Here are four important steps to becoming an elementary school teacher: 1. There is crying that literally doesnt make sense and it has made me have to say, I dont understand why you are crying, and you should stop, because you seem crazy. (They know I mean that with love and by they, I mean the girls so emotional), There are occasional fist fights (Ive never seen one, but Ive heard about them haha!). Theyre just a little bigger than my 5th and 6th graders. A California teacher posted on social media about using a "gender-fluid" stuffed animal to teach children how to use the proper pronouns. Educators who teach math, science . Classroom Organization in the Middle School | Part 1, Reading and Writing Activities for Back to School in Middle School ELA, Using Back to School Stations in Middle School ELA, Best end-of-the-year activities for middle school ELA, Back to School Resources: Meet the Teacher Templates, Back to School Resources: Syllabi Templates. I have students who still try to get on their cell-phones, students who are still sneaky, students who push the limits, and some who still struggle to read and write. They like me. In an elementary school, the teacher is responsible for most, if not all subject areas (Many schools cannot afford specialists, so you are all the enrichment students get.) Students enjoy seeing this side of their teachers. Im Martina. According to ALAs Digital Literacy Task Force, it is defined as the ability to use information and communication technologies to find, evaluate, create, and communicate information, requiring both cognitive and technical skills. These abilities are required to survive, learn, and work in a society Resources for teachers, parents, and students to help deal with stress and changes during the pandemic, Discover the importance of social-emotional learning and activities to promote empathy in the classroom, Best practices for resiliency and self-care for teachers, Strategies and tools to implement the trauma-informed approach in classrooms and schools, Cultivating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Resources to help build an equitable classroom environment where diversity and inclusion is appreciated, Learn the best ways of adapting technology to be useful in your classroom environment, Strategies, tips, and teaching concepts to help teachers succeed in the classroom, Insightful content to help you design the ultimate curriculum for on-campus and online teaching, The best ways to implement self-care and resilience that are relevant to teachers, Helpful content addressing the needs of higher education professionals for online teaching, The latest trends and challenges in education, Read the latest published articles on Resilient Educator, By Sounds boring" or "I'm not sure". Not sure how to convey that? It shows that youve gone out of your way to dedicate yourself to the field, and, therefore, the success of a school. Elementary school teachers who expect students to listen to and respect them must provide them with the same courtesy. Answer "Dislike" if you tell yourself "Ugh. A doctorate is truly the pinnacle of elementary teacher training. A bachelor's degree stands as a typical minimum requirement to pursue a license as an elementary school teacher and acquire a job at a public school, regardless of an individual's state residency. Both options terrified me. People should care about this topic, because kids need their education. Elementary Classroom Teacher Kindergarten Teachers - will spend the day teaching children in a way that keeps them actively learning and helps them to develop a love for learning as well. Obviously, I didnt know all the answers in 5th and 6th either, but in 7th and 8th, they literally see me Google stuff almost every day you know, like real people do. Second Grade Teachers - spend less time helping children become adjusted to standard school routines than pre-kindergarten, kindergarten, or first grade teachers. Theyve been in school for 8 or 9 years by now (some of them being in school together that whole time), so they are helpful (like actually helpful and not the want to help, but its actually more work for the teacher in the long run kind of helpful), they are smart, they can think though some still choose not to , they still want to please me, and they WANT to do good in class and on their work. "Fast Facts." Now I am on the 6-12 side of my school, and now I watch the K-5 side think we are nuts all the time. Our resume examples show you how to add metrics to show what you will bring to the table if hired. Helping students understand a tricky topic, being a source of support through a difficult time, and seeing pupils succeed is . 5 Qualities of a Good Elementary School Teacher. Here's a roundup of their thoughts on what makes teaching elementary kids the best job ever. They are subject to a schedule which can't be altered without affecting other teachers. As teachers, we will be remembered by students for the rest of their lives. Being an elementary school teacher is great for an individual who enjoys teaching and learning about different subjects, and who does not want to feel limited by teaching only one subject. By pursuing this voluntary certification, youll be tested in four areas: Teachers with this national certification are more likely to receive higher pay, leadership positions and recognition. Would you make a good elementary school teacher? I trust them with their cell phones, I listen to their dumb drama (in short spurts with time limits), and I tell them they are smart all the time. Start with a curious detail that can only be addressed by diving into the background of the subject and thoroughly exploring it. These teachers teach in classrooms within the school setting, providing children with the necessary building blocks for further learning. And the elementary school day can simply get long right before recess or lunch, or right before the bell rings at the end of the day, you could be dealing with a room full of restless young minds who need someone willing to work on getting them focused. I do work at a charter school, so that may have something to do with it. They want to work for me because I believe in them and respect them. You open the world of reading to them. But, before you start sending advance payments to a teacher training program, its best to stop and learn what a day in the life of an elementary teacher really looks like. No problem! Digital literacy is a skill set that is increasingly becoming essential. There are a lot of factors to consider when dealing with students, especially children, which is why there