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15 Top-Paying States for Special Education Teachers

Plus tips for maximizing your salary.

In the education job market, special education teachers are always in high demand. In 2019, 44 states reported special education teacher shortages, and by 2022, that jumped to 48 (source: NPR ). Federal law ( IDEA ) states that students with disabilities must be taught by fully licensed teachers. This means that states may try to get creative with staffing special education classrooms. In the past, states have tried to attract and retain special education teachers with alternative licensure programs and other pathways to licensure. But recently, they’ve been turning to cold hard cash in the form of special education teacher signing bonuses and salary increases.

Show Me the Money: States Giving Cash for Special Ed

In 2020, Hawaii started paying special education teachers $10,000 more per year. (Source: NPR ).

Even places that don’t report as much challenge filling special education classrooms are putting their money where their mouth is. Metro Atlanta, Georgia, is offering $5,000 sign-on incentives to special education teachers (Source: The74million.org ).

It’s not clear if salary bumps work—Oklahoma provides a 5% salary bump for special education teachers, but that hasn’t necessarily decreased shortages. According to Education Week , some districts have increased special education teacher salary incentives to as high as 10% or offered signing bonuses of $2,000 to $3,000.

I don’t know about you, but my paycheck matters.

Aside from the cash bonuses, in 2023, special education teachers are paid an average of $54,290 across all states, according to an April 2023 Zippia study . This is an average of $26.10 per hour based on working 40 hours per week and 52 weeks per year (but who’s calculating).

Top 15 States for Special Education Teacher Salary

1. maryland.

Median salary: $76,282

Hourly rate: $36.72

Salary range: $53,000–$108,000

Median salary: $77,146

Hourly rate: $37.09

Salary range: $64,000–$91,000

3. Washington

Median salary: $63,434

Hourly rate: $30.50

Salary range: $45,000–$87,000

4. New York

Median salary: $64,250

Hourly rate: $30.89

Salary range: $45,000–$90,000

5. California

Median salary: $63,874

Hourly rate: $30.71

Salary range: $45,000–$89,000

6. Connecticut

Median salary: $60,164

Hourly rate: $28.93

Salary range: $42,000–$84,000

Median salary: $59,266

Hourly rate: $28.49

Salary range: $42,000–$81,000

8.  New Jersey

Median salary: $60,228

Hourly rate: $28.96

Salary range: $42,000–$85,900

9.  Massachusetts

Median salary: $58,591

Hourly rate: $28.17

Salary range: $42,000–$80,000

10.  Virginia

Median salary: $56,559

Hourly rate: $27.19

Salary range: $40,000–$79,000

11.  Rhode Island

Median salary: $55,984

Hourly rate: $25.92

Salary range: $40,000–$78,000

12.  Delaware

Median salary: $55,147

Hourly rate: $26.51

Salary range: $38,000–$78,000

13.  Wyoming

Median salary: $55,244

Hourly rate: $26.56

Salary range: $41,000–$74,000

14.  Pennsylvania

Median salary: $54,620

Hourly rate: $25.78

Salary range: $37,000–$75,000

15.  Illinois

Median salary: $51,414

Hourly rate: $24.72

Salary range: $37,000–$70,000

Don’t see your state on the list? Find it in the Zippia report .

How to maximize your special education teacher salary.

Once in special education, you can direct your expertise to maximize pay for the job.

Work in a specialized teaching location.

Teaching as a homebound teacher and in other specialized teaching locations may boost your pay. Homebound teachers provide services for students who are required to learn from home.

Earn credits for speech-language pathology.

If you’d like to earn more money and are up for some additional education, earn credentials to become a speech-language pathologist .

Work for a staffing company instead of a school district.

Education staffing companies like Kaleidoscope Education Solutions or the Birch Agency provide special education teachers through contracted services, which may pay higher than going directly through a district.

Would you sign up to teach special education for a boost in pay? Share on our WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group  on Facebook.

