Steps to Become an Elementary School Teacher

July 2, 2024

Unveiling the path to becoming an elementary school teacher. Discover the essential steps and requirements for your teaching journey.

Steps to Become an Elementary School Teacher

Becoming an elementary school teacher is a rewarding career path that requires several important steps. These steps include obtaining a bachelor's degree and completing a teacher preparation program, as well as passing certification exams and obtaining licensure.

Bachelor's Degree and Teacher Preparation Program

The first step towards becoming an elementary school teacher is earning a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution of higher learning. A bachelor's degree program in elementary education typically provides students with the necessary coursework and curriculum required by the state department of education for teacher preparation. Students may choose a bachelor's degree program that specifically enables them to earn elementary teacher certification.

If a student has already earned a bachelor's degree in a non-education subject, they can enroll in a post-bachelor's teacher certification program. This program allows them to complete the specific courses required by the state for teacher certification.

Certification Exams and Licensure

Once a student has completed the required courses for teacher certification, they can proceed to the next step, which is applying for a teaching license. This process typically involves passing certification exams specific to the subject area the student wishes to teach.

In some states, such as Pennsylvania, students are required to pass a Praxis examination for the subject area they plan to teach. The Praxis exam assesses the student's knowledge of the concepts they will be teaching. If a student does not pass the exam on their first attempt, they have the opportunity to retake it. Once a student successfully passes the exam, they will be granted a teaching license.

In cases where a student does not pass the certification exam, they may be eligible to apply for an emergency teaching license. This temporary license provides the student with additional time to pass the exam while allowing them to begin teaching. The approval of the school, school district, and state department of education is typically required for an emergency teaching license.

It's important to note that the specific requirements for certification exams and licensure may vary by state. Students should consult their state's department of education for detailed information on the process.

By completing these steps, aspiring elementary school teachers can lay the foundation for a successful career in education. It's important to keep in mind that additional requirements, such as continuing education and obtaining a master's degree, may be necessary depending on the state and individual career goals. Salaries for elementary school teachers also vary depending on factors such as experience, education level, and the type of school.

Position Average Annual Salary

  • Elementary School Teacher: $41,541 to $88,299
  • Average Salary: $63,220

Salary information courtesy of Drexel University School of Education.

Virginia Teaching License Process

Becoming an elementary school teacher in Virginia involves following a specific process to obtain the necessary teaching license. This section will outline two important steps in the Virginia teaching license process: the Virginia Communication and Literacy Assessment (VCLA) and the Collegiate Professional License.

Virginia Communication and Literacy Assessment

Aspiring teachers in Virginia are required to pass the Virginia Communication and Literacy Assessment (VCLA) as part of the licensure requirements. This assessment evaluates an individual's reading and writing skills, ensuring they possess the necessary communication abilities to effectively teach students. The VCLA is particularly important for those pursuing endorsements in Elementary and Special Education, as it includes the Reading Assessment as well.

Collegiate Professional License

Upon satisfying all licensure requirements to teach in Virginia, individuals are granted a Collegiate Professional License. This license is renewable every five years, providing teachers with the necessary credentials to work in elementary schools in the state. It is important to note that completing a graduate degree may make individuals eligible for a Postgraduate Professional License.

To become a licensed teacher in Virginia, individuals must meet certain qualifications, including holding a minimum of a bachelor's degree from an accredited program, completing field experience, and serving as a supervised student teacher before licensure [3]. Additionally, aspiring teachers are required to pass a series of certification exams, which may vary depending on their specialty. These exams assess the individual's knowledge and proficiency in their chosen subject area. Upon successful completion of the exams, a ten-year renewable teaching license is granted.

When applying for a Virginia teaching license, individuals must submit their transcripts, test scores, fingerprint cards, and other relevant information. There is an application fee of $100 for in-state applicants and $150 for out-of-state applicants [3].

By successfully completing the Virginia Communication and Literacy Assessment (VCLA) and obtaining the Collegiate Professional License, aspiring elementary school teachers in Virginia can fulfill the necessary requirements to start their teaching careers in the state. These steps ensure that teachers have the essential skills and credentials needed to provide quality education to their students.

Job Outlook and Salary for Elementary Teachers

For those considering a career as an elementary school teacher, it's essential to understand the job outlook and salary expectations within the field.

Average Annual Job Openings

In Virginia, the job market for elementary school teachers is expected to grow by 7% from 2020 to 2030, which is about as fast as the growth rate for all occupations. Teacher shortages in many parts of the country highlight the importance of qualified teachers.

According to estimates from Teacher Certification Degrees, the average annual job openings for teachers in Virginia through 2026 are as follows:

Number of Job Openings Per Year

  • Elementary School Teachers: 2,950
  • Middle School Teachers: 1,350
  • Secondary School Teachers: 2,110

Average Annual Salaries by Position

Salary levels for elementary school teachers can vary depending on several factors, including years of experience, education level, and type of school. The median annual salary for elementary school teachers is approximately $47,731, with salaries anticipated to increase with more experience and education.

According to salary data from Drexel University School of Education, as of June 29, 2023, elementary school teacher salaries in the United States range from $41,541 per year to $88,299 per year, with an average salary of $63,220 per year.

It's important to note that specific salary figures can vary depending on the geographic location, cost of living, and other factors. Prospective teachers should research salary ranges specific to their desired location and take into consideration potential salary increases with experience and additional education.

Understanding the job outlook and salary expectations can help individuals make informed decisions about pursuing a career as an elementary school teacher. With the anticipated growth in the field and the importance of qualified educators, this profession offers both job opportunities and the chance to make a positive impact on young learners' lives.

