Teaching at the Elementary School LevelArguably, elementary school teachers have the second most important job in the world today (second only to parenting). As the cost of living increases, parents must trust in their child's teacher to help turn an active child into a bright, well-rounded student. By no means is this an easy task for some! Job OutlookThere is a consistently high demand for teachers in almost every state. Certain grade levels teacher openings, such as high school, are frequently available, while others, particularly preschool and kindergarten teaching slots, fill quickly. This is an important fact to take under consideration when deciding to enter college in order to pursue a teaching degree. What age level are you comfortable handling? Do wild kindergarteners put shivers down your spine, or are hormonal pre-teens who like to take out their aggression on each other more fearsome? Educational RequirementsTo become an elementary school teacher, one must possess at least a bachelor's degree. This requires a full four-years of college study with the last year or two requiring student teaching. A student teacher goes into a school in the final year or two of his or her college education and trains alongside a licensed teacher. This is the best way for a college student to gain hands-on experience at planning a curriculum, handling students, and experiencing a typical school day. If the teacher is going into a certain field, such as special education or computer technology, he or she must complete courses specifically designed for their area of specialty. Kindergarten teachers are asked in many states to have completed additional courses in child development and behavior. Passing ExaminationsMany states require teachers to continue their education in order to keep their teaching positions, so college is ongoing for those interested in the education field. Typically, the state or the taxpayers residing in that school district pay for the extra college courses. While the college is paid for, the teacher must spend time traveling to the local college, attending the lectures, and completing any coursework. Once the minimum requirement of a bachelor's degree has been met, the teacher must pass the state's teaching license examination. This testing process covers reading skills, writing skills, and teaching skills. If the test is passed, the aspiring teacher is given his or her license to teach. The only exception to this rule is for private school teachers. Many states do not require teachers in private school settings to acquire a license for teaching. Expected SalarySalaries for elementary school teachers vary from area to area. The national average ranges from $38,000 to $62,000. The salary is based on the area in which you will teach:
Teachers can supplement their income by coaching one of the school's sports teams or holding an after-school class or workshop. Summer school programs always need teachers, so additional opportunities for income are available through those programs as well. One thing to remember with any teacher's salary is that paychecks can be given year round or just during the months of the official school year. Many teachers prefer year round checks as it ensures there is money coming in when school is in a hiatus. Other ConsiderationsThere are other items to consider when taking a career in teaching. First, it is highly recommended (sometimes required) that teachers receive a flu shot, pneumonia shot, and full series of Hepatitis B vaccines. Children often come to school sick, and virus and bacterial infections can pass easily from child to teacher or child to child. Teachers usually receive a good number of sick days per year, but this can vary depending on where you are teaching. In Vermont, which is typical of the majority of states in the union, the average beginning teacher is given ten to fifteen days and they can accumulate over the years. Still citing Vermont's 2004 statistics, teachers must work with their class for 177 days per year, minus any sick or personal time. Eight days are required for teacher in-service days. The average Vermont teacher works for 7.5 hours per day and spends another 45 minutes planning the next day's curriculum or grading papers. School begins at the end of August and finishes in mid-June. The remainder of June, July, and most of August comprise the summer vacation period during which a teacher can lounge, take a second job, or help with the summer education programs. Other benefits that Vermont teachers receive are: Health insurance plans in which the school taxes pay for at least 80% of the monthly insurance rate. Dental insurance is usually a minimal charge amounting to dollars, if any. 63% of all teachers are involved in a cafeteria plan matched by their employer that pays for either a 401k or daycare expenses. There is no doubt that teaching a class of elementary aged school children or secondary students is both rewarding and exasperating. Remember that your attitude and mannerisms can shape a child's future. Teaching is not an easy job, but with the benefits and salary as a secondary reward, watching a child grow into a responsible young adult is truly satisfying! View a list of online schools offering teaching degrees and classes. |