Every Student Deserves Someone Special

SomeoneSpecialForStudents.com

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Be the teacher

every student, with & without disabilities, deserves.

Every student needs a champion — someone who believes in them, treats them as equal and helps them accomplish what others think is impossible. It’s a profession that takes a special someone. Could that someone be you?

Every student needs a champion — someone who believes in them, treats them as equal and helps them accomplish what others think is impossible. It’s a profession that takes a special someone.
Could that someone be you?

Who,

should become a Special Ed (SPED) teacher?

Meet a collective of special education teachers from across the state who share about how they got into the profession and what they love about teaching special education! If you're curious about the types of characteristics and motivations that are often found by those interested in this profession, check out a summary of some recent local research findings.

What,

is special education? What does it look like in schools?

Learn more about special education law and eligibility.

Learn more about the various disability and eligibility categories in Hawai‘i. Students from the Spring 2023 Introduction to Special Education course developed "Disability Toolkits" to share what they learned about the different disabilities and IDEA categories.

Learn more about different types of placements special education teachers may teach in.

Student cooking food

Where —

What is it like teaching in Hawai‘i?

Hawai‘i is a unique state, with its rich and diverse culture, beautiful landscapes, and focus on community and family. Learn more about some of the unique features of the state that makes it even more special.

Watch this video to hear the experiences of special education teachers who moved to Hawai‘i to teach and share tips for others who may be considering making the move!

When,

should I start? How can I get experience?

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There are many ways to get involved or find employment in working with individuals with disabilities:

  • Volunteer with a local organization.
  • Join the Hawaii-CEC Community unit.
  • Work in a non-teaching position, such as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), Educational Assistant, Part-time Teacher, or Substitute.
  • Work in a teaching position as an emergency-hire teacher if you already have a bachelor's degree and pursue one of our licensure programs.

Why,

is special education so special? Why is it important to have good special education teachers?

How,

do I get started? How do I pursue becoming a licensed special education teacher in Hawai‘i?

The University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa offers multiple pathways and options for becoming a licensed special education teacher in Hawai‘i.

Our Special Education Recruitment Specialist can help you determine which program would be the best fit and help you with the next steps!

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