are several educational requirements for teaching elementary school students. I dont expect them to complete assignments and know what to do simply because they are in middle school. You need to: Enjoy hard work. A: HECK YES! This doesnt happen overnight, but it does happen if you believe the best in them. Becoming an elementary school teacher is hard work but can be very rewarding. Try choosing short phrases that set clear expectations for conduct such as listening, being kind to others, and following directions, then compile these into a short list ofclassroom rulesthat are posted where students can always see them. It's ok to play games with your students, start singing, or be silly now and again. Have fun with this day at school game and enjoy being a best teacher of high school activity. Finding education materials that engage students is important. Q: Is it hard to teach English to 7th and 8th graders since you dont actually have an English degree? But there is a lot of English teacher mentality out there that needs elementary teachers to come in and balance it all out (just like I have had to balance my elementary mindset with some English teacher mindsets as well). And if youre reading this, wed venture to guess that youre already doing an. Some elementary teaching jobs will require a few additional education-based credits, but many will allow you to teach and earn the credits simultaneously. Learn your students names as quickly as possible and include some getting-to-know-you activities in the first few days of the school year. Fun Elementary Education Presentation Free Google Slides theme and PowerPoint template Apart from being essential in our personal development when we're young, education is what teaches us the things we need to know, especially at elementary level. Students need to know what to expect from teachers and when they can expect it. Loving kids is great, but make sure you can drink coffee with the adults. Theres a lot more to being a teacher besides the lesson plans. The average annual salary for kindergarten and elementary school teachers is $57,980. Salaries may differ even more for those who are self-employed or work part time. By getting to know everyone in your classroom, youll be better equipped to teach to students strengths, identify and intervene on problems early, and find a balance for the different learning styles and personalities in the class. A: Im going to answer in a way that may not be politically correct, but I think all secondary teachers should have to be an elementary teacher first (and honestly vice-versa). Becoming a preschool teacher means you get to watch children explore the world right as they're filled to the brim with excitement and wonder. And like I said, I honestly never have any issues, because if they need to get on their phone, they just ask me. To help students understand the class rules, model them on the first day of school. They have risen to my expectations and beyond. Quality of teachers can be very different, let me tell, I went over this site and I conceive you have a lot of wonderful information, saved to my bookmarks . 2. Ive already said that ALL teaching is hard work and once you get in a groove of a grade level (I think it takes a solid 2-3 years for this) it can even seem stupid to switch grades, but it is THE smartest thing you will ever do. Trust me. Elementary school can be tough kids are thrown into a social environment, many of them for the first time, and they have to face making friends, dealing with bullies, and establishing their self-worth, on top of the wealth of knowledge and basic skills in reading, writing, and math they are picking up at a fast pace. A second grade teacher will expect more from students and often children will notice that they have more responsibilities during the school day. Teachers who choose to work during the summer can also significantly increase their salary. So many teachers agreed with Ginger G.: "Nothing cheers you up like a kindergarten hug!" Brandi C. added, "Sometimes you think they need a hug and realize you do too." 2. If you like kids, elementary school is a great place to interact with them. Here are some other abilities that will help you do well in your elementary teacher role: Being in this field doesnt mean you will be restricted to just one type of classroom dynamic or set of job duties. In hindsight, I probably gave more credit to them than what was actually due, buy you want to know what? She helps you to re-prioritize, regain focus, and build confidence. It has hand-picked kindergarten teacher duties, a key accomplishment with numbers, and a previous awardproving to them you're gifted and talented. Elementary school teachers play a crucial role in preparing children for future success. But, the truth is, being an elementary art teacher is the most gratifying job in the world. Elementary school teachers typically have job duties such as these: Elementary school students usually spend most of their time in one classroom every day, which means that you will have your own classroom dedicated to the students you have that respective year. An elementary school teacher is responsible for the academic and emotional well-being of his or her students. Id also like to say that I think part of my love of this comes from the fact that I just think it was just destiny (even if I didnt know that). Teachers-to-be usually join their universitys teacher preparation program where they can learn about educational practices, curriculum and child psychology. Kids have an insight into the world that isn't tainted by disappointment. With the implementation of an aggressive local, state and national mandate to improve the quality of education, its becoming more common for districts to tie increased compensation to continuing education. Their work takes place in a specialized environment, or designated resource room. There may also be annual development classes required to keep licensure. Setting behavior expectations is a fundamental part of classroom management as well. Everyone always thinks they know better. More often that not, you will be a lot happier if you can work with parents, keep them informed and keep an open line of communication about their students progress. Q: Middle schoolers all write like they text. Learning about the advantages and disadvantages of teaching at this grade level can help you decide if this career is right for you. Download & play this amazing classroom school teacher fun game. Here are some ways middle and high school teachers can create safe learning communities in their classrooms: Set and model clear expectations for kind, constructive student language and behavior. Most often these people are drawn toward elementary education because of their passion to improve the lives and education of children. Q: What do you miss about elementary? Some of the cons are that it can be a LOT of work. I was the fifth grade teacher who went to EVERY SINGLE professional development class I could, because I have always been about improving myself and my teaching but I didnt truly become a good/confident teacher until I had to teach 5 different grade levels, and 3 different set-ups, in a matter of three years. 