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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)

Special education teacher salary

The average salary for a special education teacher in the United States is around $53,317 per year.

Special education teachers earn an average yearly salary of $ 53,317 . Wages typically start from $ 35,686 and go up to $ 79,661 .

17 % below national average ● Updated in 2018

Special education teacher earnings by seniority

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 the United States. On average, they make less than elementary school teachers but more than teachers.

Source: CareerExplorer (Aggregated)

• Pennsylvania
• Reciprocity
• Associate's
• Ed Specialist
• Early Childhood Ed
• Elementary Ed
• Secondary Ed
• All Specialties
• Early Childhood
• High School
• All Careers

Teacher Certification Degrees » Teaching Career Center » Special Education Teacher Career Guide

Special Education Teacher Career Guide

• Author: Audrey Stoffle
• Expert Reviewer: Jacquelyn King
• Editorial Process

A special education (sometimes called SPED or shortened to special ed) teacher works with children of different ages who have a range of learning, cognitive, emotional, or physical challenges. This guide provides information on what special education teachers do, how to become one, and special education teacher salary and job outlook.

Table of Contents

• How to Become
• Schools and Certification by State
• Job Description
• Salary & Job Outlook

Additional Resources

Frequently asked questions, related pages, how to become a special education teacher.

Special education requirements in all states call for licensure to teach at a public school. Depending on the school, some employers require a master’s degree for special needs teachers, though others only require a bachelor’s degree . Teachers who are already certified and want to add a special education endorsement to their license, or people who already have an undergraduate degree in something else, may pursue a master’s degree in special education. While private schools usually require a bachelor’s degree to teach, they do not always require certification. To qualify for licensure to teach in public schools, the degree must typically include a teacher preparation program approved by the state in which it is located. The most common pathway toward a career in teaching special education is:

• Earn a state-approved bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in special education.
• Complete a student teaching internship in a special education classroom.
• Take your state’s required tests for special education teachers.
• Apply for your teaching license.
• Begin applying to open special education positions.

Traditional and online bachelor’s degree programs in special education require coursework in methods, foundations of education, assessment, assistive technology, special education law, and planning and curriculum focused on special needs. Most states require student teaching placement in a classroom for teacher licensure in this area. Certification in special education also requires tests in general content and special education, though exam requirements vary depending on the certifying state.

Some states offer alternative licensure programs for prospective teachers, though in many cases special education is not an approved career track through alternative certification due to the intensive preparation required to work with children with differing needs. To find out how to get your master’s in special education online, see our online master’s in special education guide .

Education Schools and Certification by State

Each state has its own process for becoming a teacher. Below, you will find schools in your state that offer teacher preparation programs, as well as information on traditional and alternative certification pathways specific to your state.

Special Education Teacher Job Description

The role of a special education teacher includes assisting general education teachers in identifying and assessing children who may have disabilities or special needs. They then adjust lessons to fit the needs of each child as part of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Since they are responsible for instructing students with a broad range of disabilities, developing IEPs is important for these teachers. One child may require flashcards for sharpening math skills or focused attention on reading, while another may require a teacher to help with basic life skills, such as how to answer questions or follow instructions.

They may teach at the elementary, middle, or secondary school level at public or private schools, and their students range in ability. Some have their own classrooms where they teach one or more groups of students while others work in general classrooms, with special needs children learning alongside other students (“mainstreaming”). In some cases, the special education teacher may co-teach the class, or they may teach in support or breakout roles.

Common Tasks

Similar to teachers of other subjects, special education teachers plan lessons, instruct children, and assign activities to children. They also grade assignments and tests, track students’ progress, and meet with parents to discuss students’ abilities and challenges they may be facing.

Helpful Skills and Experience

Special education teachers need to be patient, calm, organized, inspiring, and accepting. The job requires interactions with children who differ in abilities and come from all types of backgrounds. Students who receive special education services have various needs that require special attention and understanding. Organizational skills, excellent communication and presentation skills, and sound decision-making skills are important for any prospective teacher. Teachers with prior experience in teaching, especially of children with disabilities, will stand out from others.

