Special education teachers typically do the following: • Assess students skills to determine their needs and to develop teaching plans • Adapt lessons to
meet the needs of students • Develop Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for each student • Plan, organize, and assign activities that are
specific to each students abilities • Teach and mentor students as a class, in small groups, and one - on - one • Implement IEPs, assess students» performance, and track their progress • Update IEPs
throughout the school year to reflect students» progress and
goals • Discuss students» progress with parents, teachers, counselors, and administrators • Supervise and mentor teacher assistants who work with students with disabilities • Prepare and help students transition from grade to grade and after graduation Special education teachers in public schools are required to have at least a bachelor's degree and a state - issued certification or license Most states require a degree specifically in special education.