Pro tips when substitute teaching for a special education teacher.

One of the perks of being a substitute teacher is that you have the flexibility to accept assignments in the grade levels you enjoy—and that fit into your schedule. Unfortunately, many special education jobs often go unfilled every day.  

There are many reasons for this, and one of them is misinformation. Some substitute teachers think they must be certified in special education to substitute for a special education teacher. Others mistakenly think they will be alone working with students with special needs who need significant physical support.  

Who are students with special needs? 

The truth is that this country needs more people to work with a growing population of students with learning disabilities. About one in every six children between three and 17 years old goes to school with a physical, mental, learning, or behavioral disability, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Most students in Special Education have a learning disability (like dyslexia), speech impairment, or health-related impairment.  

Many of these students need: 

• help learning math or reading. 

• extra time taking tests. 

• things repeated multiple times for understanding. 

• instructions read to them. 

• support due to anxiety. 

• support to stay focused on the lesson. 

• support to make social connections. 

• a break to calm down. 

• English translation services. 

Since you’re reading this article, you’re already motivated to learn about this important role. It’s normal to be nervous or cautious. So, let’s help you to become comfortable and competent to accept a substitute teacher for a special education assignment. 

Understand basic special education terminology. 

First, let’s review some of the basic terms used in special education. 

Individualized Education Plans (IEPs): These are documents that spell out the education plan for a student with special needs. They detail the accommodations, modifications, and services the student will get, along with any specific instructional needs. 

504 Plans: These list the accommodations and support services for students with disabilities who don’t need individualized instruction. 

Paraeducators or paraprofessionals: These are adults who work alongside teachers to help students with special needs. 

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA): This is a federal law that aims to improve the education of students with disabilities. It details their rights and discusses the services to which they’re entitled. 

Special education environments. 

Special Education consists of supports and services, and is not a classroom, label, or concept. Schools have MANY different educational settings where students can receive supports and services. The most frequent are:  

• Resource room: Students visit the resource room for instruction in specific subject areas. For example, a student may visit the resource room for an hour of math instruction. They’d spend the rest of the day in the regular classroom.  

• Self-contained classroom: All students in this type of class have special needs. The special education teacher provides most of their instruction, though they may leave the class to participate in specials like art or music with their general education peers. 

• Inclusion Classroom: The student spends the day with a general education and receives supports and services within that classroom. 

Training to feel confident in special education. 

Special education is rewarding work. Teachers often work in smaller classes, which allows more individual time with students. We provide training and support resources so that our substitute teachers feel confident to work in these environments.  

Before our substitute teachers are hired at Kelly Education, they must complete a module that includes the basics of understanding special education. Once hired, they’re also encouraged to improve their skills with optional professional development modules. For example: 

• Best practice for working with students with autism 

• Best practice for working with students with intellectual or learning disabilities 

• Best practices for working with students with behavior intervention plans  

We believe students with special needs should receive a quality education. So, we also provide coaching via live webinar sessions with our national expert in special education. 

Don’t expect a boring day. 

Working in special education can be different than a general education classroom. You might work with students one-on-one or in small groups for short periods, then teach whole-class lessons in a general ed setting. 

Also, remember that you are part of a special education team. You’ll often work collaboratively with other professionals and paraeducators. These professionals are a wealth of information and support. 

What qualities and skills are needed to work in a special education? 

You can work with students with special needs if you meet the basic requirements for substitute teaching. However, there are capabilities that will help you excel in working with students with special needs. Let’s look at a few: 

A belief that everyone can learn. Your students will have disabilities and special learning needs. You must believe that they’re capable of learning. 

Flexible. The resource room or self-contained classroom is a busy place. Each student has their own challenges and learning goals. With so much going on, you’ll need to stay alert. The unexpected can occur, and you may need to change plans quickly. 

Patient and calm. Students with special needs often take more time to complete their assignments. You may need to provide more support as they work. They may behave or communicate differently than their general education peers. Being understanding and patient can help make their day positive. 

Good communicator. You won’t be alone in the classroom. Since you’ll be working closely with a team of paraprofessionals and other support staff, your communication skills matter. Be respectful and transparent with your communication. 

Creative. Your students’ needs and abilities vary greatly. You’ll need to use different techniques with each student. Be open to learning and willing to ask questions to ensure everyone has the support they need.  

How to prepare for a substitute teaching job in special education. 

Being mentally and physically prepared is crucial for a successful experience as a special education substitute teacher. Here are some tips specific for a resource room assignment or self-contained classroom: 

• Arrive early. Use this extra time to review the notes left by the teacher, read behavior plans, and become familiar with the specific needs of the students in your class. Safety comes first, so note any allergies, mobility struggles, or other medical needs. 

• Keep a class schedule nearby. Your students may be coming and going throughout the day, so you’ll want to stay on track. Students with special needs typically thrive with familiar routines, so try to keep the day as normal as possible. 

• Introduce yourself. Take a few moments at the beginning of class to introduce yourself. Some students may not like change, so a friendly greeting can help them feel more comfortable. Let them know when their regular teacher will be back. 

If the teacher you’re substituting for doesn’t leave a lesson plan, here are some inclusive backup activities: 

• Gentle stretches: Doing toe touches or standing on tiptoes can help the class calm down and get a little movement into the day. Be mindful of any physical limitations your students may have. 

• Stay flexible. Sometimes, your day won’t go as planned. Something may come up, so it’s important to be mentally prepared for that. Be ready to adjust your plans as unexpected challenges arise. 

• Provide positive reinforcement. Students benefit from positive reinforcement. It can help boost their confidence and motivate them to continue working hard. Try to say more positive things than negative and give specific praise when possible. 

• Have fun. Despite the challenges, working in a special education classroom is rewarding. Take time to connect with your students and celebrate small victories. 

Become a substitute teacher with Kelly Education. 

Being a substitute teacher in special education, like any role, is both challenging and rewarding. The tips and strategies above can help you feel more confident. Do it with enthusiasm, and you’ll be a positive influence on the students. 

Want more substitute teacher job tips? From substitute teacher dress codes to what to bring on your first day and how to introduce yourself to the class, Kelly Education shares everything you need to know about substitute teaching. Check out all our career advice so you can confidently lead your class. 

Interested in becoming a substitute teacher? Fill out our brief interest form and one of our recruiters will contact you to answer your questions and share more about opportunities to become a sub teacher with one of our school district partners. 

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