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Apr 29, 2025
As a special education (SPED) teacher or paraprofessional, your resume is your first opportunity to make a strong impression on recruiters. Whether you’re seeking a contract position or a long term role, showcasing your unique skills, experience, and passion for supporting students with diverse learning needs can help you stand out. With the ongoing shortage of special education teachers nationwide, new opportunities are emerging for qualified professionals ready to make a difference. Here are key tips to enhance your resume and catch a recruiter’s attention.
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Paraprofessionals work under the supervision of certified teachers to provide instructional support, often in small group or one-on-one settings. Their duties may vary depending on the school and student population but often include:
SPED professionals bring a unique set of skills to the classroom. Clearly outline your expertise in areas such as:
● Individualized Education Programs (IEPs): Experience in developing, implementing, or supporting IEPs.
● Behavior Management Strategies: Knowledge of techniques like Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS).
● Assistive Technology: Familiarity with tools and software that aid student learning.
● Collaboration & Teamwork: Experience working with teachers, therapists, and families to support students.
Rather than listing job duties, focus on accomplishments and impact. Use bullet points to describe how you made a difference:
● Assisted in modifying lesson plans to accommodate students with learning disabilities, improving engagement by 30%.
● Led small-group interventions that boosted student reading proficiency by two grade levels.
● Supported students with behavioral challenges using de-escalation techniques, reducing incidents by 40%.
Recruiters look for SPED professionals who stay up to date with best practices. Include relevant credentials such as:
● State teaching certification in special education.
● Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) certification (if applicable).
● Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI) or de-escalation training.
● Ongoing professional development or coursework related to special education.
Many recruiters and hiring managers use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to filter resumes. Incorporate relevant keywords found in job postings, such as “differentiated instruction,” “inclusion strategies,” and “adaptive learning.”
A well-structured resume improves readability. Follow these formatting tips:
● Use clear section headers (e.g., Summary, Skills, Experience, Education).
● Keep bullet points concise (1-2 lines each).
● Choose a simple, easy-to-read font like Arial or Calibri.
● Limit your resume to one or two pages.
Your resume should start with a compelling summary highlighting your experience and passion for special education. Example: “Dedicated special education teacher with 5+ years of experience supporting students with diverse learning needs. Skilled in developing IEPs, implementing evidence-based interventions, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to foster student success.”
If you have volunteer experience working with students with disabilities or participation in SPED-related organizations, include it! This showcases your dedication beyond the classroom.
A well crafted resume can make all the difference in landing your next SPED position. By emphasizing your specialized skills, tailoring your experience, and using a clear, professional format, you’ll increase your chances of standing out to recruiters. Ready to take the next step in your special education career? Aequor’s dedicated recruiters are ready to connect you with rewarding opportunities. Browse our available positions and get connected with an Aequor recruiter today!
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