Why this resume works
- Quantifies accomplishments: By integrating metrics like a 25% annual improvement in student outcomes, the applicant’s accomplishments reflect a tangible impact in educational settings.
- Highlights industry-specific skills: Skills in individualized education programs and behavioral management are seamlessly woven in, showcasing the applicant’s expertise tailored for special education roles.
- Uses action-oriented language: Using action verbs such as “collaborated,” “improved,” and “organized” conveys an active role in achieving results.
More Special Education Resume Examples
Browse these special education resume examples to highlight your teaching skills, classroom management, and student engagement strategies. Use these samples as a guide to craft a resume that effectively showcases your expertise to potential employers.
Entry-level special education resume
Why this resume works
- Centers on academic background: The applicant’s advanced degrees and focus areas, such as special education, showcase a strong foundation in educational theories essential for early-career success.
- Effective use of keywords: Strategic inclusion of keywords like “inclusive classroom practices” improves the resume’s chances with applicant tracking systems (ATS).
- Shows digital literacy: Highlighting skill in assistive technology integration reflects digital literacy important for modern roles.
Mid-level special education resume
Why this resume works
- Points to measurable outcomes: By developing over 20 tailored education plans and increasing student engagement by 30%, the applicant shows a tangible impact on educational outcomes through measurable achievements.
- Demonstrates language abilities: With language skills in Spanish, French, and German, the applicant supports cross-cultural communication, improving their ability to connect with diverse communities.
- Displays technical expertise: Certification as a special education teacher shows the applicant’s technical expertise in inclusive education, ensuring they possess the specialized skills important for effective classroom management.
Experienced special education resume
Why this resume works
- Lists relevant certifications: Listing certifications like Certified Special Education Teacher and Reading Specialist on their resume reinforces expertise and a commitment to ongoing learning.
- Focuses on work history: Using a chronological resume format effectively highlights extensive career experience, emphasizing the applicant’s progression in special education roles over time.
- Showcases impressive accomplishments: Achievements such as introducing a STEM program for special needs students highlight senior-level performance.
Special Education Resume Template (Text Version)
Emily Miller
Los Angeles, CA 90018
(555)555-5555
Emily.Miller@example.com
Professional Summary
Dedicated Special Education Specialist with 9 years enhancing student potential. Proven success in IEP development and inclusive strategies. Expert in adaptive technologies and curriculum innovation.
Skills
- Individualized Education Programs
- Behavioral Management
- Differentiated Instruction
- Collaborative Teaching
- Assistive Technologies
- Curriculum Development
- Classroom Management
- Data-Driven Instruction
Certifications
- Certified Special Education Teacher – National Board for Professional Teaching Standards
- Behavioral Intervention Certification – International Behavior Analysis Organization
Education
Master of Education Special Education
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Illinois
May 2011
Bachelor of Science Education
Illinois State University Normal, Illinois
May 2009
Work History
Special Education Specialist
Inspire Learning Center – Los Angeles, CA
May 2020 – July 2025
- Collaborated with 15 educators for tailored IEPs
- Improved student outcomes by 25% annually
- Organized engaging learning events monthly
Inclusive Education Facilitator
Bright Futures Academy – Los Angeles, CA
January 2015 – April 2020
- Introduced adaptive tech, enhancing access by 30%
- Trained 50 staff on inclusive practices yearly
- Reduced behavioral issues by 20% in two years
Education Support Coordinator
Harmony School District – Lakeside, CA
January 2012 – December 2014
- Managed resources for 120 diverse students
- Facilitated 10 workshops per semester
- Implemented new curriculum with 80% uptake
Languages
- Spanish – Beginner (A1)
- French – Intermediate (B1)
- American Sign Language – Beginner (A1)
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Advice for Writing Your Special Education Resume
Learn how to write a resume tailored for a special education role, and find out how to highlight your passion for supporting diverse learners and your unique teaching strategies.
Dive into tips that help you showcase the experiences and skills that make you stand out in this rewarding field.
