Are you looking for a job that will allow you really make a difference in the lives of others? If so, you might want to consider pursuing a career as a special education teacher. Before, you decide that becoming a special education teacher is right for you, however, it is important for you to explore the pros and cons of this career path.

Pro: Getting to Know Your Students on a Personal Level

As a special education teacher, you will generally find yourself working with the same students for many years in a row. In fact, if you are a special education teacher who works at the elementary level, you will likely work with the student from kindergarten through to fifth or sixth grade. If you are a middle school teacher, you will likely work with the students from fifth or sixth grade through to eighth grade. If you are a high school teacher, on the other hand, you will probably work with the student from ninth grade through twelfth grade.

After working for several years with the same students, you truly get to know your students and their parents on a very personal level. Not only can this be very satisfying, it also means you have the opportunity to make a significant impact on the future of your students.

Con: Feeling Isolated

A potential downside to working as a special education teacher is that it may result in feelings of isolation. Often, special education teachers feel as if they are “stuck” in their rooms all day and unable to interact with other teachers. In addition, many special education teachers find that there is some tension between themselves and general education teachers. This can lead to further feelings of isolation within the special education classroom.

Pro: Job Security

A definite pro to becoming a special education teacher is the fact that you will enjoy a significant amount of job security. The reality is that there are many different types of special education students who need the assistance of a skilled and qualified teacher to help them learn. Unfortunately, there are not too many people out there who have undergone the training that is necessary to become a special education teacher. Therefore, once you have obtained the proper licensure, you will enjoy a great deal of job security as a special education teacher.

Con: The Job is a Challenge

Regardless of the type of exceptionality you choose to work with, working with special needs students is a far greater challenge than working with general education students. While your classes may be smaller, helping your students overcome their disabilities and learn can be quite difficult. Furthermore, if you are working with students who have physical disabilities or severe cognitive disabilities, you may find yourself needing to change diapers, feed your students or perform simple medical tasks.

Simply put, working as a special education teacher can be a very rewarding experience. Challenging special needs students and helping them achieve their full potential can be extremely satisfying. At the same time, this line of work is quite challenging and you may feel isolated at times. Therefore, you need to be prepared to take on the challenge if you wish to become a special education teacher.