Do you love children and want to make a positive impact on the lives of youth? Then becoming an elementary school teacher is a great way to do so. Accredited online elementary education programs will prepare you to teach kindergarten through eighth grade and give you the flexibility to take classes at your own pace. Be sure to choose a college that is properly accredited by your local and state requirements so that you will receive a quality education and are able to work in the location of your choosing.
Elementary education programs prepare students to teach in primary and middle schools. Common coursework includes child and adolescent literature, educational psychology, curriculum and methods of teaching, instructional strategies in social studies, math, science, reading, and writing, research methods, behavioral and classroom management, and health and physical education. Graduates will be able to teach a variety of subjects to students of all backgrounds, patiently and effectively guide students towards academic success, and prepare lesson plans that creatively apply your school’s curriculum standards. You can also take specialized courses to help you teach kids with special needs, physical and learning disabilities, and underprivileged youth.
In order to become a school teacher you will have to obtain at least a bachelor’s degree and be able to pass your state’s certification exams geared towards elementary education, which is typically the PRAXIS exam. However, if you want to work in a private school, you don’t always need to have a state licensure. You will also typically have to complete a set number of hours as a student teacher, which is done during the final semester of your degree program. Even if it isn’t required in your state, it is a good idea to student teach in order to gain on-the-job experience, which is very valuable to have on your resume for potential employers.
After you have started teaching, it is a good idea to obtain a master’s degree as well. You can usually obtain a master’s degree online while you work and some schools will offer tuition reimbursement for your classes. Master’s degree programs will make you an expert in pedagogy. Some states in the future might even require a master’s degree to begin a teaching career.
Becoming an elementary education teacher is a very rewarding and lucrative career path with summers, holidays, and weekends off. Qualified and motivated teachers are in high-demand across the nation to ensure our educational system remains top-notch. Professional development programs are typically required to renew your teaching license and will help you improve your teaching abilities and stay up-to-date on academic trends and classroom technology.
Become an Elementary Educator by Obtaining Your Degree Online | Peterson’s Online Schools
