where they are at academically. From there, the special education teacher will create lesson plans or Individual Education Plans (IEPs). This helps students have both goals and teachers have action plans for completing the goals. Special education teachers may also have to create plans for students that are visually impaired and hearing impaired. Again, these responsibilities are not all of the responsibilities for a special education teacher, and each special education teacher will have their own experiences. 

The National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET) provides additional support specifically for prospective special education teachers. Their website provides valuable resources such as their Classroom Management Series publication, video lectures, and much more.

Texas Teachers Certification Areas

Texas teachers currently offers 50+ certification areas:.

• Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources 6–12 (272)
• American Sign Language (ASL) (184)
• Art EC–12 (178)
• Bilingual Education Supplemental (164)
• Bilingual Target Language Proficiency Test (BTLPT) Spanish (190)
• Business and Finance 6–12 (276)
• Chemistry 7–12 (240)
• Computer Science 8–12 (241)
• Core Subjects EC-6 (291)
• Core Subjects 4–8 (211)
• Dance 6–12 (279)
• English as a Second Language Supplemental (154)
• English Language Arts and Reading 4–8 (117)
• English Language Arts and Reading 7–12 (231)
• English Language Arts and Reading/Social Studies 4–8 (113)
• Family and Consumer Sciences EC-12 (200)
• Health EC–12 (157)
• Health Science 6–12 (273)
• History 7–12 (233)
• Journalism 7–12 (256)
• Languages Other Than English (LOTE) Arabic EC–12 (600 & 605)
• Languages Other Than English (LOTE) French EC–12 (610)
• Languages Other Than English (LOTE) German EC–12 (611)
• Languages Other Than English (LOTE) Latin EC–12 (612)
• Languages Other Than English (LOTE) Japanese EC–12 (602 & 607)
• Languages Other Than English (LOTE) Mandarin Chinese EC–12 (601 & 606)
• Languages Other Than English (LOTE) Russian EC–12 (603 & 608)
• Languages Other Than English (LOTE) Spanish EC–12 (613)
• Languages Other Than English (LOTE) Vietnamese EC–12 (604 & 609)
• Life Science 7–12 (238)
• Marketing 6–12 (275)
• Mathematics 4–8 (115)
• Mathematics 7–12 (235)
• Mathematics/Physical Science/Engineering 6–12 (274)
• Mathematics/Science 4–8 (114)
• Music EC–12 (177)
• Physical Education EC–12 (158)
• Physical Science 6–12 (237)
• Physics/Mathematics 7–12 (243)
• Science 4–8 (116)
• Science 7–12 (236)
• Social Studies 4–8 (118)
• Social Studies 7–12 (232)
• Special Education EC–12 (161)
• Speech 7–12 (129)
• Technology Applications EC–12 (242)
• Technology Education 6–12 (171)
• Texas Assessment of Sign Communication–American Sign Language™ (TASC–ASL™) (073)
• Theatre EC–12 (180)
• Trade and Industrial (T&I)

How Much Do Special Education Teachers Make in Texas?

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Special education teachers focus on students with disabilities ranging from mild learning problems to severe physical disabilities. Special education teachers adapt teaching techniques and lesson plans to meet students' needs, teach subjects and act as liaisons with other faculty members.

Schools like the University of Texas at Austin offer undergraduate and graduate special education teacher training programs that meet state certification requirements. Special education teacher salary by state also varies by district, experience and student grade level, but according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, special education teachers in Texas are neither the worst nor the best paid in the nation.

Special Education Teachers: Preschool

Texas preschool special education teachers had average annual salaries of ​ $49,670 ​, according to a May 2021 report from the BLS. The median annual salary for preschool special education teachers in Texas was a little less at ​ $49,410 ​. The top 10 percent earned ​ $76,010 ​ or more, but at the opposite end of the pay scale, 10 percent earned no more than ​ $24,160 ​.

Nationwide, preschool special education teachers earned an average salary of ​ $71,970 per year ​, which translates to a preschool special education teacher salary per hour of ​ $34.60 ​. The top-earning 10 percent nationally earned at least ​ $123,860 ​ per year, while the lowest-paid 10 percent earned ​ $37,540. ​

Special Education Teachers: Kindergarten and Elementary

Special education teachers in Texas who taught kindergarten through the elementary grades had a median salary of ​ $61,220 ​ annually in 2021, according to the BLS . The best-paid 10 percent earned ​ $76,010 ​ or more, and the lowest-paid 10 percent earned ​ $47,930 ​ or less.

The national statistics showed a median salary of ​ $61,640 ​, with the top 10 percent earning at least ​ $98,970 ​ and the lowest-paid 10 percent earning no more than ​ $46,400 ​.

Special Education Teachers: Middle School

At the middle-school level, as of May 2021, special education teachers in Texas had a median salary of ​ $61,260 ​, according to the BLS. The lowest-paid 10 percent earned ​ $48,260 ​ or less, and the top-paid 10 percent earned ​ $75,330 ​ or more.

National data showed a median annual salary of ​ $61,820 ​ for special education teachers at middle schools. Nationally, the top 10 percent earned ​ $100,310 ​, while the worst-paid 10 percent earned ​ $46,840 ​.

Special Education Teachers: High School

Nationally, high school special education teachers had median earnings of ​ $62,120 ​, according to the May 2021 data released by the BLS . Ten percent earned less than ​ $47,230 ​, but 10 percent earned ​ $100,310 ​ or more.

In Texas, the median salary was ​ $61,680 ​ per year, with the best-paid 10 percent earning ​ $76,880 ​ or more and the bottom 10 percent earning no more than ​ $48,210 ​. Houston, Texas ranked among the cities that employed the most special education secondary teachers in the country. Special education teacher salary in Houston, Texas averaged ​ $64,220 ​ at city high schools in 2021.

Job Outlook

According to the projections made by the BLS , employment of all special education teachers is predicted to increase by 8 percent nationwide until 2030. The BLS projected the greatest growth, 12 percent, for special education teachers at the preschool level. Job demand will be on pace with the anticipated 8 percent average growth of all occupations in the U.S.

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Special Education Teachers, Preschool
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Special Education Teachers -- Job Outlook
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Special Education Teachers, Middle School
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Special Education Teachers, Secondary School
• UTA: Become a Special Education Teacher

Jeffrey Joyner has had numerous articles published on the Internet covering a wide range of topics. He studied electrical engineering after a tour of duty in the military, then became a freelance computer programmer for several years before settling on a career as a writer.

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From salaries to stipends, from healthcare to childcare, we are making an investment in our educators and staff. We're ensuring that when you call AISD your home, you're well taken care of in and out of the classroom.

Compensation and Salary

We're exploring multiple options for a comprehensive compensation package for the 2024-25 school year that benefits our employees. 

AISD values its employees and works hard to make sure they are appropriately compensated. We are setting the standard in Central Texas with our comprehensive compensation and benefits package. 

2023-2024 Compensation Manual

Manual de compensacion 2023-2024, a comprehensive compensation package that supports you, professional pathways for teachers and leadership pathways (ppft).

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The district offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees and their families so that they are empowered to live healthy, balanced and fulfilling lives. We offer wellbeing incentives, employee assistance programs, and discounts to local health and wellness vendors in the area.  Learn more on our Benefits & Leave page.

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• Discounted AISD Pre-K tuition for AISD employees
• Mentorships and support for all first and second-year teachers
• Cohorts for staff to find community, collaboration and support with their peers
• Employee discounts for housing, retail, and food with local vendors
• Leadership development opportunities for professional growth
• Federal Teacher Loan Forgiveness Program

2023-2024 Stipends

2023-24 stipends.

Bilingual Stipend $7,000 a year for Bilingual classroom teachers  

Special Education Stipend $7,000 a year for Special Education classroom teachers  

Advanced Degree Teacher Stipend $1,000 for teachers who hold a master's degree or higher.   

National Board Certified Teacher Stipend Stipends for  National Board Certified  classroom teachers, counselors, and librarians

See the Compensation Manual  for current school year stipends and additional information on stipend eligibility.

