Instructional
Elementary School Teacher (Grades 1-5)
Teaches core subjects to elementary students in grades 1-5
- Pay range
- $38,000–$78,000
- Median
- $54,000
- Education
- Bachelor's degree
- Job outlook
- Stable
What you'll do
- Develop and implement lesson plans for all core subjects
- Assess student progress and adapt instruction
- Manage classroom behavior and create positive environment
- Communicate with parents about student progress
- Differentiate instruction for diverse learners
- Collaborate with grade-level team and specialists
A typical day
- Morning meeting and classroom routines
- Language arts block (reading, writing, grammar)
- Mathematics instruction and practice
- Science and social studies lessons
- Specials (art, music, PE, library)
- Small group interventions
- Planning and grading during prep period
Education & certification path
- Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education
- Complete student teaching practicum
- Pass state teacher certification exams
- Pursue master's degree for salary advancement
Required certifications
- State elementary teaching license (K-6 or 1-8)
- Subject area endorsements may be required
- CPR and First Aid certification
Career progression
- Student Teacher → Elementary Teacher
- Grade Level Lead Teacher
- Department Chair or Specialist
- Instructional Coach → Administrator
Where and when you'll work
- Work environment
- Self-contained classroom with 20-30 students, teaching multiple subjects
- Typical schedule
- 7:30 AM - 3:30 PM school days, evening/weekend prep