How to become a learning disabilities teacher

How to become a Learning Disabilities Teacher

Becoming a learning disabilities teacher involves education, certification, and practical experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Bachelor’s Degree
Obtain a bachelor’s in special education teaching, education, psychology, or a related field. Some programs offer a concentration in learning disabilities or special education, with coursework in child development, learning theory, behavioral management, and special education laws.

Teacher Preparation Program
As part of a bachelor's degree, you must complete a teacher preparation program. This includes student teaching experience in a classroom setting with students who have learning disabilities, under the supervision of an experienced teacher, as well as practical training in how to adapt instruction, develop individualized education plans (IEPs), and use assistive technologies.

State Certification / Licensing
After completing a bachelor's degree and teacher preparation program, you must obtain state certification (in the US) or equivalent in your country. Certification requirements vary by state, but typically include passing standardized exams (e.g., the Praxis Special Education Exam in the US), completing a background check, and providing proof of student teaching experience.

Master’s Degree (Optional but Recommended)
Many learning disabilities teachers choose to pursue a master’s degree in special education, learning disabilities, or a related field. A master's may be required for certain special education endorsements. This advanced education can lead to higher salaries and more career opportunities.

Special Education Endorsements / Additional Certifications
Many states require an endorsement in learning disabilities or special education. Some of the certifications described below may be required, or pursued voluntarily to expand skills, improve outcomes for students, and meet the diverse needs of students with learning disabilities.

• Learning Disabilities Teacher-Consultant (LDT-C) – This specialized certification is mandatory in certain regions (like New Jersey, US). LDT-C programs prepare experienced teachers to advance into positions on a child study team. Prerequisites to enter an LDT-C program usually include a Master’s Degree in Special Education and relevant experience.
• Orton-Gillingham Certification – This specialized certification, administered by the Orton-Gillingham Academy, is for teachers working with students with dyslexia. It provides training in a structured, multisensory approach to reading instruction. Various levels of Orton-Gillingham certification (such as Associate Level and Certified Level) are available based on the teacher’s expertise.
• Dyslexia Specialist Certification – Teachers who work specifically with students who have dyslexia can pursue certifications through organizations like the Center for Effective Reading Instruction (CERI), an affiliate of the International Dyslexia Association (IDA). These certifications demonstrate knowledge and proficiency in diagnosing and providing instruction to students with dyslexia.
• Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Certification – ABA certification is useful for teachers working with students who exhibit behavioral challenges alongside learning disabilities. This professional credential allows practitioners to design and implement behavior interventions based on evidence-based practices. Candidates must complete a graduate degree with ABA coursework and supervised fieldwork, as well as pass the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) exam administered by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB).
• Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) Certification – Teachers can earn certifications in assistive technology to learn how to use tools and devices that support students with learning disabilities. Organizations like the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) offer assistive technology training and certification programs.
• NASET Board Certifications – The National Association for Special Education Teachers (NASET) offers five board certification programs: Board Certification in Classroom Management (BCCM), Board Certification in Inclusion in Special Education (BCISE), Board Certification in Individualized Education Programs Development (BCIEP), Board Certification for Advocacy in Special Education (BCASE), Board Certification in Special Education (BCSE). These credentials demonstrate high levels of competency and can lead to professional recognition and higher pay.
• National Certification of Educational Diagnosticians (NCED) – This credential certifies teachers to assess and diagnose students' learning disabilities and guide the development of individualized education plans.
• Reading Specialist Certification – This certification program focuses on helping students with reading difficulties, such as those with dyslexia. The certification validates specific expertise in literacy instruction and intervention.

Teaching Experience
Work in public schools, special education programs, or private learning centers. Many teachers start as special education aides or co-teachers before leading their own classrooms.

Ongoing Professional Development
Stay updated with new teaching strategies, laws, and technologies. Attend workshops, join professional organizations (e.g., Council for Exceptional Children - CEC), and renew certifications as needed.

Professional Organizations
In addition to the certifying bodies referenced above in the Special Education Endorsements / Additional Certifications section, the following organizations also support the special education and learning disabilities community:

• Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) – The CEC is one of the largest professional organizations dedicated to improving the educational success of students with disabilities, including those with learning disabilities. The CEC Division for Learning Disabilities (DLD) specifically focuses on issues related to learning disabilities, offering resources, conferences, and professional development opportunities for teachers.
• Learning Disabilities Association of America (LDAA) – The LDAA is dedicated to advocating for individuals with learning disabilities and providing educators with resources to support these students. They offer professional development, conferences, and research-based strategies for working with students with learning disabilities.
• National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD) – The NCLD advocates for individuals with learning disabilities and provides resources for educators to improve their teaching practices. It offers research, policy updates, and best practices for working with students with learning disabilities.
• American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) – While ASHA primarily focuses on speech and language pathologists, it offers resources for teachers working with students who have speech and language disorders alongside learning disabilities. ASHA offers certifications and professional development focused on communication and literacy issues that often overlap with learning disabilities.
• Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) – ABAI is a global organization dedicated to supporting the use of behavior analysis to help individuals with disabilities, including those with learning disabilities. Teachers can benefit from their resources on applying behavior analysis techniques to improve learning outcomes for students with behavioral or academic challenges.
• National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) – The NASP supports school psychologists who work with students with learning disabilities. While focused more on assessment and mental health, their resources can be valuable for teachers who work closely with school psychologists in identifying and supporting students with learning disabilities.
• Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) – ASCD provides resources for teachers to improve instruction for diverse learners, including those with learning disabilities.