With elementary education, teachers do not have to be certified in each specific area. They simply need to receive a degree in elementary education, which covers the essentials of teaching in all subject areas. Each state has different requirements about which grades this degree covers, but typically it covers grades K through 5. This allows the teacher to be able to chose between 6 different grades to teach.
Special Education degrees provide certification in grades K through 12. There are sub specialty areas in special education, but a degree in varying exceptionalities covers all special ed disabilities. A teacher with a degree and certification in special education with a specialization in varying exceptionalities can teach grades K throiugh 12, and any disability area. This degree provides the greatest versatility for a special education teacher.
Reading has taken on a more important role as a separate class in most grade levels due to the increase importance of standardized testing. If a student falls behind in reading, they will receive a separate class in reading. Teachers can now opt to become certified in reading, which covers grades K through 12. Many states now have special grants to hire teachers in reading classes. Florida and Alabama are 2 states that hire teachers to use the Reading 180 reading instruction module to teach students who have fallen behind.
Any teacher who is certified to teach a specific subject at the middle school level can either take classes or take their state's exam to become certified in middle school integrated curriculum. This teacher could then teach all subjects to a middle school student, as opposed to the one subject she is certified in. The grade range of this certification differs from state to state, Florida covers teachers in grade 5 through 9 with this added certification.
Requirements for degrees and certification areas differ by state. Your local education college or school board can provide information about their specific requirements. You can also contact your state's Department of Education to receive information about requirements for certification in each academic area.