Special Education Teacher

GRAND CANYON UNIVERSITY; Boise (ID); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

GRAND CANYON UNIVERSITY is hiring a Special Education Teacher to work with students with exceptionalities using specialized teaching methods and assistive technologies. You will tailor support based on individual capabilities and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

The role requires a Bachelor's degree in special education and a state-issued teaching license. Key responsibilities include lesson adaptation, progress assessment, and communication with parents to discuss IEP improvements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in special education or related field required.
• Must possess a state-issued teaching license.
• Experience in student teaching under a certified educator preferred.

Responsibilities

• Adapt lessons to individual students in class and small groups.
• Assess and evaluate students’ skills while creating IEPs.
• Communicate with parents regarding progress and IEP changes.

Skills

Patience and empathy

Interpersonal communication

Flexibility and adaptability

Knowledge of special education laws and IEPs

Assessment proficiency

Behavior management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in special education or a related field

High-school diploma with relevant courses

Job description

Overview

Special education teachers work with students with exceptionalities, preparing them for success using specialized teaching methods and assistive technologies.

What Does a Special Education Teacher Do?

Special education teachers tailor their support to their students’ capabilities and unique ways of learning, working collaboratively with educators and families to develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

• Adapt lessons to individual students in class, small groups, and one‑on‑one settings.
• Assess and evaluate each student’s skills and abilities while creating their IEP.
• Communicate regularly with parents and/or guardians to discuss progress and IEP changes.
• Mentor and supervise teaching assistants or paraprofessionals who support students.
• Help students develop basic life skills that transfer outside the classroom for greater independence.

Qualifications

• High‑school diploma and completion of prerequisite courses such as psychology, child development or American Sign Language.
• Bachelor’s degree in special education or a related field; specialization in special education preferred.
• Student teaching experience supervised by a certified special educator.
• State‑issued teaching license or certification; requirements vary by state and by public/private school setting.
• Optional board certification (e.g., NASET BCSE) for further professional development.
• Graduate degree (MEd or higher) enables advanced roles or leadership positions.

Key Skills

• Patience and empathy
• Interpersonal communication
• Flexibility and adaptability
• Knowledge of special education laws and IEPs
• Assessment and technological proficiency
• Behavior management

References

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, Aug. 28). Special Education Teachers. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved January 2026.
• The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Special Education Teachers, as of May 2024, retrieved January 2026.
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, Aug. 28). Work Environment. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved January 2026.
• COVID‑19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical.”