Special Education Teacher Salary and Job Outlook

There are 498,040 special education teachers in the US, and the special education teaching profession is expected to see no job growth through 2032. 1 . Most public elementary, middle, and high schools, along with some preschools, hire special education teachers. The general national trend is that special needs children enrollment is increasing and qualified special education teachers with the right qualifications are in short supply. 1 According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for a special education teacher was $62,950. Following is an employment, salary, and outlook breakdown of special education teachers:

• The National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET) : NASET provides support for special education teachers, job listings, important news, and resources.
• The Council for Exceptional Children : An advocacy association for special education, this website provides information about professional development, policies and standards in the field, and other helpful resources for special education teachers.
• Special Education Blogs : Our list of special education blogs addressing issues in and methods of teaching learners with special needs.

Question : Do special education teachers get paid more than general teachers?

Answer : Nationally the average pay for special education teachers tends to be around the same as elementary, middle, and secondary school teachers focused on teaching the standard curriculum. 1,2,3,4 However, salary differences can vary greatly in different regions.

Question: Why do gifted students need special education?

Answer: Special education can be defined as education that is different from the norm, which can also extend to above-average learners such as gifted and talented students. These students are sometimes classified with disabled students under the larger umbrella of exceptional learners. Exceptional learners may require or benefit from exceptional education, or education that is approached differently than that which takes place in the regular classroom. While most degree programs prepare traditional special education teachers differently than teachers of gifted students, there can be some overlap in coursework among these programs due to this correlation. See our Gifted and Talented Teacher Career Guide if you are interested in this type of career.

Question : Do special education teachers get summers off?

Answer : Like general education teachers, special education teachers typically work a 10-month school year, with two months off during the summer. Teachers’ schedules will vary according to their school’s schedules, but some also use those months to prepare lessons for the coming school year or to teach summer courses if they would like supplemental income.

Question : Can special education teachers teach regular classes?

Answer : That depends on the state and the school. Many states do not allow special education teachers to teach general education students, but others do. Also, private schools tend to have different standards. It is best to check with your state board of education.

• Reading Specialist Career Guide
• Special Education Degree Guide

References: 1. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Special Education Teachers: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/special-education-teachers.htm 2. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2022, 25-2051 Special Education Teachers, Preschool: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes252051.htm 3. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2022, 25-2052 Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School: https://www.bls.gov/Oes/current/oes252052.htm 4. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2022, 25-2053 Special Education Teachers, Middle School: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes252057.htm 5. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2022, 25-2054 Special Education Teachers, Secondary School: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes252058.htm 6. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2022, 25-2059 Special Education Teachers, All Other: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes252059.htm

Special Education Teacher Salary and Job Description

Special education teachers play an important role in their students’ lives. In addition to assessing each student’s unique needs and capabilities, they also develop a custom-tailored educational plan for each student that’s designed to create opportunities for their learning and growth. 

Professionals interested in pursuing this career path should start by gaining a deeper understanding of the job role and salary for special education teachers to see if the position is a fit for them. They can then develop the knowledge and skills needed to help children and adolescents with special needs meet their full potential. Earning an advanced degree, such as an online Master of Arts in Teaching , can prepare individuals to take a thoughtful, multidisciplinary approach to special education.

Special Education Teacher Job Description

Special education teachers work with children and adolescents who have physical, cognitive, and/or emotional disabilities. These educators also work with the students’ parents, psychologists, social workers, and school psychologists, among others, to develop individualized education programs (IEPs) for each student that address the student’s unique strengths and challenges. 

