This comprehensive guide covers special education teacher requirements, compensation, certification, and resources across 46 US states and Washington DC. Special education teacher shortages affect virtually every state, with critical needs reported in 21 states and moderate shortages in most others. Salary ranges vary dramatically from $43,000 in South Dakota to over $90,000 in California and New York urban districts, while certification requirements show both commonalities and significant state-specific variations.
Key National Trends:
- Critical shortage crisis: 80% of districts report unfilled special education positions
- Federal compliance: No state allows emergency certification for special education due to IDEA requirements
- Salary competition: States increasing compensation to attract qualified teachers
- Alternative pathways: All states offer some form of alternative certification
- Interstate mobility: Growing emphasis on reciprocity agreements
Note: We are actively working to update the content in this list and it currently covers 46 states and Washington DC. Data for Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Virginia, and South Carolina will be added shortly.
NORTHEAST REGION
NEW YORK
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 21,000 statewide (10,000+ in NYC alone)
- Student population: 21% receive special education services
- Shortage status: Critical shortage designated by US Department of Education
- Job growth: 15.33% projected through 2030
Compensation:
- Average salary: $63,837 statewide; $71,723 in NYC
- Starting salary: $68,902-$77,455 (2025 rates)
- Range: $44,646-$119,289
- Benefits: Comprehensive health insurance, commuter benefits, college savings
- Union: United Federation of Teachers (UFT) – 0.85% dues of Step 8B+L20 salary
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s minimum; master’s preferred (84% hold master’s)
- New certification: Students with Disabilities (All Grades) – established September 2022
- Testing: NYSTCE exams, edTPA performance assessment
- Timeline: Initial → Professional certificate pathway
Continuing Education:
- CTLE requirements: 100 hours per 5-year period
- Renewal: 5-year cycles
Key Resources:
- State department: NYSED Office of Teaching Initiatives
- Certification system: TEACH Account
- NYC recruitment: TeachNYC.net
- Special education data: NYS Special Education
Current Initiatives:
- New Students with Disabilities certification pathway
- Teacher residency programs
- Alternative certification expansion
PENNSYLVANIA
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 21,000 employed statewide
- Total districts: 788 districts with 108,756 teachers
- Shortage status: Significant shortage, plan to add thousands by 2025
Compensation:
- Average salary: $61,245-$64,358 statewide
- Starting salary: $40,000-$48,000 (Teach for America participants)
- Philadelphia average: $55,364
- Benefits: Pennsylvania Teachers’ Retirement System, health insurance
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s required; master’s preferred for advancement
- Testing: PECT (Pennsylvania Educator Certification Tests)
- Act 55 of 2024: Eliminates basic skills assessment (effective July 1, 2025)
- Certification levels: Instructional I (initial), Instructional II (permanent)
Key Resources:
- State department: PA Department of Education
- Certification system: TIMS
- Professional development: PaTTAN
- Testing: PECT
Recent Legislation:
- Act 55: Basic skills assessment elimination
- Act 82: Special education certification expansion
NEW JERSEY
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 15,525 statewide
- Student population: 16.1% have IEPs (above national 13% average)
- Federal rating: “Needs Assistance” for special education services
- Districts: 603 districts with 2,620 public schools
Compensation:
- Average salary: $58,136-$68,481 statewide
- Starting salary: $55,401
- Range: $50,992-$111,110
- Union: New Jersey Education Association (NJEA)
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s from regionally accredited institution
- Certificate types: CE (eligibility), CEAS (advanced standing), Standard (permanent)
- Testing: Praxis Core, edTPA, subject-specific tests
- Dual requirement: Special education must combine with general education endorsement
Key Resources:
- State department: NJDOE Certification
- Application system: NJEdCert
- Special education office: Office of Special Education Programs
Recent Changes:
- Basic skills requirement eliminated January 1, 2025
- Five-year interstate reciprocity pilot program
CONNECTICUT
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 5,370 statewide
- Student population: 12.2% receive special education services
- Federal rating: “Meets Requirements” (highest rating)
- Immediate vacancies: 1,300 positions (2023)
Compensation:
- Average salary: $68,746 special education; $81,185 all teachers
- Starting salary: $43,000 (proposed increase to $60,000)
- Range: $40,944-$109,418
- Union: Connecticut Education Association (CEA) – 43,000 members
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s minimum; state-approved preparation program
- Special education coursework: 36 clock hours required for all teachers
- Testing: Praxis Core or alternatives, subject-specific tests
- Student teaching: 6-12 credit hours
Key Resources:
- State department: CT Department of Education
- Certification: Bureau of Certification
- Professional development: SERC
- Special education: Bureau of Special Education
Recent Funding:
- $150 million additional education funding (2023)
- Bills pending to raise starting salary to $60,000
MASSACHUSETTS
Workforce Data:
- Total positions: 900+ in Boston alone; 5,151 statewide
- National ranking: #1 best state to live in (2024), #3 for teacher pay
- Shortage status: Significant shortage across state
Compensation:
- Average salary: $57,647-$66,727 special education; $92,307 all teachers
- Range: $43,690-$76,557
- Benefits: Massachusetts Teachers’ Retirement System, comprehensive health insurance
- Union: Massachusetts Teachers Association (MTA)
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s from accredited institution
- Testing: MTEL (Massachusetts Test for Educator Licensure)
- Alternative tests: Praxis Core accepted
- License types: Initial, Provisional, Professional
Key Resources:
- State department: Massachusetts DESE
- Licensure system: ELAR
- Special education: Special Education Resources
SOUTHEAST REGION
TENNESSEE
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 7,320 serving 1,791 schools
- Shortage status: 31% of positions vacant (2022-23)
- Student population: 13% have IEPs
- Districts: 140 school districts
Compensation:
- Average salary: $50,000-$65,000
- Starting salary: $42,000-$53,000
- Mid-career: $55,000-$65,000
- Experienced: $60,000-$75,000+
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s from accredited institution
- Testing: Praxis Subject Tests, Praxis Core, Tennessee Literacy Success Act compliance
- License types: Practitioner (3-year), Professional (after 3+ years)
Key Resources:
- State department: Tennessee Department of Education
- Certification: Office of Educator Licensing
- Special education: Division of Special Education
Current Funding:
- TISA: Tennessee Investment in Student Achievement Act – $9B formula with $6,860 base plus special needs weights
- 2024-25 increase: $261 million budget increase
KENTUCKY
Workforce Data:
- Shortage status: Special education identified as shortage area 2023-24
- Certification system: Rank-based (III, II, I)
Compensation:
- Average salary: $59,634 (2024)
- Range: $47,014-$78,099
- Starting: $40,000-$50,000
- Rank advancement: Higher education = higher pay
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s + approved preparation program
- Student teaching: 70 days minimum with 200 clock hours
- Testing: Praxis exams specific to special education area
- Renewal: Every 5 years
Key Resources:
- State board: Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board
- State department: Kentucky Department of Education
- Special education: Office of Special Education and Early Learning
ALABAMA
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 600 in secondary special education
- Job growth: 8% expected (2016-2026)
- Shortage status: Critical shortage area
Compensation:
- Average salary: $52,390-$59,264
- Entry level: $35,293-$46,717
- Experienced: $66,651-$94,316
- Certification classes: B, A, AA with corresponding pay scales
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s from accredited institution
- Testing: Alabama Educator Certification Assessment Program (AECAP), Praxis II
- Background check: Required through ASBI and FBI
Key Resources:
- State department: Alabama Department of Education
- Certification: Online application system
- Background checks: AIM Account, Fieldprint contractor
MISSISSIPPI
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 910 statewide
- Student population: 13% with IEPs (matches national average)
- Federal rating: “Meets Requirements” (highest rating)
- Schools: 1,097 public schools across 152 districts
Compensation:
- Average salary: $47,833 (2025)
- Range: $41,955-$55,571
- MAEP levels: A ($41,500) to AAAA ($45,500) starting minimums
- National Board supplement: $6,000 annually
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s from accredited institution
- Testing: ACT 21+ OR Praxis CORE, plus Praxis II PLT and subject tests
- Classes: A (initial), AA (master’s), AAA (specialist), AAAA (doctorate)
Key Resources:
- State department: Mississippi Department of Education
- Certification: Office of Educator Licensure
- Special education: Office of Special Education
Current Funding:
- 2024 formula: New Mississippi Student Funding Formula
- Investment: $2.95 billion including $250M additional
WEST VIRGINIA
Workforce Data:
- Shortage status: Critical shortage area
- Unfilled positions: 1,500 during 2022-23
- Job growth: 3.3% projected (above national average)
Compensation:
- Average salary: $44,500-$55,618
- Range: $28,460-$60,020
- 2020-21 minimums: Bachelor’s $32,057, Master’s $39,266
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s from accredited institution
- Testing: Praxis I, Praxis II content and professional knowledge
- Types: Initial Professional (3-year), Professional (5-year), Permanent (veterans)
Key Resources:
- State department: West Virginia Department of Education
- Certification: Office of Certification (304) 558-7010
- Alternative programs: TeachWV.com
ARKANSAS
Workforce Data:
- Student population: 16% served under IDEA
- Job growth: 9% projected (2020-2030)
- Shortage status: Critical shortage area
Compensation:
- Average salary: $64,514 (2024)
- Minimum salary: $50,000 (increased from $36,000 via LEARNS Act)
- Merit pay: Up to $10,000 bonuses for high-performing teachers
- 2024-25 bonuses: $14.24 million to 4,200 teachers
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s + approved preparation program
- Testing: Praxis Core, Praxis II PLT, subject areas, Foundations of Reading
- License types: Standard (5-year), Provisional (3-year), Lifetime (age 62+)
Key Resources:
- State department: Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education
- LEARNS Act: Information portal
- Certification: Office of Educator Effectiveness and Licensure
Major Reform:
- LEARNS Act (2023): Comprehensive education reform including merit pay system
LOUISIANA
Workforce Data:
- Shortage status: NOT reporting special education shortages (2024-25)
- Certification structure: No general special education – must specialize by population
Compensation:
- Average salary: $52,247-$59,967
- Range: $16,247-$118,862
- Starting: $42,988 (2023 bachelor’s degree)
- Special incentives: $1,500 bonuses in some districts
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s (120 semester hours maximum 2024-25)
- GPA: 2.20 minimum for program entry
- Testing: Praxis I and II exams
- Field experience: 180 hours minimum
Key Resources:
- State department: Louisiana Department of Education
- Certification: TeachLouisiana.net
- Licensing: Office of Educator Licensure
MIDWEST REGION
OHIO
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 18,600+ serving 615 districts
- Student population: 14.8% have IEPs (above national average)
- Federal rating: “Meets Requirements” (highest rating)
- Shortage status: Designated shortage area
Compensation:
- Average salary: $51,577-$58,990
- Starting salary: $38,780-$39,089
- Range: $38,780-$85,050
- Benefits: State Teachers Retirement System (STRSOH)
- Union: Ohio Education Association (91.7% unionization)
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s from regionally-accredited institution
- Testing: Ohio Assessment for Educators (OAE) content and pedagogy
- Field experience: 100 clock hours minimum
- License progression: Resident Educator (2-year) → Professional (5-year) → Senior Professional → Lead Professional
Key Resources:
- State department: Ohio Department of Education
- Certification: Office of Educator Licensure
- Application system: ODE.CORE (Connected Ohio Records for Educators)
- Professional development: Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence
ILLINOIS
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 23,571 (2020-21)
- Student population: 14.5% have disabilities
- Federal rating: “Needs Assistance”
- Shortage status: Significant shortage
Compensation:
- Average salary: $62,500-$65,971
- Starting salary: $45,820-$48,830
- Range: $32,288-$100,920
- Benefits: Illinois Teachers Retirement System
- Union: Illinois Education Association (96.3% unionization – highest in nation)
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s minimum
- Testing: Illinois Licensure Testing System (ILTS), edTPA (score 39+)
- License type: Professional Educator License (5-year)
- Renewal: 120 hours professional development
Key Resources:
- State department: Illinois State Board of Education
- Application system: Educator Licensure Information System (ELIS)
- Tuition program: Illinois Special Education Teacher Tuition Waiver (SETTW)
MICHIGAN
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 13,151 statewide
- Student population: 13.7% have IEPs
- Federal rating: “Needs Assistance”
- Shortage status: Significant shortage
Compensation:
- Average salary: $53,253-$63,700
- Starting salary: $41,369-$43,600
- BLS by level: Secondary $71,930, Middle $70,430, Elementary $67,510
- Union: Michigan Education Association (84.7% unionization)
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s from regionally-accredited institution
- Testing: Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC)
- License types: Provisional → Professional Education Certificate → Master Educator License
- Background check: Required plus First Aid/CPR within first year
Key Resources:
- State department: Michigan Department of Education
- Certification system: Michigan Online Educator Certification System (MOECS)
- Application system: Michigan Education Information System (MEIS)
INDIANA
Workforce Data:
- Total teachers: 61,000+ statewide
- Student population: 15.8% have IEPs (highest nationally)
- Federal rating: “Needs Assistance”
- Shortage status: Significant shortage
Compensation:
- Average salary: $58,139-$62,089
- Starting salary: $36,980-$47,600
- Range: $36,980-$98,823
- Union: Indiana State Teachers Association (65.4% unionization)
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s with 3.0 GPA
- Testing: Core Academic Skills Assessment (CASA), Development Assessment, content exams
- License types: Initial Practitioner (2-year) → Proficient Practitioner (5-year) → Accomplished Practitioner
Key Resources:
- State department: Indiana Department of Education
- Application system: Licensing Verification and Information System (LVIS)
- I-SEAL Program: $2.6 million Indiana Special Education Assisted Licensure program
WISCONSIN
Workforce Data:
- Total teachers: 62,500 in public schools
- Student population: 14% receive special education services
- Shortage status: Significant shortage
- Union: Wisconsin Education Association (48% unionization – affected by 2011 reforms)
Compensation:
- Average salary: $61,871-$64,680
- Starting salary: $37,765
- Range: $37,765-$100,905
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s minimum
- Student teaching: 18 weeks minimum
- Testing: Praxis II, Wisconsin Foundations of Reading Test
- License types: Initial Educator (5-year) → Professional Educator (5-year) → Master Educator (10-year)
Key Resources:
- State department: Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction
- Special education: DPI Special Education Team
- University programs: UW-Madison ranked #1 in education graduate programs
MINNESOTA
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 7,750
- Student population: 15% have disabilities
- Job growth: 7% projected through 2030
- Districts: 339 independent districts plus charter schools
Compensation:
- Average salary: $61,920-$68,081
- Starting salary: $38,360-$49,000
