Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
A High School Special Education Teacher specializes in educating and supporting high school students with a range of disabilities, including learning, mental, emotional, and physical disabilities. They focus on adapting curriculum and teaching strategies to meet the diverse needs of their students and prepare them for life after high school.
Education: Bachelor's degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 0.5% (below average)
Annual job openings: 11,100
Direct AI exposure: 15% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 44% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $74K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $50K per year | $60K per year | $74K per year | $94K per year | $109K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $23K above the national average. | ||||
These teachers work in public and private high schools, special education centers, and sometimes in residential facilities. The work environment is tailored to support the educational and developmental needs of students with disabilities, which may include specialized classroom equipment and assistive technology. Collaboration with other educators, parents, and support staff is a key component.
High School Special Education Teachers play a critical role in the academic and personal development of students with special needs. They are responsible for creating an inclusive, supportive learning environment that recognizes and accommodates the individual needs of each student. These educators work closely with students to develop their academic skills, as well as social, emotional, and life skills. Their goal is to help students reach their full potential and prepare for life beyond high school, whether that includes further education, employment, or independent living.
The job involves continuous collaboration with other education professionals, including general education teachers, school counselors, and therapists, to provide comprehensive support to students. Special Education Teachers also maintain close communication with families to ensure a consistent and effective approach to each student's education and development. They need to be adept at modifying curriculum, using various teaching methods, and employing assistive technologies to enhance student learning.
Being a High School Special Education Teacher requires patience, creativity, and a deep understanding of diverse educational needs. It's a role that demands empathy and the ability to build strong, trusting relationships with students. Educators in this field need to be flexible and adaptive, constantly seeking the most effective ways to reach and teach their students.
Becoming a High School Special Education Teacher typically requires a bachelor's degree in special education or a related field, which involves about 4 years of post-secondary education. Teachers must also obtain state licensure or certification in special education, which generally includes supervised student teaching and may require additional coursework or endorsements aligned with specific disability areas or grade levels.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