5 Reasons that Online Learning is the upcoming Future of Education, Staying concentrated longer in the Home Office: How you can learn and work in a focused manner over a long period of time, Why Attending an Online University is Right for You, Students Can Benefit From These Job Options. I want to make sure that you understand that it is a job and in no way an form we just gosto school to play around. . And if your degree is in the field of computer science, music, art, drama, earth or marine science, agronomy, speech and hearing pathology, foreign language or psychology youll find elementary schools looking for teachers with those skills for district-wide programs as well as classroom teaching positions. At the same time, you want students to look forward to entering the classroom each day. Q: How are you able to teach middle school English, when you dont have an English and/or secondary degree? Elementary students crave their art time. Show them you still have experience related to teaching jobs: Sample Elementary Teacher Resume No Experience right Early Child Care Worker At this stage of learning, it is easier to recognize which students will need more attention than others. That barrier between "educator" and "friend" is much lower when compared to older students. You will have model students who are exceptionally bright and well-behaved, and there will be other students who need a little more time and attention. I really cant, but the relationships with students are just as good, if not better, with my seventh and eighth graders, despite our 55 minutes together. You NEED to switch grades or jobs AT LEAST ONCE in your teaching career. These paraprofessionals can be found throughout the elementary system performing jobs as varied as special needs assistants, library and literacy resource aides, nutrition specialists and physical education and activities directors. My mindset is that my kids are good, so they just are. When it comes to subject matter, many teachers specialize in a field, such as art, and teach that for their entire career. It can definitely be tough to know how to talk to kids, explain things to them or understand where theyre coming from, so being open is key. They are responsible for the educational and emotional growth of children in a classroom setting, as well as managing the materials and resources used for educating them. Nancy Meyers writes for education blogs where you can learn more about Top 10 Best Online Colleges for Teachers. It can be very rewarding to know you've impacted such a tremendous amount of growth in a short period of time. Teaching is collaborative. Teachers will begin to deal with social differences as well as racial differences in students, as the students are at this stage beginning to solidly react to the diversity around them. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Elementary school teachers typically have job duties such as these: Create lesson plans to teach students specific subjects and skills, like English, art, science or music My mindset is a little more elementary in nature, but again, I have grown A TON because of how differently I have to think now, by being on a middle school team. I know people will want to sit her all day and tell me that their middle schoolers dont do this, but thats a waste of time. A successful teachers students will feel comfortable coming to them with questions or problems, confident theyll get a fair chance. They all just get each other. You have to consider state standards and test results, in addition to your students overall well-being and development. Greet students by name at the door at the start of each class period . Other teachers major in related fields with relevant elementary education coursework and field training in the classroom. This post has been updated as of December 2017. Honestly, they do. But as someone who was absolutely 100% obsessed with and stubbornly a fifth grade teacher, I know a lot of questions that people probably have about this switch, especially because my bachelors degree is in elementary education. Those who teach in private schools are not always required to be certified, however, most states will have applicants complete a background check. Paste 's own Amy. If I get more questions though, I will totally add to the post, AND if youre wondering if you should make the jump and switch grades, then the answer is YES! A: I am going to say something that some people wont like (and probably wont listen to) but I think I have earned my keep here. Elementary School Teacher Salary & Job Outlook. I have a kind of interesting dynamic at my current school because we are K-12. I also miss only having to get stuff for 24-48 students. Its weird, because obviously I got my degree in elementary, but I was so destined to teach middle school. But what if you have no teaching experience? Ha! Private schools often hire elementary education teachers with bachelors degrees in their subject area and dont require teacher certification. Growth mindset people. Teaching abroad and substitute teaching are just a few ways you can dip your toe in to see if teaching is the right career for you. For most teachers, however, the main advantage of a career as a teacher is the opportunity to inspire young people. A teacher can pick that child up and tell them they can accomplish anything, and they will really mean it. After I went to a couple of extra curricular activities, they started ALWAYS asking if I was going to the next). Teachers are supposed to teach them reading, math, writing, and science. Resourcefulness With multiple learning styles possible in a classroom, it is paramount that a teacher can come up with many ways of explaining a concept or answering a question. Elementary teachers are usually certified for early childhood education, which is preschool to third grade, or elementary school education, which is first through sixth or eighth grade. 