Special Education Teacher Salary

Rising numbers of autism, ADHD other diagnoses are helping drive the demand for special education services throughout the nation, putting an unprecedented strain on our nation’s schools to attract and retain special ed teachers. And while this is creating some real challenges for schools to overcome, for aspiring and practicing special education teachers, it simply means better opportunities to lock in a great position with the district of their choosing.

While teachers in just about every subject and grade level are dealing with the challenges of having to pick and move to a new area where they’re lucky enough to land a position, special educators often find themselves with multiple offers to consider.

Federal, State, and Local Incentives for Special Education Teachers

Salary trends for special education teachers according to location and licensure level, the rising number of students with ieps is driving demand for special education teachers, state-by-state guide to special education teacher salaries.

Special education teachers are bound to the same salary schedules as their colleagues in other subjects and specialty areas, largely due to guidelines set forth by state teacher unions.

So, while special education shortages persist throughout the nation, school districts cannot deviate from the set salary schedules as a way to recruit new special education talent. However, the federal government, state education agencies, and local school districts can and often do provide other financial incentives in an effort to attract and retain them.

Teachers working in state teacher shortage areas recognized by the U.S. Department are eligible to receive special benefits from the federal government. For example, the TEACH (Teacher Education Assistants for College and Higher Education) Grant Program provides grants of up to $4,000 per year for students who agree to serve as a teacher in a high-need field that serves students from low-income families. Special education consistently manages to land toward the top of the list of high-need fields:

• Special education
• Bilingual education/English language acquisition
• Foreign language
• Mathematics
• Reading specialist

Through the Teacher Forgiveness Program , special education teachers recognized as highly qualified and teaching at either the elementary or secondary level can receive up to $17,500 in loan repayment for their Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Federal Stafford loans if they teach full-time for five consecutive school years in a low-income school or educational service agency.

Many state education agencies also offer statewide financial incentives. For example, the Minnesota Teacher Shortage Loan Repayment Program provides loan repayment assistance of up to $1,000 annually ($5,000 total) for special education teachers serving in districts located in defined teacher shortage areas.

At the local level, it’s common for school districts to offer specific financial incentives to attract teachers and encourage them to take jobs in teacher shortage areas. For example, the Austin Independent School District offers two financial incentives for special education teachers: (1) a $2,000/year special education stipend for special education classroom teachers and eligible support staff; and (2) a $1,500 bonus for newly hired special education classroom teachers.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), special education teachers earned an average, annual salary of $61,030, as of May 2019. The top 10%—likely those with extensive experience and/or a graduate degree—earned an average of $98,530 that year.

As of May 2019, there were 443,700 special education teachers in the U.S. By 2029, the number of working in  preschools around the country will grow by 14,300.

As expected, average salaries for special education teachers don’t vary a whole lot according to grade level:

• Preschool special education teachers: $60,000
• Kindergarten/elementary special education teachers: $60,460
• Middle school special education teachers: $61,440
• High school special education teachers: $61,710

The average salary for special education teachers is also similar to that of general education teachers at the elementary ($59,670), middle ($59,660), and high school levels ($61,660).

The top-paying states for special education teachers, according to grade level, include:

• New York: $89,930
• Oregon: $77,320
• Rhode Island: $72,750
• Connecticut: $70,400
• Montana: $68,960

Kindergarten and Elementary School

• California: $80,370
• Washington D.C.: $78,830
• New York: $77,840
• Oregon: $76,880
• Connecticut: $76,780

Middle School

• New York: $87,440
• Connecticut: $80,370
• Washington D.C.: $80,080
• Maryland: $78,190
• Alaska: $77,740

High School

• New York: $83,890
• California: $83,000
• Maryland: $80,800
• Oregon: $79,460
• Washington D.C.: $79,010

Increasing numbers of students in America now qualify for Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) through the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA)—that’s an increase of about half a million students since 2007-08. During the 2018-19 school year, 7.1 million students, or about 14 percent of the entire public school population, received services through IDEA. And in some parts of the country, the percentage of special education students is much higher. For example, in New York, more than 19 percent of all students receive special education services under IDEA.

And schools throughout the U.S. simply can’t keep up with demand.

While the lack of special education teachers is a serious and prevalent problem, for those looking to enter or advance in the field, it equates to exceptional professional opportunities and, in many cases, higher salaries, courtesy of federal, state, and local financial incentives designed to get them in the door and keep them there.

As of the 2020-21 school year, 45 states and Washington D.C. reported shortages of special education teachers, with most states reporting shortages in all or most all disability categories. Some states like Alabama and Rhode Island, are just dealing with a shortfall of qualified teachers in early childhood special education classrooms, while states like Washington and Oklahoma are experiencing shortages at all levels and in all exceptionalities.

The 45 states contending with these shortages are:

• Connecticut
• District of Columbia
• Massachusetts
• Mississippi
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• West Virginia

You can learn more about your state’s special education needs by using the U.S. Department of Education’s searchable database of teacher shortage areas .

The following BLS stats highlight what special educator teachers (at the kindergarten/elementary school level) were earning at the 50 th – 90 th percentile as of May 2019:

• Alabama: $52,550 – $63,510
• Alaska: $72,860 – $100,670
• Arizona: $45,720 – $62,880
• Arkansas: $49,050 – $63,580
• California: $77,470 – $118,210
• Colorado: $52,610 – $79,180
• Connecticut: $77,990 – $102,690
• Delaware: $57,990 – $80,570
• District of Columbia: $76,660 – $118,620
• Florida: $64,040 – $86,430
• Georgia: $59,920 – $85,680
• Hawaii: $57,580 – $76,900
• Idaho: $46,880 – $75,490
• Illinois: $61,590 – $98,230
• Indiana: $49,550 – $79,490
• Iowa: $55,320 – $81,750
• Kansas: $52,760 – $73,190
• Kentucky: $52,780 – $65,290
• Louisiana: $49,350 – $61,700
• Maine: $51,210 – $73,660
• Maryland: $69,620 – $108,470
• Massachusetts: $72,550 – $110,890
• Michigan: $63,330 – $98,220
• Minnesota: $58,730 – $85,140
• Mississippi: $46,770 – $64,810
• Missouri: $54,260 – $96,630
• Montana: $49,270 – $73,540
• Nebraska: $58,490 – $81,140
• Nevada: $52,970 – $74,570
• New Hampshire: $59,350 – $80,210
• New Jersey: $67,060 – $99,170
• New Mexico: $51,390 – $77,900
• New York: $78,810 – $120,610
• North Carolina: $49,390 – $66,290
• North Dakota: $57,820 – $85,040
• Ohio: $56,670 – $82,100
• Oklahoma: $47,030 – $74,330
• Oregon: $76,330 – $118,160
• Pennsylvania: $64,210 – $94,340
• Rhode Island: $77,930 – $98,890
• South Carolina: $58,470 – $87,670
• South Dakota: $44,300 – $59,480
• Tennessee $52,630 – $72,120
• Texas: $57,390 – $72,710
• Utah: $43,620 – $81,870
• Vermont: $60,690 – $86,110
• Virginia: $64,040 – $102,140
• Washington: $68,150 – $93,220
• West Virginia: $42,820 – $58,480
• Wisconsin: $54,700 – $81,070
• Wyoming: $60,470 – $77,870

Salary and employment data compiled by the  United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics in May of 2019. Figures represent accumulated data for all employment sectors in which preschool special education teachers work. BLS salary data represents average and median earnings for the occupations listed and includes workers at all levels of education and experience. This data does not represent starting salaries. 

Salary and employment data compiled by the  United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics in May of 2019. Figures represent accumulated data for all employment sectors in which kindergarten and elementary special education teachers work. BLS salary data represents average and median earnings for the occupations listed and includes workers at all levels of education and experience. This data does not represent starting salaries. 

All salary and employment data accessed October 2020.

Become a Special Education Teacher

How to Become a Special Education Teacher

Jump to section, what are the requirements for special education teachers, who will my students be, what does a special education teacher do, special education teacher jobs & job description, where can certified special education teachers teach, special education teacher organizations & associations, what is the salary of a special education teacher.

