How a staffing shortage can make special education jobs more dangerous

Special educators are more likely to experience violence or aggression from students. That can make hiring a challenge, at a time when schools nationwide are struggling to fill these positions.

How a staffing shortage can make special education jobs more dangerous
Margo Jimenez cries as she talks about the moment she realized her husband, Fred Jimenez, would never wake up. According to his death certificate, Fred died of "blunt force head injuries" on Feb. 17, 2024. His injuries were caused by a push from a student 10 days earlier. His death was ruled a homicide.

Special educators are more likely to experience violence or aggression from students. That can make hiring a challenge, at a time when schools nationwide are struggling to fill these positions.

(Image credit: Samuel Rocha IV)