15 Essential Elementary Education Teacher Skills For Your Resume And Career. But at the same time, they are seriously so sweet to each other because they are all going through it together. Becoming an elementary school teacher has so many rewards, but with them comes the huge responsibility of inspiring and preparing children for the world that lies ahead. Among other things, elementary school teachers work alongside parents to get children enthusiastic about learning for the first time. Good communication with teachers also builds trust in students as they continue their educational journey. 6. Elementary Teacher Elementary school teachers who expect students to listen to and respect them must provide them with the same courtesy. Check out this fifth-grade elementary school teachers daily schedule to see if a teaching career is truly for you. Doesnt it drive you crazy? From lesson plans to homework assignments, creating material that is effective and interesting can be difficult. Getting hands-on experience is paramount for good teachers, which is why classroom training is a core part of teacher education. I would have this same philosophy if I taught seniors in high school. All states require elementary school teachers to have at least a bachelors degree. But mostly, I teach them, instead of just giving them assignments. One of your main duties as an elementary school educator is to provide an educational foundation for the future. This makes it easier for scheduling holidays and after school care when . Advantages & Disadvantages of Becoming a Teacher. I love helping Middle School ELA teachers by creating blog posts and resources that are easy to use, practical, and engaging but also get you results! I think this can tend to happen when students go from elementary to middle school/high school. In addition, physical education can help students maintain a healthy weight, improve their cardiovascular health, and reduce their risk of developing chronic diseases. Deciding if your personality, education and career aspirations are a fit for the job is important to consider before diving into the field. YOU GET TO BE SURROUNDED WITH LOVE. The basic skills taught by kindergarten teachers are letter recognition, phonic learning, early mathematics, very basic reading skills, proper social skills, and confidence. This kind of student teaching allows potential teachers to have a mentor teacher and experience the classroom dynamic. Youre required to produce results for your district and are perhaps even evaluated based on those statistical results and data analysis. The job outlook for these teachers is growing as fast as the national average, which is about 4 percent through 2031, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). There are a number of ways that physical education can be taught to elementary students. But I think you do need some essential skills and key qualities to be a good teacher. I love seeing them learn how to actually write an essay while I am saying, I didnt do this until college. I love teaching them to analyze the text, cite textual evidence, and I LOVE teaching older kids to THINK. First of all, I dont know all the answers to English questions, so my 7th and 8th graders see me struggle through stuff with them. 1 The number of jobs available in a given region will vary based on school sizes and budgetary concerns. I am being 100% honest when I say that my 7th and 8th graders, in general, are much more respectful than the 5th and 6th graders I taught (and I had REALLY good students in those grades too). Like board-certified doctors and accountants, teachers who achieve National Board Certification meet rigorous standards through intensive study, expert evaluation, self-assessment and peer review. Asking students questions and paying close attention to their answers helps you adjust your instruction to suit students strengths and weaknesses and supports development of soft skills. I loved teaching those things when I taught fifth, but I just dont think it would ever be the same. Seriously though, I am already sad about my 8th graders that will be going to high school (6 months away) and SUPER grateful that I get to have 7th again next year. At first, I was kind of like, oh whatever. A: Im not going to sugarcoat this. Some of them are also artistic, meaning theyre creative, intuitive, sensitive, articulate, and expressive. It so is. I realized the power of this statement this year. During an average school day, teachers are spending: An average of almost five hours on instruction (in class and providing tutoring or extra academic support) Approximately 36 minutes on student supervision and discipline 45 minutes planning, preparing, or collaborating with colleagues 36 minutes grading, documenting, and analyzing student work Teaching, as you probably realize, is not easy. If students arent engaged, you may need to come up with a new activity on the spot to keep the pace and energy moving. Sometimes, during a busy time or stressful day, a simple "I love you Miss" or a doodle from a student on their free time, can instantly put a smile on my face. You're a creative person. If developing a relationship with one class sounds especially good to you and you'd enjoy the challenge of teaching all the subjects, becoming an elementary school teacher might be a good match for you. Students need certified teachersthose with a teaching degree-who are committed to engaging them in all areas relevant to today's world. First Grade Teachers - will use many hands-on learning approaches as well as discussion groups in their classroom. Third, they learn SUPER fast, and are SUPER independent (sometimes I feel useless in a good way though). Also see: Most profitable skills to learn in 2022. A: Gah! Q: What about the hormones? Highlight the weird, the unusual, the unique. Earn Your Degree. Its a lot, but what you put into it, you get out of it. Answer "Okay" if you . The College and Education Blog for Students. I have become a better teacher, but I also think we dont give 7th and 8th graders enough credit for the fact that they are young adults who really can make thoughtful decisions if you let them. Teachers have a wide array of tasks throughout their work day and one of the main skills required is knowing how to instruct others. Each student has a different personality, work ethic, and learning style than the next, so it's imperative that educators craft their methodology in a way that reaches all of their students. Depending on your location, youll need to spend a certain number of hours in this supervised environment, learning from an experience educator. I love to teach. Teaching in elementary schools can differ from teaching