The U.S. is experiencing a teacher shortage due to retirement and lack of resources. To combat these conditions, special education teachers are turning to agencies like AB Staffing for career flexibility and greater earning power.
According to the Learning Disabilities Association of America, during the 2022-23 school year, 21% of schools reported at least one vacancy in special education, and 55% of schools reported difficulty filling special education teacher positions. This is partly due to an estimated 270,000 teachers and staff members quitting or retiring nationwide yearly, meaning teachers are in greater demand than ever.
Working with a Staffing Agency
Have you considered travel as an education professional where you can teach and explore new places? Or, if you are looking for a job local to your area, a staffing agency can also help you.
We’re currently placing special ed teachers nationwide in in-demand schools to fill the gaps in education. Special Education teachers often provide essential services that districts cannot afford to delay, which means these roles are a top priority to fill quickly.
Benefits of working with a staffing agency include:
- Flexibility to choose based on your lifestyle, whether you’re seeking short-term, long-term, or travel-based contracts.
- Competitive pay because the agency is working on your behalf to find the best fit for your skills and experience.
- Professional growth comes from work in different environments, schools, and geographic areas.
- Increased networking opportunities from varied experiences.
As a teacher working with an agency, you will partner with an experienced recruiter who understands education and can match you with the right opportunities.
Considerations Before Accepting a Contract
Before signing the contract, read it and ask your recruiter questions. It’s okay to want to have all your questions answered before finalizing the agreement. If you feel you aren’t getting the needed information, it may be time to consider changing staffing agencies. Assuming you’re working with the right agency, consider the following before accepting a contract:
- Do they offer licensing and credentialing support? It’s a nice add to have them available to help you, especially if you’re considering a special education teacher position in another state.
- What is the school environment like? Ask about class size, caseload, available aides, and overall support. Special Ed roles vary greatly, whether resource room-based, self-contained, or inclusion-based.
- What are the expectations and resources? It’s important to understand how much autonomy the teacher will have, what curriculum is used, and what support staff (SLPs, OTs, paraprofessionals) are available.
- Are there any future opportunities? Many contracts lead to extensions or full-time offers. Inquire about the potential for renewal or long-term placement, if desired.
Not all contracts are alike, and neither are staffing agencies.
AB Staffing supports special education teachers with our job matching expertise, 1:1 recruiter support and communication, and credentialing help. We’re here to help you find a new special education position in the coming school year. Check out our Education Job Board and contact us today to learn more.