Great teachers empathize with children, respect them, and believe that each one has something special that can be built on. Ann Lieberman

A career as a special education teacher will involve instructing students with emotional, physical and learning disabilities. Special education teachers may work with individuals of all ages from infants to adults. Their job will consist of helping their students develop problem solving, motor and social skills needed to complete their education and live independent lives. They may work with their students on personal and life skills in addition to academic curriculum and advancement.

Qualities of a Special Education Teacher

Special education teacher requirements include fantastic communication skills since they will be working with students, parents, and educators. They must be able to work in a one-on-one setting with students as well as in a group setting. Being able to meet the individual needs of their students is very important. Good computer skills and organization skills are important due to needing to keep detailed records of each student's progress. Being familiar with assistive technology devices in a classroom is a plus. An encouraging personality as well as the ability to be creative and flexible are all great qualities for a special education teacher.

Job Growth for Special Education Teachers

The employment growth for special education teachers is 3% at the national level for the 10-year period ending in 2029, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This will vary according to which state you live in, however, and be driven by increased demand for special education services, and the need to replace teachers leaving their occupations.

All certified special education teachers in the United States must have at least a bachelor's degree and hold a state-issued license or certificate specific to teaching special education students. However, each state has their own specific licensing requirements.

Education Requirements for Special Education Teachers

Many universities and colleges offer special education degrees at the bachelor's, master's and doctoral levels.

Special education teacher degree classes will include gaining knowledge of disabilities like autism, downs syndrome, visual impairment and more. Students will also learn practical procedures for teaching science, math and reading skills to students who have special needs.

Specialized classes could examine topics like technology for differentiated instruction, low incidence disabilities and more. Special education teacher training will also include curriculum development courses and supervised classroom student teaching. Most special education teachers earn a degree in Special Education or Education .

Special Education Teacher Preparation Program

If your school does not offer a degree in special education, you can enroll in a special education teacher preparation program after receiving your degree. This type of program will lead you toward becoming a certified special education teacher. Licensure/certification can be attained through the completion of a teacher education program that is accredited by CAEP (Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation). Due to the high level of specialization among special education teachers, many states may require additional training before you can get a professional license.

Tests to Pass if you Want to Become a Special Education Teacher

Prospective special education teachers are also required to take and pass all special education content area assessments in order to obtain certification at the special education level. These standardized tests vary from state to state. Licensing and competency exams should be taken in the state where you wish to teach.

Find Information About Becoming a Teacher In Your State

Each state has different requirements for becoming a certified teacher. To find out specific requirements, click on your state.

• Connecticut
• Massachusetts
• Mississippi
• New Hampshire
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Washington, DC
• West Virginia

Special Education Teacher by Degree Level

The tables and charts below break down the education level obtained as averaged across the U.S.

Data taken from BLS Educational attainment for workers 25 years and older by detailed occupation, 2010-11 (http://www.bls.gov/emp/ep_table_111.htm)

Special education teachers will have students with learning, physical and emotional disabilities. Many special education students may have delayed motor and social skills and will need to be worked with in these areas on a daily basis. Special education students can range from pre-k to 12th grade, depending on your area of specialty.

Special education teachers will work with students who have a wide range of disabilities ranging from learning, physical, mental and emotional. They are responsible for adapting general education lessons to meet the needs of their students. Subjects taught include reading, writing and math as well as basic skills like literacy and communication techniques. Their students may have disabilities ranging from mild to moderate to severe.

Job Duty Requirements for Special Education Teachers

Special education teachers must be able to meet their students' needs to ensure that each individual student receives proper attention and the assistance needed to succeed in school and life. This may include providing one-on-one assistance in the setting of a general classroom, adapting materials, providing appropriate testing opportunities and more.

Special education teachers provide the families of their students the tools they need to grow as independent individuals in their communities. These teachers work with parents, other teachers and paraprofessionals to create individual education plans (IEP) for their students in order to help meet the individual needs of each child.

A complex and demanding career path, the role of the special education teacher is difficult to encapsulate briefly, given that every teacher's caseload of students looks very different from the next. While there are similarities between elementary to secondary, there are differences as well.

Becoming an Elementary Special Education Teacher

Often considered a generalist (though perhaps with special interest or training in one or two areas of need) elementary special education teachers work hard to ensure that students with special needs are able to achieve all their abilities dictate that they can. Elementary special education teachers:

• Work with students who have Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD), autism, Asperger's syndrome, those who are blind, low-vision, deaf or hard-of-hearing, who have Central Auditory Processing Delays (CAP-D), physical disabilities, cognitive impairments or developmental delays.
• Spearhead the development of an Individual Education Plan each year as a working document for teachers, support staff, administrators, guardians/parents, and other professionals to contribute to in order to ensure best outcomes for students
• Outline accommodation and/or modification and/or alternate programming to classroom tasks
• Meet with parents/guardians and internal and external stakeholders for an annual review of IEP particulars and program goals, known as Identification, Placement, and Review Committee (IPRC) meetings
• Mentor and advise professional support staff such as speech pathology, audiology, interpreting, psychological assessment, occupational therapy, social work and medical services
• Ensure that accommodations or modifications during instructional time are also in place during assessments
• Create a transition plan from year to year, and from elementary to high school with post-secondary planning being a relevant goal and timeline
• Set academic and developmental goals for students to strive for - ensure that metrics are in place so that every success is measurable
• Communicate proactively and professionally about student assessment and behavior with teaching and non-teaching staff, individual students, their families and associated professionals, bearing in mind the impact of confidentiality regarding vulnerable persons
• Support the school's culture and practices for inclusion through extracurricular and co-curricular activities and staff leadership

Becoming a High School Special Education Teacher

Often considered a specialist (though perhaps a generalist due to diversity of need or size of school population) high school special education teachers work hard to ensure that students with special needs are able to achieve all their abilities dictate that they can, and then some. High school special education teachers:

• Assess student learning needs in the classroom on a holistic basis, taking into account the students current and past achievements, current cultural and familial framework, and future goals
• Spearhead the continuation of an accurate and effective Individual Education Plan each year as an editable working document for teachers, support staff, administrators, guardians/parents, and other professionals to contribute to in order to ensure best outcomes for student growth
• Act as a daily point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, including the student themselves as their individual need dictates
• Act as a friendly face and advocate, helping students learn the valuable skill of self-advocacy as they approach the end of high school
• Function as a resource for school to work transitioning
• Advocate for and promote students for extensive co-operative education placements both in and outside of the school
• Outline accommodation and/or modification and/or alternate programming to classroom tasks; keep rigorous metrics
• Proactively meet with parents/guardians and internal and external stakeholders for an annual review of IEP particulars and program goals, known as Identification, Placement, and Review Committee (IPRC) meetings
• Suggest beneficial reductions in support for the student to foster self-reliance, reduction in vulnerability, and independence
• Understand theories of adolescent development and how special needs may alter these developmental arcs
• Advocate on behalf of the student's needs to classroom teachers and administration, either individually and on an ad-hoc basis or in a more formal setting
• In-service teaching staff, support staff and administration on student behavior and general best practices for interaction and engagement
• Create a transition plan from year to year, and from high school to post-secondary education or job training. Ensure timelines are accurate; work backward from end-goal.
• Set academic and developmental goals for students to strive for - ensure that metrics are in place so that every small success is measurable

Certified special education teachers have many employment avenues open to them, including consultation, policy development, advocacy and administration.

Special education teachers can work in elementary schools, charter schools and private schools.

Public Schools

Public schools are required to admit any student who lives within the district, regardless of ability, ethnicity or socioeconomic backgrounds. In public schools, special education teachers tend to work with a diverse group of children with varying needs. Prospective public special education teachers are often required to apply directly to the district prior to seeking employment at a specific school.