Initial Requirements for Virginia Teacher Certification

Becoming a licensed elementary school teacher in Virginia involves fulfilling specific initial requirements. These requirements ensure that aspiring teachers meet the necessary qualifications and undergo proper screening processes.

Fingerprint/Background Check

As part of the Virginia teacher certification process, applicants must undergo a fingerprint and background check. This check helps ensure the safety and well-being of students in the school system. It involves providing fingerprints and other relevant information to facilitate a comprehensive background investigation. This step is crucial in maintaining a secure learning environment for all students.

Licensing Application Process

The licensing application process is a fundamental step towards obtaining a teaching license in Virginia. Applicants must complete the necessary forms and submit them to the Virginia Department of Education. The application requires the inclusion of essential documents, such as transcripts, test scores, and fingerprint cards, as well as any other relevant information.

The application process typically involves providing proof of completion of a bachelor's degree from an accredited program, fulfilling field experience requirements, and serving as a supervised student teacher prior to licensure [3]. It is important to note that specific requirements may vary depending on the specialty or endorsement pursued.

Upon successful completion of the application process and satisfaction of all the requirements, aspiring teachers can be granted a ten-year renewable teaching license in Virginia. It is essential to follow the application instructions carefully and pay attention to any applicable fees. As of writing, the in-state application fee is $100, while the out-of-state fee is $150.

By fulfilling the fingerprint/background check and completing the licensing application process, aspiring elementary school teachers in Virginia take significant steps towards becoming certified educators. These initial requirements help ensure that teachers are qualified and prepared to create a safe and effective learning environment for their students.

Skills and Qualifications for Effective Teaching

Being an effective elementary school teacher requires a unique set of skills and qualifications. To create an optimal learning environment for their students, teachers must possess qualities such as adaptability, empathy, patience, and engagement.

Adaptability and Empathy

Adaptability is a crucial skill for teachers as they need to continuously evaluate what works best for their students and be able to adjust their teaching methods accordingly. This flexibility allows teachers to flow between different theories of learning and modes of teaching without becoming overwhelmed or indecisive. By being adaptable, teachers can tailor their approach to meet the diverse needs of their students, ensuring that each child has the opportunity to thrive.

Empathy is another vital quality for teachers to cultivate. Instead of making assumptions about their students, teachers should make an effort to understand and address the root causes of any challenges students may face. Demonstrating empathy enables teachers to create a supportive and inclusive classroom environment where students feel understood and valued. It helps teachers identify and address the unique struggles students may be experiencing, allowing them to provide the necessary support.

Patience and Engagement

Patience is a virtue that teachers must possess and model for their students. It allows teachers to work through each student's unique struggles and challenges, providing the necessary guidance and support. Patient teachers understand that learning takes time and that each student progresses at their own pace. By demonstrating patience, teachers can create a safe and encouraging environment that fosters growth and development.

Engagement and enthusiasm are also essential traits for effective teaching. When teachers exhibit genuine enthusiasm for learning, it can ignite a passion for knowledge and discovery in their students. By creating engaging lessons and activities, teachers can capture their students' interest and make learning an enjoyable experience. This enthusiasm can inspire students to actively participate, ask questions, and explore new ideas [5].

In addition to these skills and qualities, active listening is vital for teachers to effectively diagnose and address students' individual obstacles and challenges. By seeking feedback, encouraging open communication, and attentively listening to their students, teachers can better understand their students' needs and provide appropriate support [5].

By embodying these skills and qualifications, elementary school teachers can create a positive and nurturing learning environment that supports the growth and development of each student.

Continuing Education and Growth as a Teacher

As an elementary school teacher, the journey to becoming an effective and impactful educator doesn't end with acquiring the necessary qualifications and certifications. It is essential to continuously learn and grow in the teaching profession. There are various opportunities available to expand your knowledge, refine your skills, and stay updated with the latest teaching strategies, research, and best practices.

Professional Development Workshops

Professional development workshops are valuable resources for teachers to enhance their teaching skills and gain new insights. These workshops provide opportunities to engage in interactive sessions, collaborate with fellow educators, and learn from experienced professionals in the field. Topics covered in these workshops may include classroom management techniques, innovative teaching methods, technology integration, assessment strategies, and more.

Attending professional development workshops allows teachers to stay current with the evolving educational landscape. It enables them to implement new ideas and instructional approaches in their classrooms, ultimately benefiting their students' learning experience. By continuously expanding their knowledge through professional development, teachers can provide quality education and contribute to their students' academic success.

Educational Networks and Resources

Joining educational networks and utilizing available resources is another effective way for teachers to foster their growth and development. Educational networks provide platforms for collaboration, sharing ideas, and seeking support from fellow educators. These networks can be local, regional, or even online communities where teachers can connect, exchange insights, and gain inspiration.

Additionally, there is a wealth of educational resources available to teachers. These resources can include educational websites, blogs, podcasts, research articles, and publications that cover a wide range of topics related to teaching and learning. By exploring these resources, teachers can access innovative teaching strategies, lesson plans, educational research, and educational technology tools to enhance their instructional practices.

Staying actively engaged in educational networks and utilizing available resources enables teachers to stay informed about the latest educational trends, research, and developments. It empowers them to continuously adapt and improve their teaching methods, ensuring that they provide the best possible education for their students.

By actively participating in professional development workshops and leveraging educational networks and resources, elementary school teachers can further their growth as educators. Continuously expanding their knowledge and refining their skills allows them to create engaging learning environments, meet the diverse needs of their students, and make a lasting impact on their educational journey.

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