Special Education Generalist (K-6)
About
Not all students learn at the same pace. That’s why special education teachers are vital to schools. You’ll get to help kids who need a little extra attention and guidance. With a special education generalist endorsement for K-6, you’ll be qualified to teach special needs students in kindergarten through grade 6. With a long-standing, excellent reputation for our education program, Wayne State is the perfect place to begin your career in special education.
Percent of recent WSC graduates employed or in graduate school
based on the most recent graduate survey
Our Focus is Results
Wayne State has the keys to your success and offers just what you need to become well prepared for the real world.
Skills Learned
- Inclusive learning strategies
- Educational provisions for exceptional learners
- Understanding special education laws
- Engaging all learners in various classroom settings
- Monitoring and assessment
- Social, emotional, and behavior development K-6
- Consulting and collaborating
- Teaching intermediate reading
- Human development and cognition
- Teaching and instruction methods
- Speech pathology
- Classroom management
- Lesson plan development
Possible Careers
- Elementary school teacher
- Special education teacher
- Learning coach
- After-school program manager
- Youth worker
- In-home tutor
- Behavioral specialist
- Guidance counselor
- Educational consultant
- Youth worker
Employers
- Elementary schools
- Community programs
- Government programs
- Non-profit organizations
- Education / learning centers
- Special education centers
- Rehabilitation centers
- Disability and behavioral health centers
- Distance-learning centers
Outside the Classroom
At Wayne State College, you’ll have opportunities to enhance your education by participating in clubs, organizations, internships, and more.
Clubs and Organizations
- Early Childhood Association
- Wayne Student Education Association of Nebraska (WSEAN)
- Student Council for Exceptional Children (SCEC)
- Kappa Delta Pi
Service-Learning
Make a difference in the community while learning skills you can apply toward your future career. Wayne State’s Service-Learning program has received national awards in recognition of outstanding community service, with more than 400 students participating in Service-Learning projects each semester.
Opportunities
- Northeast Nebraska Teachers Academy (NENTA) - Develop your classroom skills and get paid at the same time.
- Study Abroad - Earn credit toward your degree while experiencing exciting global adventures overseas.
Clinical Practice
Before graduating with your degree to teach special education, you will complete a semester of clinical practice in a school district chosen with the help of your advisor. During this semester, you will work closely with an experienced teacher to gain classroom experience. Internships are not required as part of this program; however, Career Services is available to help students find employment opportunities.
