As of 2019, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics states that there were 1,800 special education teachers employed in the state. If you'd like to join this group of individuals, check out the step-by-step list below.
Requirements for Special Education Teachers in Vermont
| Average Salary for Special Education Teachers Vermont (2019)* | $58,920 (Preschool) $63,120 (Elementary School) $65,100 (Middle School) $63,570 (High School) |
| Required Degree | Bachelor's Degree |
| Required Field | Special Education |
| Testing Requirements | *Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators exams |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Step 1: Complete Your Education
A special education program would be a good choice for becoming a special education teacher. These programs will include courses in student development, early intervention, inclusive pedagogy, behavioral and learning characteristics of special needs students, assessment of special education, classroom management for special education, and program development. According to the Vermont Agency of Education (AOE), you should have at least 21 credits in special education courses. You may also study the use of technology and aids in the classroom for teaching. You can be sure that you'll need to complete at least one student teaching practicum in a classroom. The AOE requires at least 60 hours in a special education classroom. Finally, you must have a recommendation in your school transcript that says you should be certified in special education.
Step 2: Pass Required Exam
Every teacher in Vermont must take the Core Academic Skills for Educators exams. This is a series of three subtests that look at math, reading, and writing. While these exams can be taken apart, taking the combined version could be easier. In Vermont, the tests are scored separately, and each is set up a bit differently. The math section includes 56 questions that must be completed in 85 minutes. To pass, you must complete the exam with a score of 150 or higher. For the writing subtest, you'll have 40 multiple-choice questions and two essays to complete in 100 minutes. You must pass with a score of 162. Similar to the math test, the reading test has 56 multiple-choice questions that must be completed in 85 minutes. To pass, you must score over 156.
Step 3: Background Check
Vermont asks that all teachers working with students have a background check. To do this, you'll need to go to an identification center to have your fingerprints taken. These are typically done digitally, though some places may still use the ink and paper method. You'll pay a $12 fee along with your application fees for the fingerprinting. However, depending on the location you select, there could be additional fees. Finally, the fingerprints will be run through the system for a criminal background check by the Vermont Crime Information Center (VCIC). Within 6-12 weeks, the background check will be sent over to the AOE.
Vermont Special Education Teacher Certification Resources
Special education teachers may require additional testing depending on the grade levels you want to teach. If that is the case, we've compiled a few resource links for you to study from.
- Prepare for the Praxis Exam
- Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators - Combined Test (5751): Study Guide & Test Prep
