Resume Example
Special Education Teacher Resume Example
Show IEP execution, behavior support, and measurable progress. This sample focuses on compliance and student outcomes.
Classic Professional
Traditional single-column ATS-optimized layout. Best for conservative industries.
Keywords
Sample bullets
- Managed 18 IEPs with 100% compliance and on-time annual reviews.
- Reduced classroom disruptions by 30% through individualized behavior plans.
- Co-taught inclusion classes that increased math proficiency by 15%.
Soft skills
- Patience
- Collaboration
- Advocacy
Certifications
- State special education license
- BCBA
- Autism specialist
- Dyslexia specialist
Why this works
- Shows IEP compliance and measurable student progress.
- Highlights behavior support and classroom collaboration.
- Demonstrates communication with families and specialists.
Step-by-Step Guide
How to Write a Special Education Teacher Resume
Highlight Special Education Expertise
Feature experience with specific disability categories, age groups, and instructional settings (inclusion, resource, self-contained). Include special education certification and endorsements.
Showcase IEP Development Skills
Demonstrate experience writing measurable IEP goals, conducting assessments, and leading IEP meetings. Include collaboration with related service providers.
Quantify Student Progress
Use metrics like IEP goal attainment rates, academic growth measures, and behavior improvement data. Show evidence of student outcomes.
Include Behavior Management Expertise
Highlight experience with FBAs, behavior intervention plans, and positive behavior supports. Include crisis intervention training and de-escalation skills.
Demonstrate Collaboration and Advocacy
Include experience working with families, general education teachers, and specialists. Show ability to advocate for student needs and services.
Summary Examples
Good vs. Bad Resume Summaries
“Special Education Teacher with 7 years serving students with autism and learning disabilities in K-5 setting. 90% IEP goal attainment rate with data-driven instruction. Implemented structured literacy program reducing reading gaps by 1.5 grade levels. CPI and ABA trained.”
Shows disability focus, goal attainment rate, reading intervention success, and relevant training.
“Board-certified special educator with 10 years in inclusion and resource settings. Managed caseload of 25+ students across grades 6-8. Reduced behavioral referrals by 60% through PBIS implementation. Led district transition planning committee.”
Certification, caseload size, behavior improvement, and leadership role.
“Special education teacher with experience working with students with disabilities. Patient and caring educator.”
Too vague, no metrics, focuses on personality rather than expertise.
“Teacher seeking special education position. Completed student teaching in self-contained classroom.”
No professional experience, student teaching is expected baseline.
Action Verbs
Power Words for Special Education Teacher Resumes
Common Mistakes
What to Avoid
- ✗Not specifying disability categories and age groups
- ✗Missing IEP goal attainment and progress data
- ✗Omitting specific certifications and endorsements
- ✗Being vague about caseload size and setting
- ✗Not showing behavior intervention expertise
- ✗Missing assessment and data collection experience
Salary ranges
| Level | US | EU | Canada |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | USD 39,000-50,000 | EUR 26,900-34,500 | CAD 45,200-57,900 |
| Mid | USD 55,000-70,000 | EUR 37,900-48,200 | CAD 63,700-81,200 |
| Senior | USD 70,000-85,000 | EUR 48,200-58,600 | CAD 81,200-98,600 |
Market themes
- Nationwide shortage with sign-on bonuses and loan forgiveness options
US hot markets
- Washington
- District of Columbia
- New York
- Maryland
- Alaska
EU hot markets
- London
- Dublin
- Amsterdam
Canada hot markets
- Toronto
- Vancouver
FAQ
Common questions about this role
What should special education resumes emphasize?
IEP execution, progress monitoring, and behavior support outcomes.
Which certifications matter?
State special education credential and any behavior or autism endorsements.
Related Roles
More Education Examples
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