older grade levels, as these educators face unique challenges and rewards working with younger students. In an educational world driven by data and dictated by assessment, the art room is a space where hands-on life skills are still taught. Also (and not tooting my own horn I just know my strengths) I am super good at interviews. That's exactly the theme of this template! I questioned every decision I was making because there were safer options But I knew that this school was where I wanted to be It was the best thing that could have ever happened to me. Abbott Elementary is the first new comedy to have quadrupled its ratings since its December debut. I kind of come to life in them. They tend to be social individuals, which means theyre kind, generous, cooperative, patient, caring, helpful, empathetic, tactful, and friendly. In all seriousness though, interviews dont scare me, because I am myself, Im honest, and love teaching. Instructing. How do you know what and how to teach? A: They hired me! From research, curriculum development, special education and learning disability programs, to gifted student and accelerated learning programs, a doctorate focused on a specific area of elementary education can help you land a job shaping thousands of young minds instead of only those in a single classroom. A second grade teacher is responsible for further learning in the aforementioned core subjects, as well as continuing to shape each student's behaviour and emotional well-being. Some charter schools and rural districts can pay significantly less that that too. As an elementary school teacher, you'll aid children with their social, mental, physical and emotional development. Ultimately, you will work directly with students to ensure the success and . Job growth on pace with national average. Please understand that my second and third graders are great kids too, but I literally have zero behavior issues in my middle school English classes. Elementary school teachers need far more than the ability to teach times tables and grammar they need to have the mental and emotional qualities that make them great role models for their students. The core subjects of math, science, and english will form most of the day, with art, physical education, and music being taught throughout the work week as well. Many teachers with families can teach within the same school district, or even at the same school as their children. This gives you an enormous amount of flexibility. While an elementary education degree is certainly a bonus, a bachelors degree in just about any discipline can open the door to an elementary education job in many districts around the U.S. An elementary school teacher works in public or private schools, teaching students who range in age from five years old to 12 years old. In addition to the bachelors degree, all public-school teachers must earn their teaching certification or license. Some elementary schools also include grade six, while some private and rural public schools include seventh and eighth grades. During their schooling, teachers-in-training will learn skills to help them work with youngsters with different abilities and from a wide range of backgrounds. Use the guides and resources exactly as is or as inspiration for you own! The more elementary education you get, the better your chances are of getting a raise or a promotion. Your job will require you to interact with other teachers, administration and parents. Consider if you have the following qualities, which are necessary for an effective and rewarding elementary school education. It is hard for different reasons in every grade, but it is ALL HARD. This career demands communication, patience, creativity, and energy, Patience, communication skills, problem solving, and the ability to motivate these young children to learn are all very important skills needed. As such, a teacher will need strong communication skills as well as the ability to be patient and understanding with students of each level. Good teachers are passionate about teaching and want to encourage students to achieve their goals. Essential Skills/Duties. Elementary Education Teacher If they have a question, I dont make them feel stupid. District, state and national-level jobs abound for those with doctorates in one of the many education specialties. Those with knowledge of special needs or teaching English as a second language (TESOL) are in especially high demand among the many elementary teacher job openings. We are all on a team to help send our kids into the world, and if we could stop having a divide between what elementary teachers need to do and what secondary teachers need to do, and what degree you need, then the world would be a better place. Im a Middle School ELA teacher committed to helping you improve your teaching & implement systems that help you get everything done during the school day! A: This was 164% my biggest concern and fear of going from self-contained to middle school. In a majority of school districts, an associates degree is all that is necessary to step in and start assisting elementary teachers in a variety of ways. But as someone who has been on both sides of the fence, I just want to say that all teaching is hard. Love being a high school teacher and make crazy . Students at this stage are far more likely to notice inconsistencies in expectations and rules; therefore teachers need to be firm and focused, as well as fair and encouraging. Holding small group or 1:1 lessons and conferencing is also a great way to build relationships with students. Hi! When video games and trends are your competition, it's crucial! Explain new concepts. Fortunately, you can use many strategies to create a learning environment that engages students and ignites their intellectual curiosity. I am not putting ALL secondary teachers in this category, because on this crazy journey, I have seen and met some of the most amazing secondary English teachers (TPT has the best of the best on there). 