What Is a Special Education Assistant?
A special education instructional assistant, also known as a special education teacher aide, works exclusively with special education students. They tend to the physical needs of disabled students and provide instructional support to both students and teachers. Most schools require special education assistants to have at least a high school diploma or GED as well as on-the-job training; some states may require a certificate or an associate's degree. Additional credentials, such as a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification, and completion of first aid training may be required.
| Required Education | High school diploma or its equivalent; associate's degree may be required in some school districts |
| Additional Requirements | On-the-job training |
| Certification/Licensure | Varies by state; CPR and first aid certification is typically required |
| Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)* | 4% for teacher assistants |
| Median Salary (2019)* | $29,640 annually for teacher assistants |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Special Education Assistant Job Description
Job duties for a special education assistant can include physically assisting students with tasks like eating, using the bathroom, riding the bus and moving from one classroom to another. In addition, special education assistants are often called upon to provide instructional assistance to special education students.
The typical special education assistant will be required to tailor lessons to an individual student's needs or assist students with especially challenging assignments. Special education assistants may also monitor and record a student's academic performance or behavior in an effort to better meet their needs and ensure that they are making good progress.
A special education assistant may also work closely with teachers to prepare lesson plans and adapt materials to fit the needs of their students. They may also clean and organize the classroom and prepare demonstrations or visual aids for specific lessons. Another important aspect of special education assistant jobs is health and safety; special education assistants are expected to be in tune with their students and always vigilant in terms of the potential risks that can arise when participating in activities or in any other situation. For example, a special education assistant should be aware of the triggers and hazards that can pose particular problems for pupils with intellectual or physical disabilities.
Required Skills for Special Education Assistants
If you're wondering how to become a teaching assistant for special needs pupils, a good place to start is by looking at the required skills and traits of a special education teaching aide. Like anyone who works with children, a special education assistant should above all be patient and compassionate and have a keen interest in helping youngsters learn. Strong organizational skills are a must as well as the know-how to manage a classroom of students. Equally important skills and traits for those pursuing special needs teacher assistant jobs are:
- The ability to provide support with physical tasks like eating and getting around
- Good communication and listening skills
- Knowledge of appropriate disciplinary techniques and key principles of childhood development
How to Become a Special Education Assistant
Educational Requirements
All states require special education instructional assistants to have earned a high school diploma or its equivalent. Some states require that instructional assistants have completed some college coursework. Many colleges offer certificate or associate's degree programs specifically for students interested in becoming special education assistants. Specializations are often available for students who want to work with special education students. More rigorous standards are in place for Title I schools, which have a high percentage of low-income students and receive additional federal funding. Under the No Child Left Behind Act, assistants in Title I schools must have at least an associate's degree or pass an exam.
Other Requirements
In most cases, special education instructional assistants also receive on-the-job training. Some states require teacher's assistants, including those who work in special education, to have additional certifications (CPR and first aid) and licensure.
In addition to meeting educational requirements, a special education assistant must be able to meet the physical demands of the job, which include stooping, kneeling and lifting. Most school districts require instructional assistants to pass a background check and take a drug test.
Those looking to advance their career as a special education assistant should also consider undertaking a master's degree program in education, early childhood development or child psychology. Some universities and colleges even offer specific master's degree programs in special education, which can help you stand out in the job market and can lead to a higher salary.
Special Ed Assistant Employment Outlook and Salary
Teacher assistants, a broader category that includes special education instructional assistants, were expected to see a 4% growth in employment during the 2019-2029 decade, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The average annual salary for all teacher assistants was $29,640 as of May 2019, according to the BLS.
Remember, special education instructional assistants assist students with learning or physical disabilities who require extra help in school. Their duties depend on the specific needs of the students they're working with and the tasks at hand. Educational prerequisites and certification requirements for special needs teacher assistant jobs vary, depending on the state and school district.