- Range: Up to $90,290
- Minneapolis: $68,081 average
- Union: Education Minnesota (70,000+ members)
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s from accredited preparation program
- License: Academic and Behavioral Strategist (ABS)
- Testing: Minnesota NES Essential Academic Skills, MTLE Pedagogy
- Renewal: Every 5 years
Key Resources:
- State department: Minnesota Department of Education
- Certification: Educator Licensing Division
- University programs: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities (top 10 nationally)
IOWA
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 5,350
- Student population: 13.8% have disabilities
- Job growth: 6.2-6.6% projected through 2032
- Districts: 361 districts, 1,501 public schools
Compensation:
- Average salary: $52,000-$63,000
- Starting salary: $28,909-$44,830
- Master’s bonus: ~$4,000 annually
- Union: Iowa State Education Association
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s from approved program
- Student teaching: 14 weeks required
- Testing: No longer required since 2022 for approved programs
- License types: Initial (2-year) → Standard (5-year) → Master Educator
Key Resources:
- State department: Iowa Department of Education
- Licensing: Iowa Board of Educational Examiners
- Job portal: Teach Iowa
MISSOURI
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 9,000
- Student population: 13.8% have disabilities
- Federal rating: “Meets Requirements” (highest)
- Job growth: 2.6-2.9% projected
Compensation:
- Average salary: ~$52,000
- Benefits: Public School and Education Employee Retirement Systems
- Union: Missouri State Teachers Association, Missouri NEA
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s with preparation program
- Testing: Missouri General Education Assessment (MoGEA), Missouri Educator Gateway Assessments
- GPA: 2.75 overall, 3.0 in professional education
- License types: Initial Professional (4-year) → Career Continuous Professional
Key Resources:
- State department: Missouri Department of Elementary & Secondary Education
- Certification: DESE Educator Certification
- Job boards: MO Teaching Jobs, MOREAP
KANSAS
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 4,000+
- Student population: 14% have disabilities
- Shortage status: Critical shortages in adaptive PE, deaf/hearing impaired
- All areas: Declared critical shortage
Compensation:
- Average salary: $54,049-$91,082
- Starting salary: $38,649-$52,000
- Experienced: Up to $75,586
- Recent improvement: 9.5% increase (2018-2020)
- Union: Kansas National Education Association
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s from KSDE-approved program
- Student teaching: Semester-long placement
- Testing: Praxis Core, Praxis Subject Assessments, PLT
- License types: Initial (2-year) → Professional (5-year) → Accomplished (10-year)
Key Resources:
- State department: Kansas State Department of Education
- University programs: University of Kansas (ranked #2 nationally)
- Job boards: Kansas Teaching Jobs, Kansas Education Employment Board
NEBRASKA
Workforce Data:
- Student population: 15% have disabilities
- Unfilled positions: 137 during 2022-2023
- Job growth: 3.7% projected
- Districts: 253 public districts, 1,142 schools
Compensation:
- Average salary: $49,910-$61,395
- Omaha: $58,448-$61,395
- Starting: $28,909
- Benefits: Nebraska Public Employees Retirement System
- Union: Nebraska State Education Association
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s from state-approved program
- Required coursework: Human Relations Training, Special Education Training
- Testing: Praxis Core, Praxis Subject Assessments
- License types: Initial (5-year) → Standard (5-year) → Professional (10-year)
Key Resources:
- State department: Nebraska Department of Education
- Application system: TEACH account system
- University programs: University of Nebraska-Lincoln
NORTH DAKOTA
Workforce Data:
- Shortage status: Critical shortage in all content areas
- Unfilled positions: 480 during 2022-2023
- Job growth: 8-8.5% projected
- Major cities: Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks, Minot
Compensation:
- Average salary: $54,957-$64,647
- Starting salary: $35,510-$45,880
- Union: North Dakota United
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s from state-approved program
- Student teaching: 10 weeks required
- Testing: Praxis Core, Praxis Subject Assessments, PLT
- License types: Initial (2-year) → Professional (5-year) → Advanced
Key Resources:
- State department: North Dakota Department of Public Instruction
- Licensing: Education Standards and Practices Board
- University programs: University of North Dakota, Minot State University
SOUTH DAKOTA
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 900
- Student population: 14% have disabilities
- Federal rating: “Meets Requirements” (highest)
- Job growth: 5.8-6.3% projected
Compensation:
- Average salary: $43,000-$57,828
- Starting salary: $34,455-$46,880
- Experienced: Up to $92,042
- Target: $48,500 statewide average
- Union: South Dakota Education Association
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s from accredited institution
- Required coursework: South Dakota Indian Studies (grade C+)
- Testing: Praxis exams (140+ score)
- License types: Initial (1 or 5-year) → Renewal (1, 5, or 10-year)
Key Resources:
- State department: South Dakota Department of Education
- Job placement: Associated School Boards Teacher Placement Center
- University programs: University of South Dakota, Black Hills State University
SOUTHWEST REGION
TEXAS
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 20,000 serving 1,265 districts