Highlight relevant certifications and training
Certifications and specialized training are important for special education professionals as they ensure educators have the skills and knowledge needed to support students with diverse learning needs.
These credentials show that a teacher can use effective strategies, manage classroom challenges, and create inclusive learning environments. Training in specific areas like behavior management or assistive technology helps teachers stay updated on the best practices.
Some commonly required or sought-after credentials for special education teachers include:
- State Teaching License (K-12)
- National Board Certification (NBPTS)
- TESOL/TEFL Certification
- Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential
- Special Education Certification
Having these credentials highlights your commitment to professional growth and the ability to meet student needs effectively. They also make you stand out from others in the field, showing that you’re prepared for various educational challenges. Add a “Certifications & Training” section after your education section or skills section to improve their visibility.
Example of a certifications & training section
Certified Special Education Teacher
Issued by: Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)
Autism Spectrum Disorder Endorsement
Issued by: International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES)
Behavioral Intervention Certification
Issued by: Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB)
Inclusive Classroom Training
Issued by: National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET)
Assistive Technology Practitioner Certificate
Issued by: Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA)
Struggling to make your resume stand out? Check out our professional resume examples for ideas on how to showcase your talents and land the job you want.
List your most relevant skills
In a special education role, it’s important to balance technical and soft skills.
Technical skills might include using educational software or creating lesson plans tailored to different needs. Soft skills like patience, empathy, and communication are just as important because they help build strong relationships with students and their families.
Including a dedicated skills section on your resume can make it easy for hiring managers to see what you bring to the table. Think about highlighting software skills related to teaching, such as experience with tools that aid learning for students with special needs. Artistic abilities can also be helpful in engaging students through creative activities.
When you describe your work experience, try to weave these skills into your bullet points. For example, mention how you used specific software to develop individualized education programs or how your creativity helped make lessons more engaging. This approach shows how you apply your skills in real-life situations, making them more meaningful and memorable to employers.
To highlight your skills and experience in special education, choose a resume format that emphasizes teaching strategies, adaptability, and communication abilities prominently.
Write a strong professional summary
A professional summary serves as an introduction to hiring managers, giving them a snapshot of your qualifications right at the start. When crafting your resume, you can choose between writing a summary or a resume objective to set the tone for your application.
A professional summary is typically three to four sentences that showcase your experience, skills, and achievements. It is best suited for experienced applicants who want to highlight their professional identity and value quickly and effectively. This section should reflect what you have accomplished in your career and how those achievements make you a strong fit for the special education role.
On the other hand, resume objectives state career goals and are ideal for entry-level job seekers, career changers, or those with employment gaps. While summaries focus on past accomplishments, objectives emphasize what you aim to contribute in a new role within special education.
Next, let’s look at examples of both summaries and objectives tailored to different experience levels so you can see how this approach works across various contexts.
Special education resume summary examples
Entry-level
Recent graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Special Education, skilled in creating inclusive lesson plans and supporting diverse learning needs. Certified in CPR and First Aid, with experience gained through student teaching roles. Committed to fostering an engaging and supportive educational environment for all students.
Mid-career
Special education teacher with over seven years of experience in developing individualized education programs (IEPs) and adapting curriculum for students with learning disabilities and behavioral challenges. Strong background in collaborating with parents, teachers, and support staff to promote student success. Recognized for innovative teaching strategies that improve student engagement.
Experienced
Veteran special education teacher specializing in autism spectrum disorders and emotional disturbances, holding a master’s degree in special education. Proven track record of leading teams to develop school-wide initiatives that improve accessibility and learning outcomes. Passionate about mentoring new teachers and advocating for inclusive educational practices.
Special education resume objective examples
Recent graduate
Dedicated and empathetic recent graduate with a Bachelor of Science in special education looking to begin a career as a special education teacher. Committed to creating inclusive classroom environments that support diverse learning needs and improve student success through innovative instructional strategies.
Career changer
Passionate individual transitioning from corporate training into special education, bringing strong communication skills and experience in customized learning plans. Eager to contribute by fostering positive relationships with students and helping them achieve their educational goals within supportive school settings.
