What does an elementary school teacher do? Duties, pay, education and outlook

Elementary school teachers plan lessons and teach young students core subjects such as reading, science and math, while kindergarten teachers introduce children to school. Public school teachers typically need a bachelor's degree and a state license or certification for the grade level they teach, and private schools usually ask for the same degree.

At a glance

What does an elementary school teacher do?

The Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH) lists these duties:

• Create lesson plans to teach students subjects such as reading, science and math.
• Teach students how to interact with others.
• Observe students to evaluate their abilities, strengths and weaknesses.
• Instruct an entire class or smaller groups of students.
• Grade students' assignments.
• Communicate with parents or guardians about their child's progress.
• Work with students individually to help them overcome specific learning challenges.
• Prepare students for standardized tests required by the state.
• Develop and enforce classroom rules.
• Supervise children outside the classroom, for example at lunchtime or recess.

Work environment

Local elementary and secondary schools employ 84 percent of elementary school teachers and 81 percent of kindergarten teachers, and private schools employ 14 percent and 16 percent. Teachers generally work school hours and then grade papers and prepare lessons in the evenings and on weekends. Many follow a 10-month school year with a summer break, and some districts run year-round calendars. The OOH notes that teaching can be rewarding but also stressful, especially with large classes or limited supplies.

Education, training and licensing

• Education: Public school teachers typically need a bachelor's degree in elementary education. Some states also require a content-area major, such as mathematics.
• Other degrees: People with a bachelor's degree in another subject can become elementary teachers by completing a teacher education program. Requirements vary by state.
• Licensing: All states require public school teachers to be licensed or certified for the grade level they teach. Private school teachers typically do not need a license. Typical requirements include a bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA, student teaching, a background check, a general teaching certification test and a subject knowledge test.
• Alternative routes: All states offer alternative certification for people with a bachelor's degree who lack education coursework.
• Keeping the license: Teachers often must complete professional development, and some states require a master's degree after certification and hiring.

Skills that matter

The OOH names communication skills, patience, physical stamina and resourcefulness. O*NET lists the skills, knowledge and work activities for this occupation, which is useful when you tailor a resume.

How much do elementary school teachers make?

BLS reports a median annual wage of $63,820 per year for the combined profile (May 2025). Elementary school teachers, except special education, had a median of $63,970, with the lowest 10 percent earning less than $47,960 and the highest 10 percent earning more than $104,340. Kindergarten teachers, except special education, had a median of $62,680, with the lowest 10 percent earning less than $46,990 and the highest 10 percent earning more than $101,830. School district salary schedules differ, so check each district's published schedule.

Job outlook

BLS projects little or no change in employment from 2025 to 2035 (0 percent, a loss of 6,100 jobs). Even so, about 99,400 openings are projected each year on average over the decade, mostly from teachers who retire or move to other occupations.

How to get hired

1. Confirm your state's route. Ask your state education agency which degree, tests and student teaching it requires for the grade level you want, and whether an alternative certification route fits you.
2. Complete student teaching. It is part of teacher education programs and is the experience districts look at first.
3. Write a classroom-focused resume. Show lesson planning, assessment and family communication. Our ATS resume guide explains how to make it readable by hiring software.
4. Practice your interview. Prepare examples of lessons you have planned and how you handled classroom situations. Use our interview prep tools to rehearse.
5. Search steadily. Use our find a job fast routine and search jobs on LiveRec.

Related occupations

Career and technical education teachers; childcare workers; high school teachers; middle school teachers; preschool teachers; special education teachers; teacher assistants; school and career counselors.

Frequently asked questions

Do elementary school teachers need a license? All states require public school teachers to be licensed or certified for the grade level they teach. Private school teachers typically do not need one.

What degree do you need to teach elementary school? A bachelor's degree, typically in elementary education. Holders of other degrees can complete a teacher education program.

Can I become a teacher without an education degree? All states offer alternative certification for people with a bachelor's degree who lack education coursework.

Is elementary teaching in demand? BLS projects little or no change in employment from 2025 to 2035, with about 99,400 openings a year.

Sources

• BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook, Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/kindergarten-and-elementary-school-teachers.htm (accessed 31 October 2026)
• BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics: https://www.bls.gov/oes/ (accessed 31 October 2026)
• O*NET OnLine, Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education (25-2021.00): https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/25-2021.00 (accessed 31 October 2026)

This is general information, not legal, tax or immigration advice. Rules change and your situation may differ. Consult a licensed attorney or qualified adviser.