The first day of school.
For children, it can be scary
and exciting…
opening them to new worlds.
For elementary school teachers,
it’s the start of a new year
of inspiring students,
and making a lasting impression
on their future.
Kindergarten and elementary school teachers
teach foundation subjects—
math, reading, science and social studies.
They also teach appropriate interaction,
setting and enforcing rules for behavior
in the classroom, lunchroom, and recess.
When students experience barriers to learning,
teachers devise methods to help,
and meet with parents to share
student progress and challenges.
Elementary teachers work in both
public and private schools.
Class sizes—
and the availability of textbooks…
technology… and other materials—
can vary greatly.
Teachers are often accountable for
student performance on standardized tests,
which can be challenging.
Teachers work full time
and often put in extra hours
to prepare lessons and grade school work.
Many primary school teachers work
a ten-month school year
with a two-month summer break,
although some also teach summer school.
Teachers need a bachelor’s degree
in elementary education;
public school jobs require state certification.
Some states require a college major
in a subject such as math, language arts,
or science.
No mistake, it’s not an easy job—
but teaching is more than an occupation,
it’s a commitment.