I’ve been working with kids ages 0-7 since I was 13. I’m 21 now with an associate’s in Early Childhood Education. I work at an ABA clinic as a Behavioral Therapist, mainly with kids on the autism spectrum. It’s been almost two years now, and I love it, especially working with special needs kids.
My current job pays $20 an hour, which seems fair for what I do. The kids I work with are 3-6 years old and not physically aggressive, so that’s manageable for me. Now, I’m thinking about going back to school for my Bachelor’s degree, but I’m not sure what to major in or what career path to follow. Special Ed is on my mind, but I’ve heard mixed opinions.
I’ve read some posts saying a bachelor’s in Special Education limits you to only being a teacher, and I don’t want to feel stuck. I know you can do ABA, speech pathology, school psychology, or become a Special Ed teacher or social worker. Given my experience, what would you suggest? I want to get back to school as soon as possible.
Any advice or personal experience would really help. Thanks!
Yes, it’s a growing field, but only go for it if you’re okay with teaching kids who need special services. Otherwise, you’ll regret the time spent at university.
I’m a school secretary and I’ve always wanted to teach. I’m 36 and working on finishing my diploma now. I’m considering teaching history or cognitive impairment certification and maybe speech pathology or even a library master’s. Here’s what I’ve learned:
In my district, speech pathologists need a master’s degree, school counselors need a master’s too, and school psychologists aren’t the same as counselors—they need specific psychologist licensure. Social workers, from my experience, have a degree in social work, not teaching.
Special Ed teachers face a lot of paperwork and not enough support. But, they often have smaller class sizes, which is a plus. I’ve worked in middle and high schools, and I know I couldn’t handle elementary school; it’s too emotionally heavy for me.
It’s a tough job, and you need to have a passion for it because the pay and the hours won’t always feel worth it. But if it’s in your heart to do it, then you might find it rewarding in ways that go beyond money.
Education is getting worse with every passing year—long hours, no overtime, scripted lesson plans, and kids who are sometimes violent. The administration has its hands tied, and funding is at an all-time low. I’ve been in Special Ed for 34 years, and I’m ready to be done. Don’t go into it if you want a rewarding career.
@Brandy
It depends on where you are. I’m 15 years in, and I’m in a good place. My pay is great, I’m supported by admin and parents, and our union is really strong.
Special Ed teachers are in high demand right now, so salaries are going up, and we can ask for more. If you’re going into teaching, find districts that pay extra for IEP writing, have strong unions, and don’t have crazy turnover.
Special Ed is in trouble right now. Schools are ignoring IEPs, and they’re getting sued. Be careful if you’re considering this as a career because it’s becoming a mess.
aloisbeard said:
Special Ed is in trouble right now. Schools are ignoring IEPs, and they’re getting sued. Be careful if you’re considering this as a career because it’s becoming a mess.
You’re being a little dramatic. It’s not all that bad everywhere.
I’m in a similar boat. I’ve worked with kids since I was 16, and now I’m homeschooling my 3rd and 8th grader. I’m going back to school to become a licensed Special Ed teacher for K-8.
Talk to a university near you. They’ll tell you about their programs and which ones might be a good fit. In Oregon, there’s a school known for its great education programs, and I’m planning to apply there. If I’m going into debt, I want to go to the best school.
Also, check out loan forgiveness programs for teachers. There’s a lot of help out there. Special Ed needs passionate people, so if it feels like your calling, I say go for it!
If you love helping kids with special needs, getting a degree in Special Education could be a good choice. You’ll gain valuable skills, like patience and empathy, while making a real difference.