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How much do special education program assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for special education program assistant in the United States is $18.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Special Education Program Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Special Education Program Assistant, you need knowledge of educational strategies for students with disabilities, familiarity with individualized education plans (IEPs), and often a high school diploma or relevant coursework in special education. Experience with assistive technology, data entry systems, and classroom management tools is commonly required. Patience, strong communication, and empathy are crucial soft skills for building trust and supporting both students and teachers. These skills ensure that students receive appropriate support, fostering their academic and social development in inclusive environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Special Education Program Assistants, and how can they be addressed?

Special Education Program Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing diverse student needs, supporting behavioral interventions, and adapting to changing classroom routines. Building strong communication with teachers and therapists, participating in ongoing training, and staying organized can help address these challenges. Collaboration and flexibility are key, as working closely with the educational team ensures consistency and support for students, leading to a more positive learning environment.

What are Special Education Program Assistants?

Special Education Program Assistants are professionals who support teachers and students within special education programs. They help implement individualized education plans (IEPs), assist with classroom management, and provide one-on-one or small group support to students with disabilities. Their role is vital in ensuring that students receive the accommodations and support they need to succeed academically and socially. They may also help with daily living skills, communication, and behavior management under the supervision of licensed special education teachers.

What is the difference between Special Education Program Assistant vs Classroom Aide?

AspectSpecial Education Program AssistantClassroom Aide
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require additional certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent
Work EnvironmentSpecial education classrooms, supporting students with disabilitiesGeneral education classrooms, assisting teachers and students
Employer & IndustrySchools, districts, special education programsSchools, districts, general education settings
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Special Education Program Assistants focus on supporting students with disabilities in specialized settings, often requiring specific certifications. Classroom Aides assist in general classrooms, providing support to teachers and students. While both roles involve assisting in educational environments, the Special Education Program Assistant typically works more closely with students with special needs and may have additional training requirements.

What cities are hiring for Special Education Program Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Special Education Program Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Special Education Program jobs? The most popular types of Special Education Program jobs are:
What states have the most Special Education Program Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Special Education Program Assistant jobs include:
Special Education Program Assistant jobs near you
Program Specialist Special Education - 26/27 SY

Program Specialist Special Education - 26/27 SY

Sunnyside Unified School District

Tucson, AZ

$43K - $56.70K/yr

Other

Posted 21 days ago

Sunnyside Unified School District rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

412th of 538 rated elementary and secondary schools

Job description

DEFINITION: The Special Education Program Specialist will provide support to the special education certified and classified staff in the district in the implementation of the Special Education program, as well as assist in Special Education Department functions regarding student participation in general curriculum, reports to ADE, and staff training.  Reports to the Exceptional Education Director.  
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
(Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following tasks, knowledge, skills and other characteristics.  This list of tasks is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY, and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by positions in this class).  
TASKS: 
Serves in complex cases as administrative designee and helps mediate in multi-disciplinary conferences with parents of students who have been referred for Special Education evaluation when there are dissenting views of placement options.  Inform parents of legal rights and due process procedures.
Function as the first-level ombudsperson in reviewing placement or parental concerns regarding Special Education services.
Serve as the main liaison between school sites and the Special Education Department in implementing the Special Education program to include program development, coordination and evaluations.
Provide instructional support to classroom teachers and programmatic/personal care assistants.
Assist with integration and communication between special education, regular education to include curriculum and language acquisition program in order to meet the needs of diverse learners. Assist with the implementation of MTSS and UDL.
Evaluate effectiveness of IEP through classroom observation as requested by the special education department, site administrators, parents and teachers.
Assist teachers and site administrators by recommending alternative methods or materials to be used to meet the educational needs of students who are ineligible for special education programs.
Meet regularly with sites special education team (Psychologist, SLPs, and Special Ed Teachers etc).
Consults with school site administration to ensure compliance with state/federal law in disciplining and transferring students.
Provides inter-agency liaison services including the monitoring of IEP's between the district and non-public schools, county-operated programs, residential treatment centers, and other school districts to assure appropriate educational services for pupils with exceptional needs.
Monitor accuracy and compliance of special education students' data base and paperwork.
Use student data for assisting in the completion of required reports to the ADE.
Assist in the coordination of norm-referenced and state assessments, and the appropriate accommodations and modifications for special education students.
Plan and conduct special education and related issues in-services.
Participates in the development or innovative instructional and behavioral intervention methods to meet the exceptional needs of pupils.
OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Participates in selected regional special education administrators meetings.
Provides information to parent groups and community agencies regarding special education programs, services and procedures.
Maintains current knowledge of regulations and procedures related to programs and services for pupils with exceptional needs.
Maintains professional competence through participation in staff development activities provided and supported by the district, and other professional growth activities selected by the employee.
Performs other duties as assigned by the Special Services Administrator.  
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND OTHER CHARACTERISTICS: 
Knowledge of special education and gifted and talented pedagogy and the methods/materials used in effective instruction.
Knowledge of and ability to interpret Federal and State  laws, regulations, policies and guidelines related to special education,  gifted and talented programs, and 504 compliance.
Must demonstrate strong instructional abilities as well as knowledge of integration and inclusion strategies.
Skill in evaluating programs for effectiveness using qualitative and quantitative data,
In analyzing data and formulate decisions based on data,
In establishing and maintaining effective working relationships, and in evaluating special education personnel at assigned schools.
Excellent interpersonal skills and strong group facilitation skills.
Ability to communicate effectively and professionally in both verbal and written with parents, administration, school staff, and other relevant groups or individuals.  
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Work is performed in an indoor environment.  Work requires frequent sitting, repetitive motion, vision to monitor, and may require some lifting. Work requires travel from school to school.  
QUALIFICATIONS:
Valid Arizona Certification in Special Education and Supervisor (up to 2 years to acquire supervisor certification)
Valid Arizona IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card
Minimum 5 years' experience in a special education setting
Salary: PNT-260, Grade E              Hours per Day: 8               Days in Contract: 260                    
Application Procedure:
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