Special education teachers play a crucial role in supporting the academic and social development of students with disabilities. However, many states, including Arkansas, Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana (the four states), have been experiencing a shortage of special education teachers in recent years, and retaining experienced teachers has become an urgent priority. The purpose of this study was to explore the factors that motivate novice (one to four years of service and veteran special education teachers (with over five years of service) in Arkansas, Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana to retain their commitment to the field of education. Specifically, this study aimed to understand how the concepts of the Self-Determination Theory impact special education teachers' job satisfaction, motivation, and intention to stay in their profession. In this qualitative research study, novice and veteran special education teachers from Arkansas, Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana were interviewed. These teachers had been teaching for at least two years or more. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed thematically to explore their experiences and perceptions. The study revealed that retaining special education teachers in the four states hinged on several aspects -- Autonomy: Having a say in decision-making, implementing innovative teaching methods, and controlling work schedules. Competence: Access to professional development, continuing education support, and recognition for expertise. Relatedness: Supportive colleagues, positive school culture, and a sense of purpose in their work. These aspects were crucial for both novice and veteran teachers in special education. The results of this study had implications for policy and practice in special education teacher retention, thus confirming that retaining novice and veteran special education teachers required addressing the aspects that contribute to their sense of autonomy, competence, and relatedness. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]