Private Schools

Since private schools charge tuition for a child to attend, special education services are generally not free. Many smaller private schools do not even offer special education services. With that said, families of students with special needs may be required to hire a private one-on-one aide to assist the child. These schools are generally governed by a private school board or organization and may have religious affiliations.

If a prospective special education teacher is interested in teaching at a private school, they should check with the school in which they wish to teach to find out specific criteria. Many private schools do not have the same requirements for special education teachers as their public school counterparts. In some cases, relevant experience or a bachelor's degree will suffice.

Charter Schools

Charter schools are independent schools that do not require tuition. They have more flexibility than public schools, but are expected to perform better and have a greater accountability. Charter schools are typically smaller and more selective. They may have additional requirements for their education teachers. However, some charter schools may not have dedicated special education services. To inquire, contact the charter school of your interest.

NASET - National Association of Special Education Teachers: NASET is a national membership organization dedicated to providing support and assistance to those preparing for or teaching in the field of special education.

CEC - Council for Exception Children: The Council for Exceptional Children is the largest international professional organization dedicated to improving the educational success of children and youth with disabilities and/or gifts and talents.

IASE - International Association of Special Education: The IASE works to improve the quality of life and service delivery for all individuals with special needs.

NAPSEC - National Association of Private Special Education Centers: NAPSEC is a nonprofit association that supports access to appropriate special education programs with more than 200 programs nationally and over 400 at the state level through the Council of Affiliated State Associations.

The median annual wage for special education teachers was $61,030 in 2019, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, with entry-level teachers earning less than $40,730, and the highest 10% of experienced teachers earning more than $98,530 per year.

In addition to the salary, educators get great health and retirement benefits. Given the degree of specialty training that a special education teacher receives, he or she has an average salary that is somewhat higher than their mainstream counterparts, although private school teachers do earn less than public school teachers. Like other teaching roles, salaries are based mostly on experience and education.

Visit our Teacher Salary-What to Expect? page to find out more.

(Salary data for special education teachers reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in May 2019. Figures represent state data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Information accessed March 2021.)

Special Education Teachers (Preschool)

Salary (2022) and job outlook (2012 to 2020) by state.

According to the published BLS data from 2022, the national average salary for Special Education Teachers (Preschool) is $69,620, with an estimated 22,970 being employed nationwide. Also, the job outlook growth projection from 2012 to 2020 is expected to increase by 16.2%.

Data taken from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics (http://www.bls.gov/oes/) for Special Education Teachers (Preschool) (SOC Code: 25-2051)

Salary (2022) By Largest Metropolitan Areas

Special education teachers (kindergarten and elementary school).

According to the published BLS data from 2022, the national average salary for Special Education Teachers (Kindergarten and Elementary School) is $68,580, with an estimated 195,010 being employed nationwide. Also, the job outlook growth projection from 2012 to 2020 is expected to increase by 6.2%.

Data taken from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics (http://www.bls.gov/oes/) for Special Education Teachers (Kindergarten and Elementary School) (SOC Code: 25-2052)

Master’s in Special Education Degree Guide: Salary & Requirements 2024

Making the decision to become a special education teacher is a commitment to helping students realize their fullest potential. For the many students who receive special education services, fulfilling that commitment requires expertise in the instructional strategies tailored to their unique needs, and that is what a master’s degree in special education provides. 

Special education teachers with master’s degrees are in increasingly high demand and can earn significantly higher salaries than their colleagues with bachelor’s degrees. They are also positioned to easily transition into positions outside of the school setting. Potential non-education roles include diagnosticians and testers, counselors, case managers, and policymakers.

What is a Master’s Degree in Special Education?

Special education refers to teaching students using methodologies that are tailored to their challenges, exceptional needs or learning disabilities. Special education professionals provide early intervention to infants and toddlers identified as having disabilities or developmental delays and also work with eligible school age. The most effective instructional strategies require training and expertise that most general education teachers are unequipped to provide.

A master’s degree in special education generally takes two years to complete and arms teachers with the expertise, skills, and training they need to help special needs students learn and thrive. It also expands their opportunities for advancement, careers outside of the classroom, and higher compensation.

Should I Get a Master’s in Special Education if I Have a Bachelor’s in Special Education?

Many high-quality undergraduate teaching programs allow special education majors to focus on students with special needs. Though having a bachelor’s degree in special education opens the door to teaching this specific demographic, a master’s degree offers higher-level education focused on research, skill development, and leadership.

What Can I Do with A Master’s in Special Education Degree?

After graduating with a master’s degree in special education, you will not only be eligible for higher compensation as a teacher but will also find yourself qualified to move outside of the classroom into other  meaningful, rewarding career paths . Special education teachers with master’s degrees provide invaluable guidance to countless agencies and organizations that are dedicated to meeting the needs of individuals with disabilities, including:

• School boards
• Government agencies
• Nonprofit organizations
• Private corporations

Having a master’s degree in special education can open the door to becoming a diagnostician or case manager, a consultant or program coordinator. Graduates also work in early childhood education, elementary education, and secondary education.

How Much Do Special Education Master’s Graduates Make?

According to the  National Council on Teacher Quality , earning a master’s degree provides first-year teachers with $2,760 more in than teachers who have only earned a bachelor’s degree. This pay differential grows with experience, topping out at an average of $7,358 more per year by the time a teacher reaches the maximum number of years of experience within their district’s pay scale.

Some school districts offer incentives that recognize a master’s degree as equivalent to several years of experience, while others offer compensation for higher education credits earned, whether they result in a degree or not. The larger the school district, the greater the difference tends to be. For example, the most experienced teachers with master’s degrees earn $36,716 more than bachelors-degreed teachers with the same level of experience in the Montgomery County Public School District in Maryland. 

Master’s in Special Education Degree Salaries and Career Outlook

A master’s in special education program provides graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to reach the children who require the most attention and help. That need goes far beyond the classroom, and so do the career opportunities. Here are a few of the positions that this degree makes possible, along with salary and job projections provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):

• Median Salary: $61,500 
• Career Outlook: +8% (2020-2030)

Provides education tailored to meet the unique demands of students with special needs in a wide range of school environments, at all age levels.

• Median Salary: $98,490 

Oversees students in elementary, middle and high schools, providing direction of school operations and activities, oversight of budgets and curriculums, guidance and organization of staff, and engagement with community.

• Median Salary: $66,970 
• Career Outlook: +10% (2020-2030)

Instructional coordinators are tasked with designing, implementing and improving a school’s curriculum and educational programs.

 Source: BLS 

Earning a Master’s in Special Education

Though every program is different, a master’s degree in special education generally addresses the most effective methods of teaching to the abilities of children with learning disabilities or cognitive or emotional delays. The programs are offered in-person, online, and as hybrids between the two.

How Long Does A Special Education Graduate Program Take?

Students who pursue a master’s degree in special education should expect to spend 1-2 years on coursework completing roughly 30-to-36 credit hours made up of both classwork and, in some cases, a capstone project, practicum, or thesis. Specific program lengths vary upon whether students choose a full time or part time program, whether they opt for an online degree or in-person setting, and their educational background prior to the master’s program.

If an applicant to a program has not previously taught and/or does not have an undergraduate degree in education or a  teaching certification , they may also be required to complete prerequisite classes. Alternatively, those who have already attained a certain level of experience and have teaching certifications may be able to accelerate their degree completion, particularly if they select an online program.