- Student population: 9% identified (below national 13% average)
- Shortage status: Critical shortage for 2024-2025
Compensation:
- Average salary: $56,922 (2025)
- Starting salary: $50,000-$65,000
- State minimum: $34,390-$57,761
- Houston ISD special: $80,000-$92,000
- Union: Texas State Teachers Association, Texas AFT, ATPE
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s from accredited institution
- Testing: TExES Special Education EC-12 (186), OGET, OPTE
- Certificate validity: 5 years, renewable
- Alternative certification: Available through approved programs
Key Resources:
- State department: Texas Education Agency
- Certification: ECOS (Educator Certification Online System)
- Professional development: 20 Regional Education Service Centers
ARIZONA
Workforce Data:
- Student population: 12% have special needs
- Shortage status: Not reporting shortage for 2024-2025
Compensation:
- Average salary: $62,714 statewide
- Union: Arizona Education Association
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s from accredited institution
- Testing: AEPA/NES Special Education (NT 601)
- Student teaching: 12 weeks minimum in special education
- Certificate validity: 12 years, renewable
- Alternative: Teaching Intern Certificate available
Key Resources:
- State department: Arizona Department of Education
- Application system: ADE Connect
- Certification portal: My Certification Portal
COLORADO
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 4,800
- Student population: 10% have disabilities
- Districts: 179 districts
- Shortage status: Not reporting shortage
Compensation:
- Average salary: $68,647 statewide
- Union: Colorado Education Association
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s from regionally accredited institution
- Testing: Praxis 5903 (elementary math), 5205 (reading), 5355 (special education)
- License types: Initial (3-year) → Professional (renewable)
- Endorsements: Generalist (5-21), Early Childhood, Severe Needs
Key Resources:
- State department: Colorado Department of Education
- Certification: Educator Licensing Office
- Professional development: TEACH Colorado resources
NEW MEXICO
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 2,050+
- Student population: 14% have disabilities
- Districts: 89 districts
- Shortage status: Not reporting shortage
Compensation:
- Average salary: $68,440 statewide
- Recent increase: 17% average (2022)
- Union: NEA-New Mexico
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s minimum
- Testing: Praxis Teaching Reading (5205), Praxis Special Education (5355)
- Student teaching: 14 weeks required
- License types: Level I Provisional (3-year) → Level II Professional (9-year) → Level III (9-year, master’s)
Key Resources:
- State department: New Mexico Public Education Department
- Certification: NMPED Online Licensure Portal
OKLAHOMA
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 3,450
- Student population: 15% have disabilities
- Shortage status: Not reporting shortage
Compensation:
- Average salary: $61,330 statewide
- Recent increase: 10.5% in 2024 (largest nationally)
- Union: Oklahoma Education Association
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s from accredited institution
- Testing: OGET, OSAT, OPTE
- Certificate validity: 5 years, renewable
- Dual requirement: Special education + teaching area certificates
Key Resources:
- State department: Oklahoma Department of Education
- Certification: Single Sign-On system
- Professional development: Regional cooperatives
NEVADA
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 2,630
- Student population: 11% receive services
- Shortage status: Reporting shortage for 2024-2025
Compensation:
- Average salary: $66,930 statewide
- Union: Nevada State Education Association
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s from accredited institution
- Testing: Praxis Core, PLT, Subject Assessment
- License types: Provisional (3-year) → Standard (5-year) → Professional (6-10 year)
- Interim route: 3-year pathway available
Key Resources:
- State department: Nevada Department of Education
- Application system: OPAL (Online Processing for Application)
- Professional development: Regional Professional Development Programs
UTAH
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 2,275
- Student population: 12% have disabilities
- Shortage status: Reporting shortage for 2024-2025
Compensation:
- Average salary: $69,161 statewide (highest in Southwest)
- Starting salary: Nearly $60,000
- Recent increase: 35.1% over 5 years
- Union: Utah Education Association
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s from accredited institution
- Testing: Praxis exams, Foundations of Reading Test
- License types: Associate Educator (1-year) → Professional Educator (renewable)
- Areas: Special Education K-12, Special Education Birth-Age 5
Key Resources:
- State department: Utah State Board of Education
- Application system: USIMS (Utah Schools Information Management System)
WEST COAST REGION
CALIFORNIA
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 24,000+ statewide
- Student population: 740,000 students with disabilities
- Shortage status: Severe shortage – 2 in 3 new teachers underprepared
- Percentage: 13-15% of teacher workforce
Compensation:
- Average salary: $61,205-$90,530
- Starting salary: $52,550
- Experienced: Up to $100,670
- Union: California Teachers Association – 310,000 members
- Union dues: $1,072 annually ($229 local, $656 CTA, $187 NEA)
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s minimum, master’s preferred
- Credential: Education Specialist Instruction Credential (preliminary → clear)
