- Almost every elementary school has a principal assigned to the building. Principals are responsible for making everyday decisions regarding students, facilities and staff. Generally, principals must have teaching experience and specialized certification.
- Teachers must have a minimum of a bachelor's degree and license through the state in which they teach. Teachers are hired for all grades in an elementary school--generally kindergarten through fifth grades, with some schools hiring for preschool and sixth through eight grades. Teachers with endorsements in all grades, such as music, physical education and art, may teach in one school or rotate through several schools in the district.
- Special-education teachers receive specialized training in teaching students with learning disabilities, autism, developmental disabilities and other special needs. According to the "2008-09 Occupational Outlook Handbook," job prospects for special education teachers are excellent.
- Teacher assistants, or paraprofessionals, are usually hired for lower-elementary and special-education classrooms. Assistants work with teachers on curriculum, classroom management and lesson , and often have other duties such as monitoring hallways or lunchrooms.
- Every elementary school has general support positions such as secretaries, custodians, food service and transportation. These positions may not require any type of degree or training, but requirements vary by school district.
- States have different education and testing requirements for principals, teachers and teacher assistants. Check with your local college's education department or the your state's department of education to review specific requirements for your state.
