Those looking for a fulfilling career where they can make a difference in the lives of young people should consider becoming a special education teacher. Students studying special education should have no issue landing a full-time position after graduation, as teachers are in high demand in Michigan.
Mairead Brock, a special education student at Alma College and a college ambassador for OPTIMISE, stated, “Special education students are going to be in the program anyway. A lot of them just need a teacher that actually cares for them and recognizes their differences but also realizes they are able to achieve the same things as a general education student. They just need a little bit more help.”
The Perks of Studying Special Education
Students studying to become teachers can benefit from a special education minor or, at the very least, a few special ed courses.
“Every single teacher is going to be a special education teacher because you’re still interacting with these kids and you need to know and understand their needs,” Brock said. “Students in the program don’t spend all day in the special ed classroom; they also have some classes with the general education kids.”
One attraction to entering the field is that teachers with a background and experience in special education often earn higher salaries or bonuses than candidates with only an elementary or secondary education degree. Another plus is that individuals with a special education degree can try different teaching positions later in their careers. For example, if a special ed teacher has a degree in elementary education, they can take a job opening to teach third grade further down the road.
How To Decide If A Special Education Career Is For You
Prospective special education majors are encouraged to immerse themselves in hands-on learning experiences by taking classes and job shadowing professionals. These experiences will allow them to see what the daily responsibilities of a special education teacher are and if this is a field they would like to pursue. If they decide it’s not for them, they can add a minor or specialization to their degree to ensure they still gain the crucial knowledge.
“I knew after my first special education class at Alma that this is where I needed to be,” Brock said.
OPTIMISE, founded in 2022, offers guidance and resources for those dedicated to helping students with disabilities in the classroom. The program works to attract, prepare and retain professionals in the special education field.
Learn more at OPTIMISE.education.
Source: Bridge Michigan.com