- Testing: Subject matter competency exams
- Timeline: Preliminary valid 5 years
Key Resources:
- State department: California Department of Education
- Certification: California Commission on Teacher Credentialing
- Contact: (916) 445-4613
Current Funding:
- Teacher development: $1+ billion invested (2018-2023)
- Golden State Grants: $20,000 awards (reduced to $10,000 in 2024-25)
- Residency programs: $672 million investment
- Federal impact: $800M+ funding hold affecting programs
WASHINGTON
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 5,500
- Student population: 124,000+ receive services (12%)
- Shortage status: 12th nationally for shortages
- Workforce loss: 2022 marked 37-year high
Compensation:
- Average salary: $57,435-$111,397
- Starting salary: $50,156-$55,045
- Seattle average: $93,450 (61% above national)
- Union: Washington Education Association
- Union dues: $1,060 annually ($425 local, $443 state, $192 NEA)
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s from accredited institution
- Testing: WEST-B (basic skills), WEST-E (content), edTPA
- Certificate types: Residency Teacher (5-year) → Professional
- Background check: Required
Key Resources:
- State department: Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction
- Certification: Professional Educator Standards Board
- Professional development: Washington Staff Development Network
OREGON
Workforce Data:
- Student population: 75,000 K-12 students receive services (13.3%)
- Total served: 85,000+ ages 0-21
- Shortage status: Moderate shortage
Compensation:
- Average salary: $64,873 annually
- Starting salary: $51,142
- Experienced: $84,963-$124,410
- Portland: Higher than rural areas
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s minimum, master’s preferred
- Testing: Civil Rights Exam, ORLEA Special Education (score 220)
- Student teaching: 3-6 months internship
- GPA: 2.5-3.0 minimum for programs
Key Resources:
- State department: Oregon Department of Education
- Certification: Oregon Teacher Standards and Practices Commission
- Professional development: Oregon DATA Project, ReadOregon
ALASKA
Workforce Data:
- Student population: 13.7% have IEPs
- Shortage status: Significant shortage, especially rural
- Districts: 53 districts, 516 schools
Compensation:
- Average salary: $70,227 annually
- Range: $41,822-$111,762
- High school: $77,790 (30% above national)
- Fairbanks: $81,090 (highest)
- Rural incentives: Higher salaries and bonuses
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s from accredited institution
- Testing: Praxis Core, Praxis II content exams
- Required courses: Sexual abuse, domestic violence, suicide prevention, substance abuse
- Certificate types: Initial (3-year) → Professional (5-year) → Master Teaching (10-year)
Key Resources:
- State department: Alaska Department of Education & Early Development
- Certification: Teacher Education and Certification Office (907) 465-2831
- Application system: TEACH-AK
HAWAII
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 1,851
- Student population: 11% have IEPs
- School system: Single statewide district (291 public, 31 charter)
- Shortage status: Moderate shortage
Compensation:
- Average salary: $62,671-$66,890
- State range: $58,000-$80,000
- Special education differential: $10,000 annual bonus
- Hard-to-staff differential: $3,000-$8,000 additional
- Hawaiian immersion: $8,000 differential
- Union: Hawaii State Teachers Association
- Contract increase: 14.5% over 4 years (2023-2027)
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s minimum
- Testing: Praxis Core, Praxis Special Education
- Certificate types: Provisional (3-year) → Standard → Advanced
- Student teaching: Required through SATEP
Key Resources:
- State department: Hawaii Department of Education
- Certification: Hawaii Teacher Standards Board
- Recruitment: TeachInHawaii.org
Recent Improvements:
- Ranking: 6th nationally for starting salary competitiveness
- Bonus continuation: Special education differentials through 2025-2026
REMAINING STATES AND DC
MONTANA
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 842
- Student population: 12% have special needs
- Federal rating: “Needs Assistance”
- Vacancies: 443 teacher positions (2022-2023)
Compensation:
- Average salary: $52,000-$53,000
- Starting salary: $27,274 (significantly below national)
- Benefits: Montana Teachers Retirement System
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s, approved preparation program
- Testing: Praxis II exams
- License types: Class 1 Professional (master’s + 3 years), Class 2 Standard (bachelor’s), Class 5 provisional (3-year)
- Renewal: 60 PDUs every 5 years
Key Resources:
- State department: Montana Office of Public Instruction
- Address: P.O. Box 202501, Helena, MT 59620-2501
- Job portal: Jobs for Teachers Montana
WYOMING
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 900+
- Student population: 15% require services (2022-23)
- Federal rating: “Meets Requirements” (highest)
- Districts: 48 statewide
Compensation:
- Average salary: $60,470
- Entry-level: $43,000-$48,000
- Mid-career: $50,000-$62,000
- Experienced: $81,000+
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s from approved program
- Student teaching: 8 consecutive weeks minimum
- Testing: Praxis II for Elementary and Social Studies only
- License: Standard License (single tier)
- Background check: FBI fingerprint cards required
Key Resources:
- State department: Wyoming Department of Education
- Certification: Wyoming Professional Teaching Standards Board
- Address: 2001 Capitol Avenue, Cheyenne, WY 82002
IDAHO
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 870
