Teaching, Elementary
Teaching elementary school students can be a rewarding career for people who enjoy working with children and want to make a difference in their lives. Keep reading to learn more about preparing for a career in this field.
Inside Elementary School Teaching
Elementary school teachers instruct children from grades K-6 in academic subjects like mathematics, science and language arts. These teachers need to have strong written and oral communication skills; they also should enjoy working with children. In addition, teachers at this level should be patient and dedicated to the emotional and academic well-being of their students.
Most elementary school teachers earn a bachelor's degree in elementary education, although individuals can pursue a teaching career after earning a bachelor's degree in another field. Public schools require elementary-level teachers to obtain a license, which is earned by passing one or more state-administered exams. Additional licensure requirements vary but typically include completion of a bachelor's program and a student teaching experience. Individuals who have a bachelor's degree in a subject other than elementary education may qualify for provisional licensure. In some states, this allows aspiring instructors to teach classes while completing required coursework on their own time.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of employed elementary school teachers was expected to increase by 16% from 2008-2018 (www.bls.gov). During this time, teachers with specialized knowledge of in-demand subjects - like mathematics or science - should reportedly have more employment opportunities. In 2010, the median annual wage for elementary school teachers was $51,660, as noted by the BLS.
Learn More About Elementary School Teaching
Working as an elementary school teacher can be rewarding, and people with degrees in a variety of fields may enter this profession. You can learn more about career and degree options in elementary school teaching at Education-Portal.com.
Degree Options
Although most teachers have a bachelor's degree in elementary education, you can pursue a career in this field if you have a bachelor's degree in another field and take certification courses in order to obtain licensure. Below is a partial list of articles about degrees in elementary education.
- Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education
- Master's Degree in Elementary Education
- Master's Degree in Elementary Education: Technology and Design
- Master's Degree in Elementary Education: Reading Curriculum and Instruction
Career Options
While most elementary school teachers instruct one class in multiple subjects, some teach children in one subject or focus on teaching students with disabilities. Refer to the articles below for several career options as an elementary school teacher.
Distance Learning Options
Some schools offer online degree programs in elementary education. Make sure to select a program that prepares you for certification in the state in which you wish to work.
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