Teaching is a meaningful and rewarding job where you help shape the future by working closely with young students. It is a respected and well-paid profession across the globe. In the United States, elementary teachers earn an average annual salary of USD 57,967.
While teaching offers good pay and recognition, it comes with challenges that require essential skills such as strong communication, patience, empathy, and creativity. Understanding and developing the key qualities of a good teacher can help you succeed in this career. Certifications play a crucial part in this journey, helping educators polish their skills required for teaching young children.
In this blog, we explore the steps on how to become an elementary teacher and highlight the various certifications that support teaching professionals to grow in their profession.
Take your skills to the next level — Explore Doctor of Education in K-12 Educational Leadership Online
Steps to Become an Elementary Teacher or Middle School Educator
Elementary school teachers play a crucial role in helping young children learn essential subjects, such as Math, English, and Science, while also shaping their minds. It is a rewarding job as you can make a profound impact on your students’ lives. Knowing all about how to become an elementary school teacher can help you decide if this career is the right fit for you.
Here are the prerequisites for an elementary education career:
Complete a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education
Most elementary or middle school teachers start their journey by completing a bachelor’s degree after their 10+2. You can major in Education or any other subject of your interest, such as Math, English, or Science.
Acquire Experience
Gain hands-on experience in teaching and classroom management strategies for elementary students in a real classroom under supervision.
Pass the Required Exam or Licensing Test
To become an elementary or middle school teacher, you also have to clear the state-specific tests or licensing exams, depending on the requirements of the country/location where you want to apply for a job.
Apply for Teaching Jobs
After passing the licensing exam, you can apply for teaching jobs in elementary schools in your preferred location across private and public-run primary schools. You can also apply for other careers like curriculum designer, assistant principal, or working with education consultancies.
Gain Classroom Experience and Continue Professional Development
Getting hands-on experience in the classroom is a key part of becoming a successful elementary school teacher. This can be gained through interning as assistant teachers or volunteering to build confidence and practical skills. It is equally significant to keep learning through workshops, certifications, or advanced degrees.
Also Read: Top Career Paths for Graduates with an Ed.D. in K–12 Educational Leadership
Key Skills and Qualities of Successful Teachers
- Communication Skills: As an elementary school teacher, you need to explain challenging topics in a way that young kids can easily understand. You also talk to parents often to share updates about their children. Effective communication skills enable you to teach better and foster strong connections.
- Organizational Skills: Elementary school teachers manage multiple responsibilities, including planning lessons, grading assignments, and communicating with parents. That’s why good managerial skills are so critical. They help you stay on top of tasks, manage your time well, and keep the classroom running smoothly.
- Patience and Empathy: Working with young children requires a great deal of patience. Every student learns differently, and some may need more time or additional support. Being patient and understanding helps you connect with them, support their needs, and create a positive classroom environment.
- Creativity: Keeping young, energetic students focused in the classroom can be a real challenge for elementary teachers. That’s where creativity comes in. With creative skills, teachers can design fun, interactive lessons that spark curiosity and keep students engaged. It’s all about finding fresh, exciting ways to make learning enjoyable and meaningful.
Also Read: Doctor of Education (Ed.D) vs. PhD in Education
Advance Your Teaching Career with Edgewood University’s Education Programs
Explore Elementary Teacher Certifications at Edgewood University to take your teaching career to the next level. Explicitly designed for Elementary or Middle School Teachers, the flexible online elementary education degree helps you strengthen your instructional skills, classroom leadership, and understanding of child development. With affordable tuition fees and several other benefits, it is an ideal choice for educators looking to deepen their expertise, meet licensure requirements, or transition into specialized roles in elementary education.
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FAQs on How to Become a Certified Elementary or Middle School Teacher
Q: What degree is required to become an elementary or middle school teacher?
Ans: To become an elementary or middle school teacher, you generally need a bachelor’s degree and pass state-specific tests or licensing exams, depending on the requirements of the country where you want to apply for a job.
Q: How long does it take to get certified as a teacher?
Ans: The traditional path to becoming a certified elementary teacher typically takes up to 4 years or more and often requires earning a bachelor’s degree and passing a licensing exam.
Q: How much do elementary and middle school teachers earn?
Ans: Elementary teachers in the United States can earn an average annual salary of USD 57,967, whereas middle school teachers are paid an average yearly salary of USD 63,454.
Q: Can I transition into teaching from another career?
Ans: Yes, you can definitely switch to teaching from another career. Many people do it successfully. Your past work experience can be a significant asset in the classroom, providing real-life examples and a fresh perspective to share with students.
Q: Can I start teaching before I complete my licensure?
Ans: In most cases, you need a valid teaching license to teach in a public school. But in some situations, like special programs or high-demand subjects, you might be allowed to start your teaching job while earning your license.
