The elementary education program has specific general education and program requirements that prepare a student to transfer successfully to a four-year university’s elementary education licensure program.
“I want to teach because I’m from Haiti where we don’t go to school until age 7, 8, or 9. Sometimes we don’t get to go to school at all. We have to work. I was in an orphanage where I helped others, including my brother, learn. I want everyone to be able to go to school for free. I want them all to get an education. Kids inspire me and make me smile!”
- Jean Paul Gaspard
Jean Paul volunteers at Haxtun Preschool and wants to teach elementary school or preschool.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment of kindergarten and elementary school teachers is projected to grow 4 percent from 2021 to 2031, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
About 120,300 openings for kindergarten and elementary school teachers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
Despite expected increases in enrollment in public schools, employment growth for kindergarten and elementary school teachers will depend on state and local government budgets. If state and local governments experience budget deficits, they may lay off employees, including teachers. As a result, employment growth of public kindergarten and elementary school teachers may be somewhat reduced.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics lists median annual wage for elementary school teachers, except special education was $61,400 in May 2021. The median annual wage for kindergarten teachers, except special education was $60,900 in May 2021.
