Elementary School Teacher
Elementary School Teacher Overview
Elementary-school teachers work with students in grades one through six, though in some cases elementary school continues through eighth grade. They are typically responsible for teaching multiple subjects to a single class, though some schools employ a team-teaching approach where two or more teachers are jointly responsible for a single group. Some elementary teachers also teach specialized subjects such as art, music, or a foreign language.
Elementary teachers are well advised to have patience, good multi-tasking skills, and a well-developed sense of boundaries to deal with occasional disciplinary problems in the classroom. When these behavioral issues arise, teachers are responsible for communicating with parents to create a roadmap for better behavior.
Elementary School Teacher Training and Education
Many teachers have a bachelor's or even a master's degree in education, while others have a degree in a related field. Regardless of his or her undergraduate degree, however, an elementary teacher must get their teaching credential before seeking work. While licensing requirements vary by state, elementary teachers are required to have a bachelor's degree and have completed an approved training program before going for their credential. Alternative licensure programs are also available for candidates with an educational background that is neither directly nor indirectly related to teaching.
Undergraduate education degrees focus on the theory and practice of teaching, administrative and support services, and related research. These programs also offer theoretical as well as practical preparation for a career in teaching. Students learn the psychology behind teaching and learning, as well as the basics of a wide variety of subject areas, how to prepare lesson plans, and how to handle potential challenges such as discipline problems.
An education degree also prepares future teachers to multi-task while motivating and inspiring their students. This degree will also provide insight into the many career opportunities afforded by an education degree. Graduates learn the fundamentals of pedagogy and, upon graduate are prepared to function in a variety of classroom settings.
Elementary School Teacher Salary and Career Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, median annual earnings of kindergarten, elementary, middle, and secondary school teachers ranged from $43,580 to $48,690 in May 2006. The lowest 10 percent earning $28,590 to $33,070, while the top 10 percent earning $67,490 to $76,100.
The BLS also found that beginning teachers, according to the American Federation of Teachers, earned an average of $31,752 in the 2004-05 school year, and the estimated average salary of all public elementary and secondary school teachers during that same year was $47,602.
Elementary teachers are sometimes paid less than those teaching high school. High-school educators are often required to have higher levels of training and certification, and a master's degree is often encouraged. Teachers can enhance their salary by taking on additional duties, such as coaching sports or advising students working on the school newspaper or yearbook.
Elementary School Teacher Career Fields
Elementary-school teachers have the option of teaching in either the public or private sector. Though public schools typically pay better than private schools, private schools often offer extra benefits or incentives such as free or subsidized housing.
While most elementary-school teachers work with a single group throughout the day, covering several basic subjects such as math, English, and social studies, some schools have implemented a team-teaching approach where two or more teachers are responsible for teaching a particular group. Elementary teachers sometimes also teach specific subjects to rotating groups of students.
Teachers may also choose to supplement their incomes by offering private tutoring, either on an individual or group basis.
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