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How to Become an Elementary School Teacher
Elementary School Teachers are the builders of foundational skills, sparking curiosity and confidence in students during their most formative years. They teach core subjects like reading, writing, math, science, and social studies, helping children develop critical thinking, creativity, and social-emotional growth.
If you are passionate about nurturing young learners and making a lasting impact, becoming an Elementary School Teacher is an incredibly rewarding career path. A Bachelor’s in Elementary Education—and often a Master’s in Education or Curriculum and Instruction—provides the training you need to succeed.
Elementary School Teacher Job Description
Elementary School Teachers create safe, engaging classroom environments where students build academic foundations and interpersonal skills. They plan lessons aligned to standards, assess learning progress, differentiate instruction for diverse learners, and collaborate with families to support each child’s success.
In many schools, elementary teachers work with the same group of students throughout the day, teaching multiple subjects and integrating cross-disciplinary learning opportunities.
Standard Tasks and Responsibilities:
| Core Tasks | Examples |
|---|---|
| Design and deliver daily lessons | Teach reading, math, science, and social studies aligned with curriculum standards |
| Differentiate instruction | Adapt lessons to support English learners, students with IEPs, and advanced learners |
| Assess and track student progress | Use formative and summative assessments to guide instruction |
| Foster social-emotional learning | Build classroom community, teach conflict resolution, and support student well-being |
| Communicate with families | Share academic progress, behavioral updates, and strategies for at-home support |
Widely quoted in elementary teaching to emphasize lasting educational impact.
What Are the Educational Requirements to Become an Elementary School Teacher?
All public elementary school teachers must hold at least a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education or a related field. Many also pursue a Master’s in Education, either before starting their careers or within a few years, to enhance their skills and meet continuing certification requirements.
Undergraduate programs include coursework in pedagogy, child development, instructional methods, and content area knowledge, along with a student teaching internship.
Education Path:
| Level | Program | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree | Elementary Education or closely related field | Required for initial licensure |
| Master’s Degree (optional) | M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction, Literacy, or STEM Education | Supports specialization, leadership roles, or salary advancement |
| Fieldwork | Student teaching | Full-time supervised teaching placement in an elementary classroom |
Internships and Exams:
- Completion of a supervised student teaching semester
- Passage of state-mandated licensure exams (such as Praxis Elementary Education)
Are Any Certifications, Licenses, or Credentials Needed?
Yes, all public school teachers in elementary schools must earn a state teaching license. Requirements vary by state but generally include completing a bachelor’s degree, passing certification exams, and completing a background check.
Teachers who pursue advanced certifications, such as National Board Certification, can demonstrate excellence and increase their leadership opportunities.
Common Credentials:
| Credential | Purpose |
|---|---|
| State Teaching License (Elementary Education) | Required for teaching in public elementary schools |
| ESL or Special Education Endorsements | Allow teachers to work with specialized populations |
| National Board Certification (optional) | Recognizes accomplished teaching practice and can lead to higher salaries |
Licensing Process:
- Graduate from an approved teacher preparation program
- Pass general knowledge and subject-specific exams
- Submit a licensure application through your state’s department of education
Where Do Elementary School Teachers Work?
Elementary School Teachers work primarily in public and private elementary schools, teaching grades kindergarten through fifth or sixth grade, depending on the district. Some teachers specialize in certain subject areas, but most teach multiple subjects to the same group of students.
Common Workplaces:
- Public elementary schools (urban, suburban, rural)
- Private and independent schools
- Charter and magnet schools
- Online or blended learning environments
- International schools (for certified teachers seeking overseas opportunities)
Employer Examples:
| Employer Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Public School Districts | Los Angeles Unified School District, Miami-Dade County Public Schools |
| Charter Schools | Success Academy, KIPP, BASIS Charter Schools |
| Private Schools | Sidwell Friends School, The Dalton School, Montessori Schools |
| Virtual Schools | K12, Connections Academy |
See Related Articles Widget (This section will feature internal links to other education careers or specializations.)
What Skills and Traits Do Successful Elementary School Teachers Have?
Elementary teachers must balance strong content knowledge with warmth, patience, and creativity. They must manage classroom dynamics, engage diverse learners, and inspire a love of learning every day.
Successful teachers are flexible, compassionate, and committed to creating inclusive environments where all students thrive.
Key Skills and Traits:
- Instructional planning and classroom management
- Content knowledge across core subject areas
- Differentiation and inclusive practices
- Strong communication with families and colleagues
- Patience, empathy, and cultural competence
- Creativity in lesson design and student engagement
- Commitment to continuous learning and professional growth
Elementary School Teacher Salary Overview
Salaries vary based on geographic location, education level, and years of experience. Teachers with master’s degrees or National Board Certification often earn higher salaries.
| Role Level | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level Elementary Teacher | $48,000 – $58,000 |
| Experienced Elementary Teacher | $60,000 – $75,000 |
| Instructional Specialist or Lead Teacher | $70,000 – $90,000+ |
Job Outlook: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of elementary school teachers is projected to grow steadily over the next decade, driven by rising student enrollment and ongoing efforts to reduce class sizes.
Link to our Master’s in Education Salary Guide for more details.
Take the Next Step Toward Becoming an Elementary School Teacher
If you’re ready to inspire young learners, build strong foundations, and foster lifelong curiosity, becoming an Elementary School Teacher offers a career of lasting impact. A Bachelor’s or Master’s in Elementary Education will prepare you to lead classrooms that nurture every student’s potential.
Explore programs that help you master teaching strategies, embrace diverse learners, and create joyful learning environments.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Elementary School Teachers
- National Education Association (NEA): Teacher Resources
- Education Week: Teacher Certification and Career Resources
- National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS): Certification Information