Do you love kids? Do you want to be a part of shaping their young lives as they begin their educational journey? If so, consider becoming an elementary school teacher.
In this article, we'll talk about what it takes to begin your career in elementary education.
Specifically, we'll look at what elementary teachers do and give you a step-by-step process to help you meet all the education requirements and begin this rewarding career.
What Does an Elementary School Teacher Do?
Elementary school teachers are tasked with educating students in first through fifth grade. Students in this age group typically range between six and 11 years old.
Most elementary school teachers teach only one grade at a time. For example, one teacher may spend the whole school year (or whole career) educating second graders, while another may focus on teaching fourth grade.
Elementary school teachers work in public school districts as well as private schools. Some of their job duties include:
- preparing lesson plans
- providing classroom instruction and homework assignments
- monitoring each child's growth and development
- grading and conducting tests and exams
- meeting with students' families to discuss each child's progress
Elementary school teachers work during normal hours on weekdays during the school year, though additional time may be spent preparing lessons or helping students after-hours.
So, how do you become an elementary school teacher? What are the educational requirements for anyone hoping to pursue this career? Check out each of the steps below.
Step 1: Obtain a Bachelor's Degree
Aspiring teachers must hold a bachelor's degree regardless of the state they live in or the grade level they plan to teach.
Any bachelor's degree is acceptable, but those who know they want to teach in an elementary school are advised to enroll in an elementary education degree program.
These programs provide specific training and certification that will be necessary for obtaining your teacher's license.
If you are enrolled in another degree program, you may have to obtain these additional experiences separately.
What's more, a degree in elementary education will provide you specific instruction on teaching a variety of subjects.
This will provide you with a well-rounded education which you can then pass onto your students once you begin teaching.
Step 2: Complete Student Teaching Requirements
Most states require aspiring teachers to complete a student teaching program. Some elementary education majors may complete this step as part of their degree program.
Student teachers typically spend one or two semesters in a classroom setting, teaching students under the supervision of a licensed teacher.
This internship enables them to obtain valuable on the job experience and feedback from more advanced teachers.
If a student teaching element is not included as part of your degree program, contact your local school district to find out about participating in their student teaching program.
Step 3: Get Licensed
Once you have your degree and have logged the appropriate number of student teaching hours, you are ready to get your teacher's license.
Licensing requirements vary by state, so it's important to find out what is required in the specific state you plan to work in.
Some states may require more student teaching hours, for example, or may require you to be a certain age before applying.
Obtaining your license will most likely involve passing background checks and various state-administered examinations.
Again, check with your specific state to understand the exact requirements you will need to meet to become licensed in that state.
Step 4: Consider Obtaining a Master's Degree
Some states require their elementary school teachers to pursue a master's degree as a condition of hire. Even if it's not required, you may want to consider pursuing a master's degree.
Obtaining a master's degree can help you deepen your understanding of childhood education and may open up new career opportunities.
It may also enable you to specialize in early childhood education, special education, or other advanced fields.
On average, it takes two to three years to complete a master's degree program.
Many of these programs are available in a flexible online or weekend format so you can earn your graduate degree while working.
Step 5: Consider Pursuing Specialized Education
Once you've been working as an elementary school teacher for a while, you may find that you prefer working with a specific group of kids or teaching a specific subject.
You may be able to pursue advanced education to specialize in these areas.
For example, you could obtain a graduate certificate in autism spectrum disorders, STEM education, or behavioral analysis.
You could also pursue a reading specialist or special education certification.
These specialized education programs are typically short and flexible, and they add credentials to your resume.
They enable you to pursue more specialized interests and help you be the best you can be as you educate the next generation of children.
Your Path to Becoming an Elementary School Teacher
If you want to become an elementary school teacher, you'll need at least a bachelor's degree, student teaching experience, and a state license.
Follow the steps outlined in this article to fulfill each of these education requirements.