Although the specific day-to-day duties of special education teachers can vary based on where they work and their students’ ages, common daily duties include the following:

• Assessing students’ skills and educational needs
• Adapting lesson plans to meet each students’ individualized needs
• Tracking students’ performance
• Developing, modifying, and updating IEPs
• Discussing students’ progress with their other teachers

Special education teachers should also possess certain skills and abilities to assist special education students with various needs. These include: 

• Effective communication to maintain positive relationships with students and their parents 
• Adaptable and able to pick up new teaching methods
• Compassionate and patient with students 
• Able to work with students from different backgrounds and who have different abilities 

Educational Requirements for Special Education Teachers

Individuals interested in pursuing a career in special education must hold at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as mathematics, science, English, or special education, to pursue jobs in this field; individuals wanting to work in Connecticut, Maryland, or New York must also hold a master’s degree. Additionally, public schools in all 50 states require special education teachers to be licensed, but many private schools do not have this requirement.  

To become licensed, aspiring special education teachers must earn a bachelor’s degree, complete a set number of student teaching hours, pass a background check, and pass a general teaching certification test. The minimum grade point average (GPA) and quality point average (QPA) that students must have graduated with and the number of student teaching hours they must complete before they can sit for their licensing exam varies from state to state. 

Licensing terms also vary by state. For example, some states require teachers to renew their licenses every two years, while other states have five-year licensing terms. To renew a license, teachers must complete a set number of continuing education credits. The specific requirements for each state are established by each state’s department of education.

Possible Work Environments for Special Education Teachers

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that, in 2020, special education teachers held more than 463,000 jobs throughout the United States. A majority of the professionals working in this field were employed in kindergartens and elementary schools (a total of 188,600), while approximately 140,900 were employed by secondary schools. 

Although 83 percent of all special education teachers were employed by public institutions, the BLS notes that a small percentage of individuals were employed elsewhere, such as in students’ homes, residential care facilities, and hospitals.  

Most special education teachers work Monday through Friday during school hours, and many work the traditional 10-month school year and have two months off during the summer. Educators also tend to have short breaks during the winter and spring. However, some educators work a year-round schedule, which often entails nine weeks of working followed by three weeks off, and some choose to work for summer programs.

Special Education Teacher Salary and Job Outlook

The BLS projects that the employment of special education teachers will increase by 8 percent between 2020 and 2030, which is about as fast as the job growth that’s projected for all occupations, and approximately 38,600 jobs are expected to be available each year during that period. Job growth within this field will be driven by an anticipated uptick in K-12 student enrollments and by the fact that children’s disabilities are being identified earlier. 

The BLS further reports that, as of May 2021, the median annual wage for special education teachers was $61,820, with teachers in the top 10th percentile earning more than $100,040 annually.  Special education teacher salaries can vary based on a number of factors, such as a teacher’s experience level, whether they’ve completed an advanced education, and the geographical region in which their position is located. For example, individuals employed in high cost-of-living states, such as California, often receive higher salaries than professionals employed in lower cost-of-living states, such as Kentucky.

Pursue Your Dream of Teaching the Next Generation

Professionals interested in taking their teaching career to the next level are likely to find that earning an advanced degree, such as an online Master of Arts in Teaching degree from American University, can prepare them to deliver a high-level educational experience to students of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. 

Coursework in this 100 percent online program includes classes such as Effective Teaching for Diverse Students, Theories of Educational Psychology and Human Development, and Foundations for Special Education for Exceptional Children. 

On completing the program, graduates will be prepared with the foundational knowledge and expertise needed to take a multidisciplinary approach to teaching. Discover how American University’s online Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program can prepare you to take the next step in your professional journey. 

How to Incorporate Mindfulness in the Classroom

How to Get Students’ Attention: Maintaining Interest in the Digital Classroom

How Teachers Can Overcome Imposter Syndrome

Indeed, Special Education Teacher Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

Indeed, “What Does a Special Education Teacher Do? Duties and Salary”

Understood, Understanding IEPs

US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Special Education Teachers

Workable, Special Education Teacher Job Description

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Elementary Special Education Teacher salary

Average elementary special education teacher salary, how much does an elementary special education teacher make.

