If you've ever considered enrolling in one of the many special education certification programs, chances are you've thought long and hard about the extraordinary students you'll be teaching. Special education teachers work with students who have been diagnosed with a wide range of learning disabilities. There are some students whose disabilities allow them to remain a part of the general classroom population, although they must have significant one-on-one time with a special education teacher in order to hone reading, writing, and study skills. Special education teachers-sometimes called special needs teachers-work with the classroom teachers to modify the curriculum so that their students can succeed.

Other special needs students, however, have disabilities that are severe enough that they must learn separately from the general school population. Students such as these may still attend a regular school and simply go to a special classroom or classrooms that are equipped with learning materials suited for their abilities. Otherwise, they might attend a completely different school, where the population is made up of other students who have been diagnosed with other severe disabilities. In either case, the classes usually have a low student-to-faculty ratio which ensures that all students will be serviced in the ways that will most benefit their learning experience.

Special education teachers earn bachelor's degrees, then go on for concentrated coursework at the graduate level. They also complete student teaching experiences that enable them to work hands-on with students having special needs. One of the ways in which special education teachers help their students is through an Individualized Education Program, or IEP. The IEP is a written document detailing a student's abilities, needs, and goals for the current academic year. The IEP not only helps the team of special education teachers stay on track, but it is also an excellent reference for regular classroom teachers, who can structure lessons for the general population so that a variety of learning abilities can be reached.

Special Education Teachers Are in a Class By Themselves
Most special education teachers have bachelor's degrees in education, though it is at the master's level where one usually concentrates their studies in special education. Other backgrounds that are helpful for a special education teacher are psychology and child development. After the master's degree, special education teachers can take more courses or earn an additional degree that will enable them to become supervisors or school administrators, though many special education teachers prefer to stay working directly with students.

In addition to having the necessary education and licensure, special education teachers must have excellent interpersonal skills, as they usually work on a team with other teachers, counselors, and administrators to serve their target population. While all teachers require patience, special needs teachers need a particular brand of patience that enables them to be sensitive to the differences and needs of their students. An upbeat manner is a great trait to have as a special education teacher because working with special needs students and their families can be a stressful experience at times, particularly when the student has any difficulties or setbacks with the curriculum.

The salaries of special education teachers vary greatly depending on the school system. However, the Bureau of Labor Statistics noted that the median salary for special education teachers in 2006 was $47,650. Most teachers belong to unions, which means that regular percentage increases in salary and benefits are mandated by contracts. Like all teachers, the salary for special education teachers depends upon the level of education achieved, as well as the number of years the educator has taught.

If you want to make a difference in the world of a special needs student, become a special needs teacher and attend one of the many excellent education programs offered by a college or university.