Special Education Teacher Certification Options in NY

Making an inclusive learning environment is incredibly important to education. With the effort of inclusivity, it ensures that everyone gets the opportunity to learn regardless of any disability. Special education teachers are extremely important as not every child learns the same way. For any student with a learning disability, having special education classes and teachers provides the support they need in order to excel in school. Becoming a special education teacher is an extremely rewarding career and gives you the opportunity to make a positive impact on a student’s life. In this blog we are going to go over all the special education teacher certification options in NY.

What is a Special Education Teacher?

Special education teachers solely work with students that have a learning disability or special needs. Students with learning disabilities or difficulties require a different teaching approach and learning style. Special education teachers are specially educated on how to adapt education plans to the needs of the students, assess students’ individual needs, work with IEP/504 Plans, and communicate with the families of the students. It’s typical for special education teachers to work alongside paraprofessionals or teachers aides. They are also responsible for curating an inclusive learning environment that is crucial for special education students to achieve success academically. A special education teacher should be empathetic, organized, dedicated, and compassionate.

Types of Special Education Teacher Certification Options in NY

Below is a list of the different types of Special Education Teacher Certification options in NY.

• SWD (Birth-Grade 2) only
  • SWD (Birth-Grade 2) with SWD grade-level extension (grades 3-4)
• SWD (Grades 1 – 6) only
  • SWD (Grades 1 – 6) with SWD grade-level extension (PK-K)
  • SWD (Grades 1 – 6) with SWD grade-level extension (grades 7-8)
• SWD (Grades 5 – 9) only
  • SWD (Grades 5 – 9) Generalist only
  • SWD (Grades 5 – 9) Generalist with SWD grade-level extension (grades 10-12)
  • SWD (Grades 5 – 9) Generalist with a certificate or extension in grades 5-9 and in the subject area to be taught
  • SWD (Grades 5 – 9) Generalist with a limited extension or statement of continued eligibility (SOCE) in grades 7-12 and in the subject area to be taught (only valid in a special class)
  • SWD (Grades 5 – 9) Content Specialist only
  • SWD (Grades 5 – 9) Content Specialist with SWD grade-level extension (Grades 10-12)
  • SWD (Grades 5 – 9) Content Specialist with a limited extension or statement of continued eligibility (SOCE) in grades 7-12 and in the subject area to be taught (only valid in a special class)
• SWD Generalist (Grades 7 – 12) only
  • SWD Generalist (Grades 7 – 12) with SWD grade-level extension (grades 5-6)
  • SWD Generalist (Grades 7 – 12) with a certificate, extension, limited extension, or statement of continued eligibility (SOCE) in grades 7-12 and in the subject area to be taught
• SWD (All grades) or Permanent Special Education only
• SWD (All grades) or Permanent Special Education with a certificate, extension, limited extension, or statement of continued eligibility (SOCE) in grades 7-12 and in the subject area to be taught
• Severe or Multiple Disabilities Annotation

Conclusion

Teaching students with learning disabilities can be challenging but also extremely rewarding. Special education teachers are key for creating an inclusive learning environment for students by providing individualized support to students with various learning needs. If you have a passion for making a lasting difference on students, becoming a special education teacher may be the perfect fit for you. In New York there are a plethora of special education certifications an individual can earn. If you’re looking for a special education teaching job in New York, apply with us online today!