Courses in Special Education Programs

Though each master’s in special education program will have its own curriculum based upon the priorities of its administration and its particular concentration, students considering a master’s in special education degree can anticipate taking classes similar to those listed below:

• Introduction to the Exceptional Child
• Specific Learning Disabilities: Identification, Instruction and Assessment (LD)
• Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
• Emotional and Behavioral Disorder Identification, Management, and Assessment (EBD)
• Understanding and Teaching Students with Intellectual Disabilities (ID)
• Assessment/Program Planning and Evaluation for Children with Special Needs    
• Special Education Law          
• Reading Disorders: Assessment, Planning, and Instruction
• Research in Special Education
• Educating Young Children with Special Needs        
• Working with Gifted and Talented Students 
• Designing & Utilizing Assistive Learning Technologies

Skills Learned in a Special Education Program

Master’s in special education programs prepare graduates to help students with special needs achieve and succeed. This is learned through both coursework and research, and results in graduates attaining invaluable skills, including:

• Recognizing and addressing challenging behaviors in applied settings and situations
• Lesson delivery across the autism spectrum
• Behavior modification in special needs students
• Help children develop social, emotional and behavioral wellness skills
• Deliver multi-sensory reading education to students with language-based learning disabilities
• Working collaboratively and creatively with others to deliver quality education to special education students

Master of Special Education Licensure and Certification

There are several different types of credentials required to teach. Every state requires that educators have at least bachelor’s degree and hold a teaching license from their state, and some states now require that teachers pursue and attain a master’s degree within five years of starting their teaching career.

Any graduate of a master’s in special education program who has not previously been licensed will be well prepared to meet the student teaching standards their state requires. In addition to licensure, certifications are awarded following completion of both an educational curriculum and a certain level of hands-on teaching practice. These certifications may be for:

• Specific grade levels such as elementary or high school
• Secondary education
• Special education
• Specific subject areas

There is also a national certification board, the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards, that awards certifications to teachers that meet their standards. Certification is voluntary but ensure that an individual teacher has met the high and rigorous standards set by the organization. The agency offers a special  “Exceptional Needs Standard”  ideal for those who have earned a master’s degree in special education.

Choosing the Best Special Education Degree

Once you’ve made the decision to pursue a master’s degree in special education, your next step is to find your educational home: the program where you will focus your efforts and attention for the next two years. This decision is based on multiple factors, some of which will be subjective and others objective.

In addition to weighing each program’s concentration, curriculum, faculty, and reputation, you also need to think about whether you prefer to attend classes in person or online, what the costs of the program are, whether financial aid is possible, and potential specializations. There is no single best program — there is only the program that’s best for you.

10 Best Schools for a Special Education Degree

Those looking to become special education teachers likely want to earn the best education possible. The better the degree, the better teachers can connect with and instruct their students. According to Universities.com’s  methodology , these are the 10 best schools for a special education degree:

• Texas Christian University
• Boston College
• University of Georgia
• University of Florida
• University of Washington – Seattle Campus
• Towson University
• Saint Joseph’s University
• University of Maryland – College Park
• University of Hawaii at Manoa
• New York University

To find more great special education schools, check out  our complete ranking here .

If you’re looking for other schools that offer Master’s in Special Education programs, check out the Find Your Perfect “U” tool. You can search over 6,000 colleges and universities with 11 different filters to find the  perfect school for you !

Online Master of Special Education vs. On-Campus Degrees

Just a few years ago, the idea of earning a graduate degree online was unheard of. But today, accredited colleges and universities offer high-quality programs in both online and in-person formats, and some of the best programs in the country are exclusively available online.

Because online education has progressed to the point where academic quality meets that of in-person classes, potential students can now make their decision based on what is best for them as individuals. When choosing, you should consider the following factors:

• Online education offers more flexibility and the ability to continue your personal and career responsibilities.
• In-person education offers more hands-on opportunities and more face-to-face engagement with your cohort.
• Online education is frequently less expensive, especially because you can learn at home rather than having to pay to commute, park, eat on or near campus, and potentially have to live on or near campus.

Many master’s in special education programs require that their students who are not currently teaching fulfill a minimum number of hours of in-person teaching experience in a special needs setting. If you are not currently a teacher and you’re considering an online program, make sure you understand each program’s requirements for in-person study and experience.

Master of Science or Arts in Teaching (MST or MAT) vs Master of Education (M.Ed.)

When investigating the various special education master’s programs available, you will find that each curriculum has its own particular focus. In addition to differences in concentration/specialization, students must also pick  between a master of science or arts in teaching (MAT or MST) degree or a master of education (MEd) degree . Though the distinction may sound like a matter of semantics, each has its own focus and facilitates a different career outcome. 

While both programs take approximately two years to complete, they diverge significantly when it comes to the content of the material presented. Students who choose to pursue a master of science or arts in teaching often plan on becoming better, more effective teachers. They want to learn new methods to educate their students and better understand their students’ needs and how best they can learn. These degrees make graduates better teachers.

By contrast, graduate degree candidates who opt for a  master’s in education  learn more about leadership and how the educational system works to serve students. Their work focuses as much on issues of ethics and collaboration as on understanding the learning differences of students requiring special education. This knowledge certainly serves to make them better teachers should they chose to remain in the classroom, but also prepares them for careers outside of the classroom.

Accreditation

Whether you choose an online program or one that is taught in person in a classroom setting, it is essential that you choose a school that has received the standardized endorsement of educational quality known as accreditation. Accreditation is controlled by the U.S. Department of Education, and applicants to unaccredited schools are not eligible for federal student aid.

Financial aid eligibility is far from the only reason to seek a school that has received accreditation. Accredited graduate schools are recognized as having achieved a high level of quality as assed by external peer review.

Educational Preparation Programs, including those that teach graduate studies in special education, are not only subject to accreditation by  Council for Higher Education Association  approved regional accreditors as other graduate schools, but also to professional accreditation specific to their subject matter. Programs offering undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees in education are subject to certification by the  Council for the Accreditation of the Educator Preparation  (CAEP).

Applying to Master’s in Special Education Degree Programs

Whether you’ve already been teaching students or you’ve decided to go straight from undergraduate school to a graduate program, applying for admission to a master’s in special education program requires meticulous attention to the selection of the program that most closely matches your goals and needs, the collection of required application material, and the submission of all needed documents to meet each school’s deadlines.

Admission Requirements for Special Education Master’s Programs

Each of the accredited programs that offer master’s degrees in special education has its own specific admission requirements, but there are commonalities among all of them that candidates for admission can expect. These include:

• Completed application form with associated fees
• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher learning with a minimum GPA of 3.0
• Official transcripts of undergraduate work
• A record of teaching
• Satisfactory writing skills demonstrated through a personal essay
• Valid teaching certificate
• Current resume

How to Pay for A Graduate Special Education Degree

Attending graduate school and earning a master’s degree in special education is an investment in your future and the future of the students who will benefit from your enhanced knowledge. But the eventual outcome doesn’t mean that paying for it will be easy. As indicated earlier, you can anticipate that graduate school will cost thousands and thousands of dollars, so it’s important that you know the  resources available to help you pay . These include tuition reimbursement from your employer, scholarships and grants, and loans.

How Much Does a Master’s in Special Education Degree Cost?

The cost to attend a graduate program in special education varies greatly, with tuition costs ranging from under $10,000 to almost $70,000. Tuition is based on factors including:

• The program’s reputation
• The quality of the faculty
• Whether the curriculum is taught online or in-person
• Whether the student is pursuing the degree on a full-time basis or part-time basis
• Whether the degree is offered by a private college or public university
• Whether the student is from in-state or from out-of-state

When choosing a program to attend, students should weigh their priorities against the elements that add or subtract to costs. Keep in mind that by choosing an online program, students avoid the additional fees attributable to room and board.

Special Education Career Resources

If you are considering pursuing a degree in special education or would like more information on the support and resources available to those who have chosen a career in educating those with special needs, the following organizations offer a wealth of assistance.

• The National Association of Special Education Teachers
• The Council for Exceptional Children
• The Association for Persons with Severe Handicaps
• National Organization on Disability
• National Center for Learning Disabilities
• The Office of Special Education Programs
• Special Education News

Special Education Degree FAQs

• With a master’s degree in special education, you will be qualified to teach special education students as well as to be a leader in the creation, implementation and management of their education.
• Earning your master’s degree in special education will not only add to your earning potential, it will also provide you with advanced leadership skills and improve your opportunities for advancement.
• The average income for a teacher with a master’s in special education is over $61,500, and other positions for which you will be qualified pay even higher salaries.
• It takes approximately two years to complete a master’s in special education program.

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Exploring special education teacher certification: Requirements and exam preparation

The teacher shortage is real and students with disabilities, including those in less wealthy and rural districts, are often the most impacted.