Entry-level applicant
Aspiring special education professional with hands-on experience gained through internships and volunteer work in inclusive classrooms. Seeking an entry-level teaching role to use knowledge of individualized education programs (IEPs) and behavioral intervention techniques to support students’ academic and social development.
You can use our Resume Builder to create your special education teacher resume. It helps organize your skills and experiences, making it easier for employers to see your strengths.
Showcase your accomplishments and publications
Including a publications section on your resume can make you stand out, especially for a special education role. This part shows that you’re not just experienced, but also actively contributing to the field.
Listing peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, and conference papers can highlight your expertise and dedication. Make sure to present these in a structured format with details like journal name, volume, issue, and year using a professional style guide such as APA or MLA.
Highlight any major awards, grants, or fellowships you’ve received. These achievements show others see the value in your work too. They can boost your credibility as someone who’s making an impact in special education. If you have online research profiles like Google Scholar or ResearchGate, add links to them. This makes it easy for employers to find more about your work and publications.
By including these accomplishments and adhering to a clear format, you demonstrate organization and professionalism. Tailoring this section well can help convey how much you’ve contributed to special education through research and thought leadership.
Example of publications section
Peer-Reviewed Journal Articles
- Kauffman, J. M. (2016). Special education for a few: A history of policy, practice, and scholarship. Journal of Learning Disabilities, 49(1), 3-17. https://doi.org/10.1177/0022219415609341
- Kauffman, J. M., Waldron, N. L., & Redd, L. (2014). A case study of a school’s journey to becoming a fully inclusive school. Journal of Special Education, 48(5), 263-277. https://doi.org/10.1177/0022466912461940
Pick a resume template that’s clear and simple, with readable fonts and sections. Avoid excessive colors or fancy designs to help employers quickly spot your skills and experience.
FAQ
Do I need to include a cover letter with my special education resume?
Yes, including a cover letter with your special education resume can make a strong impression and increase your chances of landing an interview.
A cover letter lets you highlight your passion for working with students with diverse needs and emphasize specific skills or experiences that align with the school’s mission or programs.
For instance, if the district has an inclusion-based approach or uses certain intervention techniques, you can explain how your experience aligns with those methods.
You might also use the space to explain any gaps in your work history or why you’re particularly drawn to this role or institution.
Using a tool like our Cover Letter Generator can help streamline this process.
Consider reviewing cover letter examples to ensure yours effectively communicates your value while remaining tailored to the position.
How long should a special education resume be?
For a special education teacher, a one-page resume is usually enough to showcase key qualifications like certifications, teaching experience, and skills in adapting curricula for diverse student needs.
If you have extensive experience or additional qualifications such as advanced degrees or major contributions to inclusive education programs, opting for a two-page resume can be suitable. Just make sure every detail supports your ability to improve the learning environment for students with special needs.
Check out our guide on how long a resume should be for tips on finding the ideal length for your career stage.
How do you write a special education resume with no experience?
If you’re applying for a special education role and have no direct experience, emphasize your education, related skills, and any volunteer or internship experiences that show your enthusiasm and preparedness. Check out these tips to create your resume with no experience.
- Emphasize your education: Start with your degree in special education or a related field. Include relevant coursework or projects that demonstrate your understanding of special education principles.
- Highlight transferable skills: Skills like communication, patience, adaptability, and organization are important in this field. If you’ve developed these through other jobs or volunteer work, be sure to emphasize them.
- Include any practical experience: Even if it’s not paid work, list internships, student teaching experiences, or volunteer positions where you worked with children with disabilities. Detail responsibilities such as creating lesson plans or assisting in individualized education programs (IEPs).
- Showcase certifications and training: Mention any relevant certifications like CPR/First Aid or workshops on special needs education to show additional preparedness.
Consider reaching out to professionals in the field for advice and looking at job descriptions to tailor your resume effectively.
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Toni is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and member of the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches. She is committed to helping job seekers navigate the job market and succeed in their careers.
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