Elementary School Teacher
Teachers help young students learn reading, math, and how to think and work together.
What they do
Elementary teachers plan lessons and teach core subjects like reading, writing, math, and science to young children. They create a safe, encouraging classroom, grade work, and help each student grow both academically and socially.
Work environment
Teachers work in elementary schools, usually with the same class of students all day. The job is active and social, with planning and grading often done before or after school hours.
How to become one
Earn a bachelor’s degree in education (or a subject plus a teaching credential) and complete supervised student teaching. Each state also requires a teaching license.
Skills you’ll need
- Patience
- Creativity
- Clear communication
- Organization
- Empathy
A day in the life
A teacher greets students in the morning, leads a reading lesson, then guides a hands-on math activity. After lunch they might do a science experiment, help students who need extra support, and end the day planning tomorrow’s lessons.