Education & Care
How to become an Elementary School Teacher
From teacher assistant: every step, how long it takes, and the credential it earns.
- Time to get there
- 2–4 years
- Typical pay
- $48k–$68k
- Starting from
- Teacher assistant
Pay is an estimate of typical US entry-level pay for this role and varies by state, employer and shift. The timeline assumes you are starting from teacher assistant and includes any licence or programme legally required, not just course length.
See elementary school teacher jobs open nowThe route
Get a bachelor's degree
Any subject, if you then take an approved preparation route.
Complete a teacher preparation program
Traditional, or an alternative certification route if you already hold a degree.
Course that covers thisTeaching Assistant with Special Education & Phonics CourseUdemy · around $24.99Pass your state's licensure exams
Usually a basic skills test plus an elementary content exam.
State teaching licence
Complete student teaching
A full unpaid placement in most states. Budget for it before you start.
Get hired and survive year one
Said plainly: the first year is the hardest. Ask about mentoring before you accept a post.
- Browse jobs now
Destination
Elementary School Teacher
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