Personal Statement: A Career In Special Education

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I have always wished to help those who need it. At first I wanted to be a fireman, or a policeman, because I wanted to help out anyone I could. But then I realized that there were others that needed help, but not everyone was willing to help them. Those affected by disorders, whether behavioral or learning or physical, they were put into special education. I heard that schools were running low on special education teachers and right then I knew what I wanted to do. This paper will explore the job description, requirements and salary for a special education teacher. First, becoming a teacher requires just a few things. The Occupational Handbook shares that you will be required to know how to work with all types of disabled children, or at least …show more content…

Not every student will know how to grab a pencil to write their name, or how to read. You will need to help them learn (Occupational Handbook). Next, the Occupational Handbook tells the hours you will be expected to work. Obviously you will be on the job during school hours, but most times the job does not end when the students leave, as a teacher must grade homework or other assignments. Teachers get the same two month summer as students do but some may choose to work for special programs during that time. Also, the working environment should also be considered. The Occupational Handbook notes that while most special education teachers work at public schools, a small amount instead work at hospitals or even go directly to their student’s house to help not only the kid, but also help the parents learn how to teach their child. Most special education teachers call the experience rewarding, but it can be stressful (Occupational Handbook). Finally, like every other profession, special education teachers face advantages and disadvantages. Tanya Robertson, a teacher and writer for Chron, shares that teachers are passionate about …show more content…

To start, the Occupational Handbook tells that in order to become a teacher you need a bachelor’s degree and a state-issued teaching license. To be in special education, while a degree in special education is not strictly required, it can only help your chances of getting the position (Occupational Handbook). Next, it is important to know where you can get training. The top college offering special education is Emporia State University, though there are many other colleges in Kansas that offer it. In addition, there are secondary teaching programs that will let you teach without a degree. But also, the length of the training needs to be considered. The Occupational Handbook notes that the usual length of time it takes to earn a bachelor’s degree is four years, usually at a price of 22, 265 dollars. However, this is not set in stone and may vary from person to person. Finally, this job requires certain traits and talents. The Occupational Handbook shares that special education requires impressive interpersonal skills. The teacher will need to be able to have great chemistry with the kids they are teaching and be able to explain everything that goes on to the parents. Teachers will work closely with each other and the parents to ensure a great schooling experience. Next, you must have incredible patience. Not every kid will understand right away, or even at all. Some will refuse to work. Some of