Take the case of Nico Mossa, a seventh-grader with disabilities in Wake County, N.C.

Nico is a fun-loving kid with autism and a seizure disorder who requires necessary accommodations. 1 However, when school started in July 2023, his class didn’t have a qualified special education teacher for five months.

While the district launched a search to fill the position, his mom worried that mandated services, which were outlined in his individualized education plan (IEP), were not being implemented. If Nico had a seizure in class, there was no guarantee the instructional aide or substitute assigned to his class would know where to find his medication or how to administer it.

Additionally, the certified special ed teacher next door had to juggle lesson planning responsibilities, their class, and Nico’s class—which resulted in a fragmented learning experience for students. 1

In this guide, we cover the career outlook for special education teachers. You will also learn about the steps to obtain special education certification, including exams and state requirements.

Career Opportunities

The career outlook for special education teachers is exceptionally promising, as indicated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics which projects around 33,500 new job openings between the years 2022 and 2023. 2

However, experts emphasize that this estimate may be conservative, given the demand; the United States currently serves over seven million students requiring special services or accommodations, highlighting a significant need for skilled special education professionals. 3,4

Although some challenges exist, including financial support gaps in certain states, the overall trend is toward increased awareness and early identification of disabilities, leading to a foreseeable surge in the demand for qualified special education teachers. 4

This growing recognition of the importance of special education services is paving the way for exciting opportunities in this rewarding field.

Unlocking the path: Essential steps for special education certification

Embarking on a career in special education is a profound commitment to empowering lives and shaping futures.

The journey to becoming a certified special education teacher requires dedication, compassion, and hands-on training.

Individuals who join the profession often teach the same cohort of students for multiple years and find they develop positive relationships with their students, families, caregivers, and community.

The importance of special education teachers like Brian Skinner

By the time students land on special education teacher Brian Skinner’s caseload, they have often convinced themselves they cannot excel at subjects like reading and math and decide to give up.

As 2023 Kansas Teacher of the Year, Skinner is driven to instill a belief that his students can succeed, and they do. 5

If you pursue a path toward special education certification, you, too, can become a champion of educational equity for students with special needs. Through advocacy, specialized instruction, and interventions, you will be able to create inclusive learning environments where your students will thrive. 6

Your role could include various settings, from resource rooms to mainstream classrooms where special education and regular students learn together. Crafting Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) under federal laws like the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), you'll ensure each student receives a free, appropriate education tailored to their needs. For instance, a student with ADHD might get extended time on learning activities or a modified exam. 1

Types of special education certifications

Because your students’ needs will vary greatly, you’ll want to consider gaining additional expertise in the areas you want to impact most.

Many online master’s degree programs offer specializations in areas, such as autism spectrum disorders or transition services for graduating students with disabilities.

Another option is to choose a specialization after teaching in a special education classroom for a few years and complete a certification program offered through organizations like the National Association of Special Education Teachers.

Other certifications include:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder : Acquire strategies in behavior management and social skills development tailored for individuals across the autism spectrum 7,8
• High Incidence Disabilities: Support students with learning disabilities and ADHD
• Low Incidence Disabilities: Specialize in supporting students with less common disabilities such as traumatic brain injuries 7,8
• Inclusion in Special Education : Learn how to integrate students with disabilities into general education settings effectively 7,8
• Secondary Education Transitions : Prepare students with disabilities for life after high school through vocational training and independent living skills 7,8

Earning these qualifications can set you apart from other candidates and enhance opportunities for career advancement.

Prerequisites for certification

Fulfilling the prerequisites for special education certification mandates a robust educational foundation:

• Educational Background: Complete a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with an approved teacher preparation program. You may need to include official transcripts with your job applications 9
• Cumulative GPA: A GPA of 3.0 or higher demonstrates academic rigor and commitment 9
• Professional Resume or CV: Showcase your qualifications, achievements, and any education-related work experiences. Then, apply to special education teaching positions for which you are qualified 9
• Pass Required Exams: Most states require teachers to take and pass a standardized exam before earning their initial special educator teaching license 9

Field experience and student teaching

Gaining practical experience is one of the best ways to prepare for a career in special education and complement what you learn in a degree program. In fact, most states require you to complete student teaching before you become a certified special education teacher.

Under the supervision of a seasoned educator, you get the chance to teach students in special education programs, get feedback on your teaching strategies, and gain insights into how various technologies are used to support learners.

If you want to expand your knowledge of diverse learning needs and strategies, consider an assistant teaching role in a special education classroom. 7 This can help bridge gaps between classroom theory and actual practice.

Finally, volunteering with programs that serve individuals with disabilities also provides valuable hands-on training. 7

Through these experiences, you will build essential skills, confidence, and empathy, all of which are crucial for success in the field of special education.

Background checks and clearance

School districts seek to hire the most qualified special education teachers, with a demonstrated commitment to child safety and ethical conduct. Background checks enable employers to assess whether job candidates are highly qualified and eligible to work with children.

According to Checkr, every U.S. state has laws mandating criminal background checks for K-12 teachers, while 38 states extend this requirement to other school employees who directly interact with children but without supervision. 10

To gain additional information about job candidates, schools may conduct screenings, such as: 10

• Criminal background check
• Education verification
• Verification of previous employment
• Professional license checks
• Driving record checks

Some states require teachers to undergo background checks every few years to ensure no disqualifying convictions have occurred since their initial pre-employment screening and that any professional licenses remain active. 9 Employers must follow local, state, and federal regulations when conducting these background checks.

Certification exams

Each state has its own guidelines concerning these exams. You can check with your state Board of Education to find the licensing requirements for your state. Many states use the Praxis II exams, which test your knowledge in specific areas.

The special education Praxis II exam tests core knowledge and applications. You have two hours to complete 120 questions that cover the following content categories: 11

• Development and Characteristics of Learners
• Planning and the Learning Environment
• Instruction
• Foundations and Professional Responsibilities

State-specific requirements

Prospective special education teachers must research the specific certification requirements in their state or the state where they plan to teach. They should be sure to research what exams are mandatory, the passing scores needed, and any additional coursework or practical experience requirements.

Besides the Praxis exam, you may have to take tests covering topics related to hearing impairment, American Sign Language, mild to moderate disabilities, or early childhood.

Other state assessments include:

• Content Exams: If you want to work in a high school, you may be required to take exams covering content areas such as English, social studies, or math
• edTPA : The Education Teacher Performance Assessment evaluates a teacher candidate's readiness for the classroom, including planning, instruction, and assessment practices. As of Fall 2017, 18 states have either adopted statewide policies requiring a performance assessment for aspiring teachers or are actively considering such a step 12

After fulfilling certification requirements, you'll be on your way to a fulfilling career as a special education teacher, where you can impact students' lives and help shape the future of education.

Take the first steps toward special education certification

If you’re passionate about inclusive education, you could help alleviate the teacher shortage and ensure that students like Nico Massa receive the high-quality instruction and support services mandated by federal law.

The University of Kansas School of Education and Human Sciences offers top-ranked special education master’s and certificate programs that can help you become the qualified education specialist that each of your students needs. 13

With a committed faculty and progressive curriculum that keeps up with the changing demands of the modern and inclusive classroom, KU’s online master’s is an unmated opportunity that offers tremendous career benefits for those in the field.

Schedule a call with a KU admissions outreach advisor today to learn how joining a KU special education online master’s-level program can help you excel and make a true difference.