- Student population: 12% have special needs
- Federal rating: “Needing Intervention”
- Shortage status: Critical shortage area
Compensation:
- Average salary: $45,000-$65,000
- Entry-level: $40,000-$50,000
- Mid-career: $50,000-$70,000
- Experienced: $70,000+
- Secondary median: $49,550
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s, approved preparation program
- Testing: Praxis II content and performance assessments
- Certificate: Standard Instructional with endorsements
- Renewal: 180 hours PD or 12 credit hours every 5 years
Key Resources:
- State department: Idaho State Department of Education
- Job portal: Idaho Education Employment
- Alternative: American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence
VERMONT
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 1,150+
- Student population: 14.8% have IEPs
- Federal rating: “Needs Assistance”
- Schools: 323 public schools in 291 districts
Compensation:
- Starting salary: $39,196
- Peer review fee: $1,200 for alternative certification
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s, approved preparation program
- Student teaching: 12 weeks minimum (unpaid)
- Testing: Praxis Core ($270 separate/$150 combined), Praxis II (varies)
- License types: Initial Vermont Educator License, temporary options available
Key Resources:
- State department: Vermont Agency of Education
- Certification: Educator Licensure Office
- Support: Vermont-NEA GrowVT-Ed program
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 2,400+ serving 494 public schools
- Student population: 15.3% have IEPs
- Federal rating: “Needs Assistance”
- Districts: 180 school districts
Compensation:
- Average salary: $64,937 (special education)
- Range: $38,678-$103,356
- Most earn: $51,192-$85,047
- General teachers: $61,680 median
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s, approved preparation program
- Testing: Praxis Core OR 50th percentile ACT/SAT/GRE, Praxis Subject Assessment, Foundations of Reading
- License types: Beginning Educator License → Experienced Educator License
- Renewal: 45 CEUs every 3 years
Key Resources:
- State department: New Hampshire Department of Education
- Certification: Bureau of Educator Certification
- Resources: Salary reports on NHDOE website
MAINE
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 2,000 serving 662 public schools
- Student population: 15.6% have IEPs
- Federal rating: “Needs Intervention” (among lowest)
- Districts: 246 school districts
Compensation:
- Average salary: $45,110 (2009-2010, ranked 35th nationally)
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s, approved preparation program
- Testing: Praxis requirements vary by endorsement
- License types: Provisional (2-year), Professional (5-year)
- Processing fee: $100
- Background check: Required
Key Resources:
- State department: Maine Department of Education
- Certification: Certification and Credentialing office
- Union: Maine Education Association (NEA affiliate)
RHODE ISLAND
Workforce Data:
- Total teachers: 10,687 (13:1 student-teacher ratio)
- Student population: 142,949 in 317 public schools
- Shortage areas: Language arts, science, math, special education, art
Compensation:
- Average salary: $66,991 (special education)
- Range: $39,906-$106,624
- Experience progression: 2-4 years $68,033, 5-8 years $74,180, 8+ years $75,717
- Alternative data: $75,350 average with $53,330-$97,330 range
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s, approved preparation program
- Student teaching: 60 hours field experience + 12 weeks student teaching
- Testing: Praxis I, Praxis II content areas
- License types: Initial (3-year), Professional (5-year), Advanced (7-year)
Key Resources:
- State department: Rhode Island Department of Education
- Job portal: SchoolSpring
- Union: Rhode Island Federation of Teachers (10,000 members)
DELAWARE
Workforce Data:
- Total teachers: 9,399 (15:1 student-teacher ratio)
- Student population: 136,293 in 228 K-12 public schools
- Certification concern: 62 special education teachers identified with gaps
Compensation:
- Fee: $100 application fee (reimbursable upon employment)
- Dual requirement: Initial License + Standard Certificate
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s, approved preparation program OR 15 special education credits
- Testing: Praxis II Special Education: Core Knowledge and Applications, PPAT/edTPA
- License types: Initial (4-year, non-renewable), Continuing (5-year, renewable)
- Renewal: 90 clock hours PD (45 job-related)
Key Resources:
- State department: Delaware Department of Education
- System: DEEDS online registration
- University programs: University of Delaware, Delaware State University
MARYLAND
Workforce Data:
- Total special education teachers: 8,500 serving 1,475 public schools
- Student population: 12.1% have IEPs
- Federal rating: “Meets Requirements” (highest)
- Districts: 24 public school districts
Compensation:
- Average salary: $69,000-$81,000 (special education)
- BLS 2023: Secondary $81,280, Middle $77,580, Elementary $74,080
- Indeed average: $89,814
- Starting salary: $51,548 (5th highest nationally)
- Overall average: $79,420 (8th highest nationally)
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s, approved preparation program
- Testing: Praxis I OR passing SAT/ACT/GRE, Praxis II, Special Education Core Knowledge (70%+)
- Certificate types: PEC (5-year), SPC I (5-year), SPC II (5-year, 3 years experience), APC (5-year, master’s)
Key Resources:
- State department: Maryland State Department of Education
- System: TEACH account
- University programs: University of Maryland-College Park (top 11 nationally)
WASHINGTON DC
Workforce Data:
