(By DeManda McGowen, ESU 8
(By DeManda McGowen, ESU 8 Executive Administrative Assistant) If you think education happens under just one roof or within a single building—think again. At the Educational Service Unit 8 (ESU 8), located in Neligh, the work of supporting students stretches far beyond the walls of a single building. With staff spread across seven counties and 18 school districts, ESU 8 is a hub of collaboration, creativity, and commitment.
ESU 8 employs 108 dedicated staff members, all working together to support students and schools. A large and impactful portion of that team is in special education, where professionals with a wide variety of expertise come together with one shared goal: helping every student succeed.
Special education isn’t just one job — it’s a team effort made up of many different roles, each bringing unique skills and perspectives. These educators support students with diverse needs, ensuring access to learning, communication, independence, and growth. And the best part? These programs continue to grow, reaching more students and making a difference every single day. For example, in 2014-15, ESU 8 employed 71 educators in special education, whereas now, we employ 83 educators in special education.
So, what does a career in special education actually look like? Here’s a closer look at some of the roles that make it all happen: Special Education Administrators lead programs, support staff, ensure compliance with laws, and help shape services for students. Degree: Master’s or higher in Special Education or Administration Administrative Assistants keep everything running smoothly behind the scenes — scheduling meetings, managing paperwork, and supporting staff and families. Degree: High school diploma or associate’s degree (varies) Special Education Teachers provide direct instruction, adapt curriculum, and support students with individualized learning needs. Degree: Bachelor’s degree in Special Education Paraprofessionals work alongside teachers to support students in the classroom with academics, behavior, and daily skills. Degree: High school diploma; additional certification or coursework may be required Teachers of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing support students with hearing loss through specialized instruction and communication strategies. Degree: Bachelor’s or Master’s in Deaf Education Early Childhood Special Education Teachers work with young children (birth–age 5) to build foundational developmental and learning skills. Degree: Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Special Education Teachers of the Visually Impaired help students with vision loss access learning through alternative methods such as Braille and assistive technology. Degree: Master’s Degree in Visual Impairment School Psychologists assess student needs, complete evaluations for special education eligibility, support mental health, and help teams develop plans for student success. Degree: Ed Specialist degree in School Psychology Speech-Language PathologistAssistants (SLPAs) work under the supervision of an SLP to help deliver speech and language services. Degree: Bachelor’s degree in communication disorders Speech Paraeducators assist in implementing speech and language activities with students who are receiving speech therapy from an SLP via teletherapy. Degree: High school diploma; additional training often required Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) diagnose and treat communication disorders, helping students find their voice - literally. Degree: Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology From classrooms to communities, these professionals bring passion, patience, and expertise to their work every day. Special education is more than a service — it’s a commitment to ensuring all students have the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.
At ESU 8, that commitment is alive and well — and making a difference across northeast Nebraska, one student at a time.
