Special education teachers in elementary school work with young students who face various learning disabilities. They may aim to help students transition into regular classes, or simply help them improve functionality. Every student should be evaluated separately, as the limitations and abilities of each student vary greatly. The job may occasionally involve assisting students with hygiene or mobility, so it is important to have necessary physical strength, as well.

This job can be physically grueling, as the teacher will be walking and standing for long periods of time to interact with students. Strong communication skills are important in order to work well with students, teachers, and assistants, and also to help parents understand how to educate their children at home. Multi-tasking skills are also important, as these teachers may need to provide different activities for different students.

Because this is a busy and challenging job, patient and compassionate teachers are ideal and natural teaching abilities are essential in order to help students grasp concepts in interesting ways. General teaching guidelines may be provided by the school and/or district, but creativity is also important in order to implement lessons in an engaging manner. A bachelor’s degree in education or special education may be required. (Copyright 2018 PayScale.com)

Special Education Teacher, Preschool, Kindergarten, or Elementary School Tasks

• Evaluate students and communicate progress with parents, guardians, and administrators.
• Plan, assign, and evaluate lessons, projects and tests.
• Maintain classroom discipline.
• Maintain accurate student records as required by laws and administrative regulations.
• Instruct elementary students individually and in groups.

For Elementary School, Kindergarten, and Preschool Special Education Teachers, working in the bustling city of New York has its advantages, including an above-average pay rate. Elementary School, Kindergarten, and Preschool Special Education Teachers will also find cushy salaries in Los Angeles (+19 percent), Houston (+11 percent), San Antonio (+8 percent), and Chicago (+5 percent). Falling short of the national average by 20 percent, the area with the worst salaries is Atlanta. Employers pay around 14 percent less in Orlando and 10 percent less in Indianapolis, below-median salaries for those in this field.