The average elementary special education teacher salary in the United States is $51,859. Elementary special education teacher salaries typically range between $38,000 and $70,000 yearly. The average hourly rate for elementary special education teachers is $24.93 per hour. Elementary special education teacher salary is impacted by location, education, and experience. Elementary special education teachers earn the highest average salary in Alaska.

Where can an Elementary Special Education Teacher earn more?

Elementary special education teacher salary estimates from across the web, average elementary special education teacher salary by state.

The highest-paying states for elementary special education teachers are Alaska, Maryland, and New York. The lowest average elementary special education teacher salary states are Indiana, Arkansas, and Arizona.

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Highest paying states for elementary special education teachers

Highest paying cities for elementary special education teachers.

The highest-paying cities for elementary special education teachers are Baltimore, MD, Washington, DC, and New York, NY.

Elementary Special Education Teacher salary details

An elementary special education teacher's salary ranges from $38,000 a year at the 10th percentile to $70,000 at the 90th percentile.

What is an elementary special education teacher's salary?

Highest paying elementary special education teacher jobs.

The highest paying types of elementary special education teachers are science teacher, student teacher, and reading teacher.

Top companies hiring elementary special education teachers now:

• Chicago Public Schools Jobs (7)
• Los Angeles Unified School District Jobs (7)
• Savannah-Chatham County Public School System Jobs (68)
• Montgomery County Public Schools Jobs (7)
• Denver Public Schools Jobs (11)

Which companies pay elementary special education teachers the most?

Elementary special education teacher salaries at Baltimore City Public Schools and DC International School are the highest-paying according to our most recent salary estimates. In addition, the average elementary special education teacher salary at companies like San Jacinto Unified School District and Bilinguals are highly competitive.

Wage gap by gender, race and education

Elementary special education teacher salary trends.

The average elementary special education teacher salary has risen by $5,778 over the last ten years. In 2014, the average elementary special education teacher earned $46,081 annually, but today, they earn $51,859 a year. That works out to a 6% change in pay for elementary special education teachers over the last decade.

Compare elementary special education teacher salaries for cities or states with the national average over time.

Average elementary special education teacher salary over time

Compare elementary special education teacher salaries for individual cities or states with the national average.

Elementary Special Education Teacher salary by year

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Job Posting 2024-2025 School Year Special Education Teacher - Elementary

Woodbine board of education | woodbine, nj.

Posting Date:   May 20, 2024

Starts :  August 26, 2024 (Upon completion of background check and clearance)

Terms of Employment:  10-month teaching position; salary based on association contract

Qualifications:

• Required - Valid NJ Instructional Certification: Teacher of the Handicapped or Students with Disabilities with Elementary School Teacher in Grades K-6 (Standard, CE, or CEAS)
• Preferred - Valid NJ Instructional Specialized Certification:  Middle School Mathematics or Middle School Language Arts Literacy for Grades 5-8
• Criminal history background check, proof of U.S. Citizenship, or eligibility to work in the U.S. required.
• New Jersey Residency required.

Responsibility:

• Provides instruction, accommodations, and modifications to classified students in accordance with their individualized education programs and the NJ Student Learning Standards.
• Works collaboratively with colleagues to coordinate instructional activities, monitor the progress of each pupil, and provide support instruction in an inclusion classroom.
• Consults with colleagues and the Child Study Team to effectively meet the academic, behavioral, and personal goals of students as noted in IEPs and learning plans.
• Establishes and maintains a positive classroom climate, providing opportunities for students’ social and emotional growth.
• Maintains student records of academic progress to provide individualized, data-driven instruction.
• Maintains good relationships with students, parents, and other staff members.
• Meets professional responsibilities as outlined by the district.

Submit letter of interest, resume, and copy of certifications to:

Carleena Supp, Superintendent

[email protected]

The position will remain open until filled.

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Elementary Special Education Teacher 2024-2025

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