• Retrieved on April 18, from www.northcarolinahealthnews.org/2023/01/26/schools-struggle-to-retain-special-ed-teachers-advocates-say-invest-more-in-them/
• Retrieved on April 18, from bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/special-education-teachers.htm
• Retrieved on April 18, from motherjones.com/politics/2023/12/how-americas-broken-promise-to-millions-of-students-became-the-status-quo/
• Retrieved on April 18, from pbs.org/newshour/show/whats-driving-a-special-education-teacher-shortage-and-how-schools-are-responding
• Retrieved on April 18, from iheart.com/podcast/269-how-we-teach-this-141528755/episode/s8e2-demystifying-special-education-with-2023-141528765/
• Retrieved on April 18, from parentcenterhub.org/iep-speceducator/
• Retrieved on April 18, from tealhq.com/certifications/special-education-teacher
• Retrieved on April 18, from naset.org/career-center/inclusive-board-certified-inclusive-education-specialist-bcies-program
• Retrieved on April 18, from masters-in-special-education.com/how-to-become-a-special-education-teacher/
• Retrieved on April 18, from checkr.com/resources/articles/teacher-background-checks
• Retrieved on April 18, from ets.org/content/dam/ets-org/pdfs/praxis/5354.pdf
• Retrieved on April 18, from aacte.org/faq/edtpa/
• Retrieved on April 18, 2024, from usnews.com/education/online-education/education/online-special-education-rankings

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Teacher Pay by State 2024

Many teachers are underpaid in the U.S. While the national average K-12 teacher salary is $66,397, this varies significantly by state. Unfortunately, many teachers are underpaid for taking on one of the most important tasks for a new generation: educating our youth.

Some of the best states for teachers are Washington , Utah , New Jersey , Delaware , and Pennsylvania . Of these states, Washington, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania are among the ten highest-paying states for teachers.

Like any other profession, the average salaries of teachers vary from state to state. This isn't just a small difference either. Average teacher salaries in the U.S. range from $47,162 in Mississippi to $92,222 in New York . Additionally, these salaries can be as much as 28% lower than the average salary of a full-time, year-round employee.

The highest pay in the nation for new teachers is in New York , where the average teacher salary is $92,222. New York's average teacher salary is about 11.5% higher than the average earnings of a full-time, year-round employee. Massachusetts and California follow, with $88,903 and $87,275 respectively.

Mississippi has the lowest average teacher salary of $47,162, followed by South Dakota with $49,761. These are the only states with average teacher salaries under $50,000 a year. Other states with lower average teacher salaries are West Virginia , Florida , Louisiana , Missouri , and Arkansas .

It's crucial to note that these are overall average teacher salaries. Starting teacher salaries are much lower and are often far below the livable wage in many states. The District of Columbia and New Jersey are the only states with starting teacher salaries over $50,000, with $55,209 and $51,443. Unfortunately, the livable wage is $68,000 in D.C. and $56,000 in New Jersey. Montana has the lowest starting salary at $31,418, which is still below its livable wage of $47,000. Thirty-four U.S. states have starting teacher salaries below $40,000 a year.

Below is a table of each state's average teacher salary and its comparison to the average full-time, year-round worker's salary and past salaries, and the average starting teacher salaries.

• As of 2023, the US national average teacher pay was $69,480 and the median was $62,360.

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• Teacher Salary by State - Study.com
• Which States Have the Highest and Lowest Teacher Salaries? - Education Week

How did public education fare in the Texas Legislature? Which bills passed — and failed

The Texas Legislature ended its regular 88th legislative session with public schools slated to get about $1.4 billion in funding, but other proposals to boost teacher pay and per pupil spending remain hanging on the fate of a special session.

School board members from across the state and representatives from teacher and state advocacy groups gathered at the Capitol on May 29, the regular session's last day, to express a general frustration with lawmakers' priorities.

“The improper linkage between private school vouchers and public school funding cost our schools billions of dollars,” said Christy Rome, executive director of the Texas School Coalition.

School choice, also known as vouchers, largely dominated education-related discussions during the session. The controversial program would give parents public money to help pay for private school tuition or other related costs.

More: Texas school choice bill dies overnight; lawmakers fated to have special session

Many local school leaders said they were left frustrated that lawmakers didn’t do more during the regular session to directly address public school funding.

Austin school board president Arati Singh said the state needs to make big investments in public education to increase teacher and staff pay longterm and avoid cuts to necessary programs.

“It’s not a ‘nice to have,’” Singh said. “It’s a ‘must have.’ We have to ensure there’s a qualified teacher in every classroom on the first day of school. We’re not willing to have uncertified teachers in our elementary classrooms.”

Lawmakers appear fated to return to the Capitol for a special session that will include school choice, according to a statement by Gov. Greg Abbott, who in recent months kicked off a tour of private schools across the state to tout a vouchers program.

Abbott last week called a special session to address property tax reform and border security , and said he'd call more special sessions to deliberate other priorities.

The Texas Legislature passed these public education bills:

• House Bill 3 – requires armed officers on all campuses, invests $330 million in school safety and increases auditing requirements.
• Senate Bill 10 – increases payments to retired teachers by 2% to 6%, depending on year retired, and gives a stipend of $2,400 or $7,500 to older retirees.
• HB 3928 – increases requirements for school districts to identify and serve students with dyslexia.
• HB 900 – prohibits library materials with content deemed sexually explicit and requires book publishers that sell to schools to create a rating system for a books' appropriateness.
• HB 1605 – directs the Texas Education Agency to create online materials for classroom use.
• HB 1707 – exempts charter schools, like school districts, from certain local zoning ordinances.

Bills that didn't get lawmakers' approval:

• HB 100 – would have increased per pupil funding by $140 and increased other school funding, but was derailed when the Senate a controversial school choice program proposal to the bill.
• HB 11 – would have set minimum salary requirements for teachers and increased teacher pay.
• SB 8 – would have created an education savings account program for all students and prohibited discussion of gender identity in schools.
• SB 9 – would have set minimum salary requirements for teachers and increased teacher pay.
• SB 418 – would have created requirements for how school districts prioritize students who are transferring in.
• SB 1515 – would have mandated the display of the Ten Commandments in every public school classroom.
• HB 772 – would have banned corporal punishment in schools.
• HB 4625 – would have prohibited identity-based bullying, harassment and cyberbullying in schools, and increased reporting requirements of such incidents.
• HB 1507 – would have prohibited in-school celebrations of sexual preference.

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University Graduate Field Supervisor 2024-2025

• Dallas, Texas, United States

Title: University Graduate Field Supervisor 2024-2025

Employee Classification:

Campus: University of North Texas - Dallas

Division: DAL-Academic Aff & Stdnt Success

SubDivision-Department: DAL-School of Education

Department: DAL-Teacher Education & Admin-518200

Job Location: Dallas

Salary: Commensurate with experience

Retirement Eligibility: Not Retirement Eligible

About Us - Values Overview:

Department Summary

The University of North Texas at Dallas invites applications for the position of Graduate Field Supervisor in the Teacher Education and Administration Graduate Schools. Graduate Field Supervisor goals are to prepare highly effective aspiring administrators, provide hands-on support and development that result in student achievement gains and foster positive school-university relationships. UNT Dallas – the first four-year public institution of higher education in the city – seeks an individual who will help shape the character of a 21st century, teaching-focused university. Candidates should be able to express enthusiastic support for the mission of the university to transform the lives of students, families and communities by providing high-quality, student-focused education in preparation for tomorrow’s careers, and its vision to create the place of choice where students are inspired to learn, faculty are inspired to teach and the community is inspired to support. For more information about the university, go to: http://untdallas.edu/

Position Overview

Responsibilities of the position include, but are not limited to: • Regular communication with administrators of aspiring Principal Candidates, and program faculty. • Supervise aspiring Principal Candidates in a internship/residency placement. • Conducts a minimum of 3 formal observations for the semester. Conducts a pre-and post-conference with each aspiring Principal Candidate for each formal observation. • Scores and discusses evaluative rubric. • Places aspiring Administrator Candidate on a Professional Improvement Plan, when warranted. • Ensure recording, uploading (within 24-hours of PA) and accurate labeling of performance assessments into Panopto. • Analyze, interpret, and apply data findings to improve candidate’s instructional competency. • Possess keen understanding of observation and effective feedback that enhances student academic performance. • Follow all rules and guidelines established by the district for acceptable Professional conduct and Dress. • Establish and maintain mutual respect, trust, communication, and confidentiality with candidates and the campus/ district personnel. • Maintain a frequent, recurring presence in the school sites. • Collaborate with district and school administrators to select high-quality mentor administrators. • Analyze, interpret and respond to mentor surveys of candidate’s performance. • Conduct mentor trainings with the support of local professional development facilitator. • Facilitate Governance Meetings with district stakeholders to create & foster a positive relationship with district and school site staff. • Participate in recruitment of new candidates. • Attend and participate in coordinator training and ongoing professional development meetings.

