What You Need to Become an Elementary Teacher

Elementary teachers must be licensed by their state.

Elementary school teachers may teach kindergarten through eighth grade. The minimum education requirement to become an elementary teacher is a bachelor's degree and the completion of an approved teacher-training program. Prospective candidates seeking a career in elementary teaching can earn their credentials in multiple subjects or by specializing in language arts, reading or bilingual education. Candidates seeking advanced training in elementary education can enroll into a Master of Arts program.

Bachelor's Degree

Prospective students should enroll in bachelor's degree programs that are accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education. Course offerings for a bachelor's program in elementary education include foundations of education, introduction to education of exceptional children, methods and materials for teaching science in elementary schools and educational psychology. Depending on the program, some schools provide training to teach multicultural students or students with behavioral problems.

Master of Arts Degree

Students seeking advanced degrees in education can enroll in a Master of Arts program and specialize in curriculum and instruction, reading and language arts or multiple subject teaching. Students who complete a multiple subject teaching graduate course can teach several subjects to the same group of elementary students. A Multiple Subject Teaching credential also allows an instructor to teach core courses to middle school students, including language arts, social science and math. Graduate education students can earn the Literacy Across the Curriculum credential by specializing in reading and language arts for elementary school. Individuals with a Literacy Across the Curriculum credential specialize in reading and language arts instruction.

Certification and Licensure

Public school teachers must be licensed to teach in their state. Each state's board of education awards teaching certificates to eligible candidates. Teachers must satisfy specific state licensing requirements to teach elementary, middle school or high school. Prospective candidates must demonstrate their competency by taking reading, writing and math tests. Some teachers may also be required to demonstrate their competency in specific subject areas. Candidates who satisfy their state licensing requirements must maintain their credentials by taking continuing education and professional development courses throughout the course of their careers.

Considerations

Licensed elementary teachers can teach in different states through a reciprocity agreement. Non-education majors who already hold a bachelor's degree can become elementary school teachers by enrolling in an accredited alternative certification program. Alternative certification programs are ideal for career changers and professionals who wish to enter the education field. Individuals who are bilingual or who have a strong background in math or science related fields are ideal candidates for alternative certification programs. In addition to having an academic degree, elementary teachers should have strong communication skills and enjoy working with children.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Teachers-Kindergarten, Elementary, Middle and Secondary
• San Jose State University: Programs
• University of The District of Columbia: BA in Elementary Education