Special Education Certification Texas requirements are dictated by the Texas Education Agency (TEA). The state organization in Texas in charge of public education is called TEA. The TEA is in charge of establishing educational standards and policies, carrying out educational initiatives, and monitoring school and student performance.
The TEA also grants teaching licenses, manages state and federal education funding, and confers accreditation on schools and districts. The Commissioner of Education, chosen by the Texas Governor and confirmed by the Texas Senate, is in charge of the organization.
Number of Teachers in Texas
According to National Center for Education Statistics, there were about 358,000 public school teachers in Texas as of the 2021–2022 academic year. Those who satisfy the requirements for becoming a teacher in Texas, which include finishing a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field and passing the necessary exams, are issued teaching certificates by the TEA.
Several factors, including retirements, resignations, and changes in enrollment, can cause the number of teachers in Texas and the number of teaching certificates issued by the TEA to change from year to year.
Special Education Certification
Physical, cognitive, emotional, and learning disabilities are just a few of the many disabilities that special education teachers work with within their classes.
Their main objective is to assist these students in receiving the same educational opportunities as their peers who are not disabled. The following are some particular tasks that special education teachers might complete:
- Assessing students’ needs: When determining a student’s needs, special education teachers frequently begin by evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the individual pupil. It could entail giving tests and assessments, watching students in class, and speaking with other teachers, parents, and medical experts.
- Collaborating with other educators: Special education teachers often work closely with general education teachers, school counselors, and other educators to ensure that their students have access to a well-rounded education.
- Developing individualized education plans (IEPs): Special education teachers collaborate with teams of educators to build IEPs (and many times 504 Plans), which describe the objectives and accommodations each student needs to achieve academic success based on their assessments of the needs of the students.
- Providing direct instruction: Special education teachers may work with students one-on-one or in small groups to provide explicit instruction in various subjects, including reading, writing, math, and social studies. They may use multiple teaching methods and technologies to meet the needs of their students.
- Monitoring student progress: Special education teachers regularly assess their student’s progress and adjust their instruction as needed. They may also communicate with parents and other professionals about students’ progress and recommend additional support or accommodations.
Texas Teacher Certification
To become a special education teacher in Texas, you will need to complete the following steps:
- Earn a bachelor’s degree in special education or a related field. The Texas Education Agency (TEA) should approve your degree program and include a student teaching experience.
- Complete the required exams. In Texas, special education teachers must pass the Texas Examinations of Educator Standards (TExES) Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities (PPR) exam and the TExES Special Education EC-12 exam.
- Apply for a teaching certificate. After you have completed your degree and passed the required exams, you can apply for a teaching certificate through the TEA. You will need to submit an application, transcripts, and other supporting documents.
- Meet any additional requirements. Depending on the grade level and subject area you wish to teach, you may need to meet additional requirements, such as completing additional coursework or obtaining a bilingual education endorsement.
It’s important to note that the requirements for how to get special education certification in Texas may change over time. It’s a good idea to check with the TEA to ensure you have the most up-to-date information on the certification process.
A Teacher Needs Student Teaching
Student teaching is a supervised teaching experience typically required in a teacher preparation program. Aspiring teachers work with a mentor teacher in a real classroom during student teaching, observing and assisting with lessons and other classroom activities. They may also be responsible for planning and teaching some classes independently.
Student teaching allows aspiring teachers to apply what they have learned in their teacher preparation program in a real-world setting while receiving guidance and feedback from an experienced teacher. It is typically considered an essential part of becoming a teacher, as it gives aspiring teachers a chance to gain hands-on experience and develop their skills in a supportive environment.
In most cases, student teaching takes place during the final semester of a teacher preparation program and may last for an entire semester or longer. Aspiring teachers are usually required to complete a certain number of hours of student teaching to be eligible for certification. In some states, student teaching is also a requirement for obtaining a teaching license.
The Texas Examinations of Educator Standards (TExES) Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities (PPR)
The Texas Examinations of Educator Standards (TExES) Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities (PPR) exam is a standardized test for individuals seeking a teaching certificate in Texas. The exam (list of Texas teacher certification tests) is designed to assess the knowledge and skills of aspiring teachers in the areas of pedagogy (the art and science of teaching) and professional responsibilities.
The TExES PPR exam consists of multiple-choice questions and may include short answer, essay, or case study questions. It covers various topics, including classroom management, instructional planning, assessment and evaluation, and educational ethical and legal issues.
Texas Education Agency administers the exam (TEA) administers the exam. An individual typically takes it after they have completed a teacher preparation program and is ready to apply for a teaching certificate.
TX Special Ed Domain
Passing the TExES PPR exam is one of the requirements for becoming a certified teacher in Texas. Aspiring teachers must also pass the TExES Special Education EC-12 exam to obtain Special Education Certification in Texas. It’s important to note that the requirements for becoming a teacher in Texas may change over time, so it’s a good idea to check with the TEA for the most up-to-date information on the certification process.
Special Education Teacher and 504 Plans
Special education teachers are responsible for implementing 504 plans for students with disabilities in Texas. 504 plan forms are legal documents that outline the modifications and accommodations necessary for a student with a disability to have equal access to education.
The initial step in implementing a 504 plan is to ensure that the plan is developed properly and addresses the student’s unique needs. Typically, this entails collaborating with the student’s parents or guardians and other relevant school personnel to assess the student’s needs and develop a plan to meet those needs.
Once the 504 plan is in place, it is the responsibility of the special education teacher to implement the modifications and accommodations outlined in the plan. It may entail modifying the student’s learning environment, providing additional support or resources, or adapting instructional materials or procedures to meet their needs better.
Regular communication with the student’s parents or guardians and other school staff is essential for special education teachers to ensure that the 504 plan is being implemented effectively and that the student is making progress. In addition, special education teachers may need to periodically review and revise the 504 plan to ensure that it continues to meet the student’s needs.
Do Special Ed Teachers Get Paid More in Texas?
Texas special education teachers typically earn the same salary as other teachers. A special education teacher’s pay may vary depending on several variables, such as their level of education and experience, the school district where they work, and the particular duties associated with their position.
How Long Does It Take To Become a Special Education Teacher in Texas?
To become a special education teacher in Texas, individuals typically need to hold a bachelor’s degree, complete an approved teacher preparation program, and pass required exams. This process usually takes four to five years.
Still, the exact length of time may vary depending on the individual’s academic and career goals and the specific requirements of their chosen teacher preparation program. Special education teachers in Texas must also complete ongoing professional development to maintain their certification.
About Us:
Jennifer Hanson is a dedicated and seasoned writer specializing in the field of special education. With a passion for advocating for the rights and needs of children with diverse learning abilities, Jennifer uses her pen to educate, inspire, and empower both educators and parents alike.