Education · Teach academic, social, and life skills to preschool-aged students with learning, emotional, or physical disabilities
This profile is intended as career exploration guidance based on federal labor data. Actual job requirements, salaries, and opportunities vary by employer and location.
Entry Salary
$35–42k
First 1–2 years
Peak Salary
$50–59k
10+ years experience
Job Outlook
+1.4% · Slower than average
Projected growth of 1.4% from 2024 to 2034; about 2 openings projected per year.
Time to Start
6+ years
Bachelor's degree typical
Salary data sourced from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2024. Actual compensation varies by location, experience, employer, and specialization.
Teaching Assistant
Special Education Teachers, Preschool
Experienced Special Education Teachers, Preschool
Senior Special Education Teachers, Preschool
Principal / Department Head
You prioritize Relationships
This career is strongly aligned with Relationships — a core work value that shapes how people approach their career decisions.
You're strong in Speaking
Speaking is a top skill for this career, and it plays to what students like you naturally do best.
Good fit for your timeline
This career typically requires a graduate or professional degree, which matches common student preparation goals.
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534 schools offer programs in this career field.
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