Pre-K Teacher: Job Description and Requirements for a Pre-K Teaching Career

Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K) teachers instruct children under the age of five years old in public and private schools. Pre-K teachers use creative methods of learning, such as music, art and hands-on training to educate students and prepare them for kindergarten.

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Pre-K Teacher Job Description

Pre-K teachers use an approved curriculum to develop both academic and social skills in their students in subjects like reading and social studies. This may include one-on-one and group instruction. Teachers may use activities like games and songs to help children develop skills in areas such as language and math.

Career Outlook for Pre-K Teaching

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), pre-K teaching opportunities are anticipated to increase by 19% between 2008 and 2018 (www.bls.gov). This expected growth is a result of the increasing importance being placed on early childhood education. Additionally, the BLS forecasted higher school enrollment for children between three and five years of age.

Salary Information

The BLS reports that pre-K teachers earned a median wage of $25,700 annually as of May 2010. Teachers working in New York averaged the highest earnings, with annual mean salaries of $38,200.

Pre-K Teacher Requirements

While all states mandate some form of licensure, specific requirements for pre-K teachers vary considerably from state to state. For example, in some states prospective candidates must finish high school and earn the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, while in other states they may need to complete an associate's degree program in early education or child development.

CDA Credential

The Council for Professional Recognition offers CDA credentials to candidates who are juniors or seniors in a vocational high school early education program, as well as to individuals who have earned a high school diploma or its equivalent (www.cdacouncil.org). Qualified individuals must show proof of 120 hours of formal early childhood training and 480 hours of professional experience within the past five years. Once complete, applicants must demonstrate their skills in front of a council representative.

CDA Renewal

CDA credentials must be renewed. The initial CDA lasts three years, but after the first renewal, the certification is good for five years. CDA renewal requirements include providing documentation of a pediatric first aid certification, completing 4.5 continuing education credits and accruing 80 hours of work experience. Individuals must also submit letters of recommendation and proof of membership in a childhood development professional organization.

Associate's Degrees

Early childhood education programs generally begin with courses that introduce students to topics in early childhood education, health and development. Additional courses teach students how to help children understand concepts in math and science.

Teacher Practicum

Associate's degree programs may include a teacher practicum in the curriculum. Sometimes referred to as internships, these experiences provide students with an opportunity to prepare daily lessons and increase their classroom management skills.

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