3. Take a look at 2021 BLS salary data below: Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2021 median salary; projected job growth through 2031. Elementary school teachers are supposed to teach the kids what they need to know in the future. All Star Directories, Inc. All Rights Reserved. I actually applied to teach kindergarten at my current school (simply because I wanted to get out of my previous school and my current school was my dream school in my new town), and was instead offered 7th and 8th grade English. Overall, all teachers need to be able to stay calm under stressful situations, as no day in the classroom will go as predicted. They can also be found working as after school play and tutoring program coordinators, computer technology resource personnel, natural resource and environmental education program leads, and arts and music program assistants. Fun in Fourth Angela teaches fourth-grade in British Columbia, Canada. ha! A key component to being an elementary teacher is devoting your efforts to childrens mental and emotional development, as well as their ability to socialize with others. So simply getting a non-education bachelors degree is all you need to start your teaching career in many instances. Certification and licensing requirements for elementary teachers vary from state to state. ESL teacher ESL, or English as a second language, is a popular field in the U.S. Teachers who are qualified to teach speakers of other languages help these learners better understand English so they can learn their subject matter more easily. HA! I actually kind of love having a middle school team. Learning is the most fun when it's surprising. I seriously want to do a study on this, but in the meantime, look at your Facebook feed. With each new bunch of students will come 20, 30, or even 40 new personalities. We dont see eye-to-eye on most things, but in a good way. For example, make a list of ways to show respect for othersand explain the related rewards and consequences. Here are just a few: Incorporating unique activities into the daily routine helps students to find learning enjoyable rather than a chore. Elementary teaching involves being entrusted with children at a very vulnerable stage of their development, which is why we picture teachers as exceptionally sensitive people. And, of course, you want your students to love coming to school. I love reading novels aloud. An Elementary School Teacher's responsibilities include managing a classroom, communicating and teaching one or more subjects clearly and within the bounds of school procedures. Being an Elementary School Teacher was a dream of mine, but I had no idea how difficult being an elementary school teacher would be until I got my first teaching job. Additionally, elementary school teachers have to deal with a lot of paperwork and administrative tasks. And I dont care that they see my ignorance, because they also see how I learn new information as well. Remember, its not just kids youre working with. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Great info blog for students, Thanks and I especially enjoyed the qualities for Elementary School Teachsers here, Hi, I am a parent and just made my first experience with teachers for my little boy. Q: Is is hard going from having 24 students all day (about 6-7 hours) to having each class for 55 minutes? This career demands communication, patience, creativity, and energy. An elementary school teacher performs a variety of tasks during their workday. This is a big pro due to making it easier to have them engaged in your lessons. Your students WANT to be in your room. 12. They get to wake up every day and motivate, educate, and even have fun with their students. Relationships are one of the three best reasons for being a teacher. At the same time, you want students to look forward to entering the classroom each day. Take our career test and find your match with over 800 careers. So basically I am an English teacher, without any type of English degree (its better that way, in my personal opinion.. but Ill get to that). Q: Do you really like it more than elementary? I LOVED fifth grade so freaking much. [11] Institute of Education Sciences. Program outcomes vary according to each institution's specific curriculum and employment opportunities are not guaranteed. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), over 1.5 million teachers held jobs in public and private elementary schools across the U.S. as of 2020. Lastly, Im a middle schooler trapped in an adults body. They are responsible for the educational and emotional growth of children in a classroom setting, as well as managing the materials and resources used for educating them. Does this sound like you? Read on for more details about the qualifications for elementary school teachers, and review the job outlook and salary potential. This includes decorating it to make it engaging and comfortable for your specific students. That also was factored in. There are some states that require teachers to earn a masters degree after their teaching certification, so its important to check the requirements of your state. In addition to math, reading, and english, students now move into the studies of social studies, science, and a higher level of physical education, art, and music. A state-issued teaching certificate or license is generally required to become an elementary teacher. Growth doesnt come from your comfort zone, so step outside it. Elementary school teachers had a higher percentage of workers who belonged to a union, compared with workers in all other occupations, according the BLS. Young people thrive on consistent schedules, so be sure to implement one in your classroom that encompasses academic subjects, arts, exercise, and quiet timeand remind them that youre here to help them along the way. Pro #1: Kids Enjoy Coming to School Being an elementary teacher means many students are young enough to enjoy coming to school. Is that a real thing in middle school? And, of course, you want your students to, Its a lot, but what you put into it, you get out of it. Is being an elementary school teacher hard? Teachers at this level need to be firm, but kind. They arent as big as I thought. With 33-years' experience being in elementary classrooms, Monica has figured it out. Elementary school teachers need to be aware of how young people develop emotionally and intellectually, as well as physically. I have to Google certain grammar rules, because I literally have no freaking clue. You'll also develop lesson plans and evaluate students' performance. Otherwise, you would not be considering teaching. However, if youre working on a year-round school schedule, it will require 8 weeks in a row with a one-week break in between. Even if some never tell you they care or you find their graded essay in the trash they still care). While they dont teach just one subject, some states require teachers to pass a content area test to gain certification. First of all, I am a Millenial, I guess, and I feel like I am right in the middle of the old and the new, so I think I have a pretty good perspective on this but that statement is SO not true. Most people would be surprised at how little education has to do with teaching kids and how much more it has to do with politics. Elementary teaching involves being entrusted with children at a very vulnerable stage of their development, which is why we picture teachers as exceptionally sensitive people. A: No. Not only that, a positive attitude rubs off on their students, so no child ever has to feel like they cant do something. 