- Unfilled positions: 160 teaching positions (2021-2022)
- Underqualified: 430 teachers working outside certification
Compensation:
- Average salary: $88,000 (elementary to high school)
- Special education: $58,956-$64,022
- Range: $44,682-$78,295
- Performance pay: IMPACTplus system for highly effective teachers
Certification Requirements:
- Degree: Bachelor’s, approved preparation program
- Testing: Praxis Core (Reading 172+, Writing 171+, Math 174+) OR 3.0+ GPA, Praxis II Special Education
- License types: One-Year Provisional, Initial (2-year), Standard (4-year)
- Processing time: 12 weeks
Key Resources:
- State department: Office of the State Superintendent of Education
- System: Educator Credential Information System (ECIS)
- District: DC Public Schools (separate from OSSE)
National Salary Rankings (Average Special Education Teacher Salaries)
Highest Paying States:
- California: $90,530+ (urban districts)
- New York: $71,723 (NYC)
- Utah: $69,161
- New Mexico: $68,440
- Colorado: $68,647
- Connecticut: $68,746
- Hawaii: $66,890 + $10,000 differential
- Nevada: $66,930
- Rhode Island: $66,991
- Washington: $93,450 (Seattle)
Lowest Paying States:
- South Dakota: $43,000-$57,828
- Montana: $52,000-$53,000
- Idaho: $45,000-$65,000
- Maine: $45,110
- West Virginia: $44,500-$55,618
Special Education Teacher Shortages
States Reporting Critical Shortages:
- Severe Crisis: Tennessee (31% vacant), North Dakota (all areas), West Virginia (1,500 unfilled)
- Significant Shortages: New York, California, Washington, Texas, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, Kansas, Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Kentucky, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas, Alaska, Montana, Idaho, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Rhode Island, Delaware, Maryland, Washington DC
States NOT Reporting Shortages:
- Louisiana: Only state not reporting special education shortages
- Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma: Not reporting current shortages
Certification Requirements Comparison
Most Stringent:
- Delaware: Dual licensing requirement (teaching license + certificate)
- California: Most rigorous preparation requirements
- New York: New specialized certification pathway
- Wyoming: Highest federal compliance standards
Most Flexible:
- Louisiana: Shorter program requirements
- Texas: Strong alternative certification options
- Arizona: 12-year certificate validity
- Oklahoma: Multiple alternative pathways
Innovative Compensation Models
Performance-Based Pay:
- Arkansas: Merit pay up to $10,000 (LEARNS Act)
- Hawaii: $10,000 special education differential
- Washington DC: IMPACTplus system
- Mississippi: $6,000 National Board supplement
Shortage Area Incentives:
- Alaska: Rural/remote bonuses
- Hawaii: Hard-to-staff differentials $3,000-$8,000
- Houston ISD: $80,000-$92,000 for special education
- California: Golden State Teacher Grants
Alternative Certification Pathways
Most Comprehensive:
- Texas: Multiple approved programs
- California: Intern programs
- New York: Career changers, Teach for America
- Illinois: SETTW tuition waiver program
Limited Options:
- Alaska: Limited pathways
- Wyoming: Restrictive requirements
- Vermont: Expensive peer review ($1,200)
Continuing Education Requirements
Most Demanding:
- Illinois: 120 hours/5 years
- New York: 100 hours/5 years
- Colorado: 90 contact hours + specialized training
- Rhode Island: Complex PLU system
Other training structures:
- Arizona: 12-year certificate validity
- Wyoming: No specified renewal requirements found
- Some states: 45-60 hours/5 years
Key Recommendations
For Prospective Teachers:
- Highest compensation: California, New York, Utah, Washington (urban)
- Best job availability: Texas, Tennessee, North Dakota, Alaska
- Easiest certification: Louisiana, Arizona, Texas (alternative routes)
- Most support: Illinois (tuition waiver), Hawaii (differentials), Arkansas (merit pay)
Quick Reference State Comparison Tables
Starting Salaries by State
| State | Starting Salary | Special Ed Differential |
| California | $52,550 | Varies by district |
| New York | $68,902-$77,455 | None specified |
| Texas | $50,000-$65,000 | Houston: $80,000-$92,000 |
| Hawaii | $58,000-$80,000 | $10,000 bonus |
| Utah | ~$60,000 | None specified |
| Colorado | Varies by district | None specified |
| Washington | $50,156-$55,045 | None specified |
| Illinois | $45,820-$48,830 | None specified |
| Massachusetts | Varies by district | None specified |
| Connecticut | $43,000 | None specified |
Certification Testing Requirements
| State | Basic Skills | Content | Performance |
| California | Subject competency | ✓ | ✓ |
| New York | NYSTCE | ✓ | edTPA |
| Texas | OGET | TExES | ✓ |
| Illinois | ILTS | ✓ | edTPA |
| Pennsylvania | PECT | ✓ | ✓ |
| Ohio | OAE | ✓ | ✓ |
| Florida | Data not available | ||
| Michigan | MTTC | ✓ | ✓ |
| Washington | WEST-B | WEST-E | edTPA |
| Oregon | Civil Rights | ORLEA | ✓ |
License Renewal Periods
| State | Renewal Period | PD Requirements |
| California | 5 years | Ongoing |
| New York | 5 years | 100 hours |
| Texas | 5 years | CPE required |
| Illinois | 5 years | 120 hours |
| Pennsylvania | Varies | Required |
| Ohio | 5 years | Required |
| Michigan | 5 years | Required |
| Washington | 5 years | 100 hours |
| Arizona | 12 years | Varies |
| Utah | Varies | Required |
This guide represents the most current available data on special education teacher requirements, salaries, and resources across the United States. NASET advises that for the most up-to-date information, you always consult individual state department of education websites and certification boards.