Minimum Qualifications

The successful candidate will possess the following required qualifications: • Master’s Degree in education-related field • Two or more years of principal or assistant principal experience • Minimum of three years of PK-12 teaching experience and a track-record of achieving student success in a public school or charter school setting • Current Principal Certification K-12 • Effective written and oral communication skills • Proficient with a variety of technology and computer hardware and software • Experience in instructional leadership, coaching aspiring principals, and facilitation of professional development • Experience in data analysis to create an action plan • Exceptional ability to organize, plan, and execute project tasks independently • Ability to develop and sustain school/community/university partnerships • Adherence to the TEA Code of Ethics

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Preferred Qualifications

The preferred candidate will possess the following additional qualifications: • Fully bilingual in English and Spanish • Current Principal Certification K-12 • Certified evaluator in T-TESS

Required License/Registration/Certifications

Current Principal Certification k-12 in area of supervision.

Job Duties:

See Position Overview

Work Schedule:

As required to meet the academic schedule of elementary, middle and high schools

Driving University Vehicle:

Security Sensitive:

This is a Security Sensitive Position.

Special Instructions:

Applicants must submit a resume, a cover letter and a list of three professional references that have observed you coaching aspiring administrators, or that have personally coached you

For information regarding our Benefits, click here .

EEO Statement:

The University of North Texas System is firmly committed to equal opportunity and does not permit -- and takes actions to prevent -- discrimination, harassment (including sexual violence) and retaliation on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its application and admission processes, educational programs and activities, facilities and employment practices. The University of North Texas System immediately investigates complaints of discrimination and takes remedial action when appropriate. The University of North Texas System also takes actions to prevent retaliation against individuals who oppose any form of harassment or discriminatory practice, file a charge or report, or testify, assist or participate in an investigative proceeding or hearing.

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Mindfully American

States That Pay Teachers the Most and Least, Ranked From 1 to 50

Posted: May 31, 2024 | Last updated: May 31, 2024

Teachers are an important part of students’ lives in the United States. Unfortunately, teachers are viewed as notoriously undervalued, especially when it comes to their pay. 

People going into the education profession do it partially for the passion of molding a new generation. Popular opinion indicates that teachers sacrifice not only their time but also the possibility of a higher-paying career when they sign up to lead a class. 

World Population Review looked through the numbers to rank which states pay teachers the most and least. If you or your loved ones work in education, you need to see the results. 

Teachers’ Pay Per State

World Population Review used data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the National Education Association to determine which states pay teachers the most. They analyzed teachers’ mean pay against the average salary of other residents in each state, as detailed by Forbes . 

Pay and retirement benefits are important factors for teachers-to-be to consider. South Carolina ranks highest in the nation when it comes to the quality of retirement benefits in the education profession. But where does the Palmetto State rank in terms of teachers’ pay before retirement? 

These are the states paying teachers the most and least annual wages.

1: California

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $92,960
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $60,640
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $128,680

2: New York

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $91,290
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $48,570
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $129,880

3: Washington

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $88,530
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $61,760
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $111,580

4: Massachusetts

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $82,960
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $49,820
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $111,040

5: Connecticut

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $80,230
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $48,470
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $106,620

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $79,780
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $47,980
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $117,320

7: New Jersey

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $79,460
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $60,150
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $103,490

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $74,870
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $49,260
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $99,480

9: Rhode Island

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $74,640
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $47,540
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $96,750

10: Virginia

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $74,120
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $47,230
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $131,920

11: Pennsylvania

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $73,810
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $48,930
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $101,220

12: Maryland

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $73,730
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $49,230
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $102,030

13: Illinois

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $72,480
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $46,550
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $102,270

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $70,320
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $45,920
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $100,650

15: Delaware

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $68,810
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $48,410
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $82,540

16: New Hampshire

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $68,250
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $47,290
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $93,030

17: Georgia

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $67,520
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $45,760
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $88,380

18: Michigan

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $66,840
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $40,980
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $93,840

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $66,620
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $48,510
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $84,800

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $66,290
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $48,000
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $93,420

21: Minnesota

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $64,500
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $46,400
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $80,460

22: Wyoming

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $63,730
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $49,940
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $77,640

23: Florida

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $63,470
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $47,600
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $82,530

24: Colorado

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $62,730
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $44,710
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $82,710

25: New Mexico

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $62,500
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $46,910
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $81,150

26: Wisconsin

• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $46,810
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $79,100

27: Vermont

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $62,320
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $46,630
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $79,060

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $61,210
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $48,280
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $76,970

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $60,790
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $47,000
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $78,170

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $60,490
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $39,800
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $79,850

31: Nebraska

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $60,250
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $47,560
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $77,010

32: Arizona

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $59,490
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $39,930
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $82,340

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $59,260
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $39,640
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $77,100

34: Indiana

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $58,690
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $40,020
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $78,770

35: Kentucky

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $58,160
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $40,650
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $79,040

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $57,780
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $41,420
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $77,440

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $56,590
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $45,880
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $74,000

38: North Dakota

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $56,510
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $46,530
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $77,570

39: Missouri

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $56,270
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $37,880
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $78,330

40: Tennessee

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $55,920
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $45,360
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $73,100

41: South Carolina

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $55,680
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $39,040
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $75,200

42: Alabama

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $55,050
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $46,710
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $63,200

43: Oklahoma

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $54,810
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $39,620
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $78,490

44: Montana

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $54,630
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $28,970
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $80,090

45: Louisiana

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $54,300
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $46,440
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $62,930

46: Arkansas

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $53,080
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $39,060
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $64,080

47: North Carolina

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $51,570
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $38,650
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $62,000

48: West Virginia

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $50,770
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $37,590
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $62,710

49: Mississippi

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $49,770
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $38,420
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $62,020

50: South Dakota

• Annual mean teacher’s salary: $49,190
• 10th percentile teacher’s wage: $38,620
• 90th percentile teacher’s wage: $59,840

Major Teacher Shortage

California and New York ranked first and second on World Population Review’s list. Although the pay is the highest in California, the Golden State faces a teacher shortage. There was a 16% decrease in new teacher credentials in California in 2023 compared to previous years. 

Meanwhile, New York is going through its own teacher shortage with approximately 2,000 fewer positions filled in 2023. Bilingual and special education teachers have the worst shortages. Burnout and stress are major factors in educators’ exit from the profession. 

Effort to Increase Pay

Aside from South Dakota being a cheaper place to live than California and New York, its 50th-place ranking for low teacher salaries reportedly has to do with inflation and the lack of state aid for teachers. Specifically, one district’s attempt to pay teachers more and offer better benefits has improved hiring numbers.

The South Dakota Legislature also attempted to infuse tax dollars into public education starting in 2016 following a state sales tax increase. However, the initiative failed to bump up South Dakota’s teacher pay higher on World Population Review’s list because the targets for teachers’ pay increases were outpaced by factors like the pandemic and inflation. 

Costs Fall on Teachers

Out-of-pocket expenses make it harder for educators to maintain their careers and have a positive effect on teachers’ pay. Reportedly, 90% of teachers spend their hard-earned money on supplies and other necessities for their students. One teacher in Michigan says books in their school’s library are on the shelves because they were bought by teachers. 

One report states that teachers individually spent approximately $800 of their own money on supplies during the 2022 school year. Supplies teachers pay for themselves include pens, paper, organizing bins, art supplies, and even snacks. 

19 Historical U.S. Myths That Annoy History Buffs to the Core

If your teacher taught it in history class, it’s normal to assume it’s true. Ask any historian, though, and you might be surprised to learn the stuff of school history lessons is often riddled with inaccuracies. 

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