3 Elementary School Teacher Work Experience Section Examples. Grade-level or subject-specific teacher The traditional route is sticking with one or a few grades to teach. Asking students questions and paying close attention to their answers helps you adjust your instruction to suit students strengths and weaknesses and supports development of, Experiment with instructional methods such as, , whether that involves students working quietly on their own or hands-on activity, Campaign for Trauma-Informed Policy and Practice (CTIPP), Tips for Teachers and Classroom Resources, Advice for Making Elementary School Reading Logs, Teacher Techniques: Scaffolding Elementary Education, Top 5 Elementary School Models in America, Advice on Improving your Elementary Math Instruction, Elementary School Teacher: Salary, Job Description, and Educational Requirements, Early Childhood and Elementary (Grades: PreK-5). Our society does not give much acclaim to the sacrifices teachers do, these scenarios should be reversed. Posted classroom rules are an effective visual aid for students to remember how they should behave in class. Some children can be very disruptive and it can be hard to keep them under control. In this career quiz, there are 10 questions that will give you a pretty good perspective on whether the career of an Elementary School Teacher is right for you. Fourth Grade Teachers - are responsible for all the core learning subjects, though at this point the job becomes more complicated as students have matured and need a strong, intuitive teacher that possesses excellent communication skills and is capable of guiding students effectively. Theyre not always going to understand right away, and theyre not always going to listen right away. More than 1 in 5 teachers in 2011 was under the age of 30, and the proportion of teachers 50 and older dropped from 42% in 2005 to 31% in 2011. So it's no surprise that the average elementary school teacher works far beyond the typical 8-3 days. If you hope to, or already have a family, choosing to earn a BA in Elementary Education is an excellent fit for flexibility. I cant explain it. Keep their perspectives in mind when planning or participating in discussions and activities. Elementary school teachers have distinct personalities. I still read all our required novels aloud, because I know that the whole class novel is not best practice. When we think of an elementary school teacher, we imagine a warm, compassionate individual who can be there for kids when their parents cant be. Americans think of young children as "innocent" and "asexual," so sexuality is considered unmentionable in elementary classrooms. That always comes through in the interviews and that was the case here. I think about how much I dont know and realize, they probably really dont know, so I HAVE to teach them. Fourth, they play sports and do activities through the school, so I actually get to see them as humans outside of class (and trust me, they LOVE when their teachers come. Should I get a New Textbook or Second Hand Textbook? 2. Understanding how all these factors affect learning is an important part of elementary school teaching. Its important for children to feel that their teacher cares about them individually for obvious reasons. Organization Being organized doesnt just help you with lessons and grading, it also helps your students learn better and helps parents or substitute teachers stay in the know. The show has become an internet sensation and is lauded by critics. Being an elementary school teacher can be so rewarding! I mean, I really have never taught a kid to read (Disclaimer: If I have a struggling reader, I do go back to the basics to help them, but its not really my strength or love). That means you'll earn somewhere around $60,000 annually. I like talking about myself :). Being an elementary. Then when my life just kind of did its thing and I realized what I was giving-up to teach real middle school (and I would definitely not be self-contained in any way) I was honestly kind of sad about all the things I would be losing.. Getting to know each student is necessary to offer a solid learning experience to each one. Your primary goal as an elementary school teacher would be introducing young students to basic concepts in science, math, social studies and language. They must also monitor each student's progress and provide extra mentorship as needed. Physicalstamina Whether its standing in front of the classroom or running after kids on the playground, youll need to be able to be on your feet for hours on end. 6. By getting to know everyone in your classroom, youll be better equipped to teach to students strengths, identify and intervene on problems early, and find a balance for the different learning styles and personalities in the class. Gain relevant experience. There is food everywhere, all the time, because they are always starving. They know I like them. They do get taller, they do get more emotional, and some of my boys have such deep voices that they are only allowed to whisper when they talk or they make my whole classroom vibrate if the acoustics are right (I am seriously not exaggerating I had to move one boy from the corner area of my room because his deep voice traveled up the walls and made the room vibrate). Based on this estimate, 95% of teachers fall somewhere in between those two groups. That is a bunch of BS. Manage classroom. They are responsible for the educational and emotional growth of children in a classroom setting, as well as managing the materials and resources used for educating them. Some private schools, certain parochial, or faith-based schools have their own requirements for elementary faculty. Career: 1 years of experience, currently based in New York, male. Youre required to produce results for your district and are perhaps even evaluated based on those statistical results and data analysis. With more access to education, student enrollment is expected to increase over time, but employment growth varies by region. Be able to collaborate with other teachers. Teachers are likely to feel under a lot of pressure. I kind of just wanted to say, No and leave it at that, but I will elaborate :). Ha! Instead of thinking of yourself as a spoiler, find