Expected Annual Pay (Texas)
$60,810
Average salary range
Job Title
Special Education Teacher (Public School)
Job Outlook (Texas)
+12%
Employment growth
Level of Education Required
Bachelor’s degree in Special Education or a closely related field; Some educators pursue master's degrees in special education, educational leadership, behavior analysis, or related areas
Minimum requirement
Credentials or Licenses Required
Special education teachers in Texas must hold a valid Texas teaching certificate and a valid Texas special education certificate. Special education teachers serving as the teacher of record must also hold the appropriate grade-banded content certification for the subjects they teach or otherwise meet Texas content competency requirements.
Licenses / Certificates
Work Experience Typically Required
Many special education teachers gain experience working with children in educational or support roles before becoming teachers. Experience collaborating with families, educators, and related service providers is often valuable.
Related experience needed
What is this role responsible for day to day?
A special education teacher supports students with disabilities by providing instruction, accommodations, and services that help them succeed academically and socially. Day‑to‑day work includes:
- Developing and implementing individualized education programs (IEPs)
- Providing specialized instruction aligned to students’ learning needs
- Collaborating with general education teachers, specialists, and support staff
- Monitoring student progress and adjusting instruction as needed
- Documenting services, progress, and compliance with special education requirements
- Meeting with families to discuss student progress and support needs
- Participating in ARD meetings and campus collaboration meetings
Career Snapshots
Explore different career paths within education and find the one that fits your passion
Brandy
Brandy began her career as an assistant teacher in an inclusive preschool classroom. Working alongside therapists and educators helped her develop a passion for supporting children with diverse developmental and learning needs. After earning her degree and special education certification, she became a special education teacher. She hopes to eventually become a special education coordinator and support services across multiple campuses.
Xavier
Xavier started as a special education paraprofessional in an elementary school, where he supported students with IEPs in both general and special education settings. The experience inspired him to pursue his teaching certification and become a special education teacher. He enjoys collaborating with families, teachers, and specialists to help students reach their goals and would like to become an instructional specialist in the future.
Nyla
Nyla first worked as an afterschool teacher serving children with a wide range of learning and developmental needs. Through that experience, she discovered a passion for individualized instruction and student advocacy. After completing her degree and certification requirements, she became a special education teacher. She plans to remain in the classroom long-term because she enjoys building relationships with students and helping them achieve meaningful progress over time.
What are some skills or personal traits that people in this role typically have?
Special education teachers are patient, flexible, and highly organized. They communicate clearly with students, families, and colleagues, adapt instruction to meet diverse needs, and advocate for students’ success. They are problem‑solvers who manage multiple responsibilities at once.
What are some jobs that people had earlier in their careers?
People in this role often previously worked as:
People in this role often previously worked as:
- General Education Teacher
- Special Education Teaching Assistant or Aide
- Substitute Teacher
What are some jobs that people in this role have later in their careers?
With experience, people in this role may move into:
With experience, special education teachers may move into roles such as:
- Instructional Coach or Specialist
- Special Education Coordinator or Program Lead
- Assistant Principal or Campus Administrator