ways to help them explore their creativity and leaps of logic in healthy ways. Something to keep in mind when considering your potential elementary salary is the fact that,on average, teachers get over 12 weeks of vacation per year. Adapt lessons. Your elementary school teacher work experience section outlines your professional past and shows the impact your work has had on the success of past employers and students. Sense of Purpose. I love doing book clubs with books I actually like reading too. To teach in public elementary schools, you'll need a bachelor's degree and state licensure. These courses allow them to be prepared for teaching children with varying abilities, backgrounds and needs. Don't just disseminate information; cloak it in mystery. National Board certified elementary teachers with a masters degree can expect much more impressive compensation packages than beginner teachers with minimal education. You get so many free hugs! 8. Some areas are currently experiencing a teacher shortage-especially in the subject areas of math, science, Spanish and special education-so districts with those teaching needs offer special teacher perks such as signing bonuses, housing assistance, continuing education classes and even free at-school child care to attract and retain quality teachers. Take our free career test to find out if elementary school teacher is one of your top career matches. A: Sometimes I still even ask myself this, but honestly, I dont think so. Spend time in a school or related setting with children to build your skills and to confirm that teaching is the right path for you. I truly think I am WAY better off having a teaching degree, as opposed to an English degree. This type of teacher will require the ability to create an engaging environment, nurturing the children's natural curiosity and encouraging them to learn on their own as well. As a teacher, it is so rewarding to go to work and be surrounded by love all around me! Many people absolutely love the profession. The Hungry Teacher Website by KristenDoyle.co Contact Martina. And keep in mind, you will need a good relationship with the principal and other teachers at your school, because those are the people who will be there to help you when you get in over your head. But there is not one single age group that is the worst. Being an Elementary School Teacher: Real-World Tips and Stories from Working Teachers - Free download as PDF File (.pdf), Text File (.txt) or read online for free. Namely, core subjects and 21st . The average salary for this profession is right around the national median for income each year. Creativity Keeping kids engaged can be tough, so consider if you can be creative. The elementary level is no exception to this, as the students at this level are much more dependent on you. Why would I switch? I also literally had to Google, What is a rhetorical analysis? despite the fact that I took, Advanced Composition and Rhetoric in college. If you're considering a career in early childhood education (ECE), it never hurts to hear what people who work in this field love about their jobs. Then I taught sixth and thought I could never go back to fifth, though I REALLY wanted to do sixth self-contained. My ELA scope and sequence guides break down every single middle school ELA standard and concept for reading, writing, and language in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade. However, those two groups only combine to represent an estimated 5% of all teachers. They are able to focus on the wonderful rewards they get from their job, which are many. Elementary school teachers are trained to educate children from kindergarten through fifth grade. Be able to handle kids. A fourth grade teacher will need a wealth of patience, energy, and creativity to hold the attention of their class. Also, working with children is exhausting because they have a lot of energy and you need to be on your game . If youre entering education from another field, a masters degree in education, nutrition, special education, computer technologies, curriculum development, or counseling and family services can push your resume-and teacher salary-to the top of the stack for many elementary education jobs. You might use games, art, music, rhymes and other props to make learning fun and to encourage memorization. This could include volunteering at a school or community recreation center, becoming a mentor or shadowing a . Ask questions. Anticipate, model, and explain behavioral norms before negative incidents occur. I am also getting my masters in K-12 literacy. Kids these days cant write. A bachelor's degree in elementary education is required for public school teachers, and as indicated above, some states require teachers to have a major in their topic area. Its the real deal. Its important to keep in mind that teachers should be able to play an authoritarian role to provide structure and safety for everyone. A: Probably other elementary teachers, but I get a good dose of that by just going to the elementary school. Be creative. These are perfect for the awkward few minutes right before the bell rings. What does an Elementary School Teacher do? To up your game even more, here are a few tips and strategies. Communication This applies to giving your lessons and to daily conversations you have with your students. But, in general, I think about myself in middle school and remember I just wanted to be treated like a normal human being, be recognized for what I could do well, and not be treated like some stupid 13 year old. They have to be trying to be disrespectful to do it, and if you make expectations clear, its second nature for them to be respectful. But a dash of perseverance and leadership qualities? In addition, a child's character development is also a crucial component of this time period. And if youre reading this, wed venture to guess that youre already doing an incredible job. Preparing youth for their future education means more than teaching them standard school subjects. It's also more enjoyable teaching someone that wants to be there than it is for students that can't wait to leave. Teachers with a masters degree are eligible to become National Board Certified Elementary Education Teachers. Work with diverse backgrounds. There are fun projects too, now and then, projects that the teachers come up with that are meant to benefit the entire school: . Try a math filler. I will be honest, and say it does take a little bit longer to get to know your students, but in general, the relationships are most definitely there. 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