 The most well-known elementary school job is undoubtedly that of the traditional elementary education teacher. However, there are many other elementary education jobs for people of all ages and backgrounds. Read further to discover some of the various teacher jobs available to people interested in working with children and see which ones may be right for you. 
Elementary Education Jobs For All School administrators are the hidden machinery behind an orderly school. They are passionate, organized and intelligent people who care deeply about children. Many times, school administrators are former teachers who want to make a bigger impact on children's overall educational experiences. School administration positions require a bachelor's degree and often a master's degree in education administration. For more information, see our education administration careers article. For those passionate about all things art, becoming an elementary school art teacher might be the perfect career. Art teachers fulfill an important elementary education job, working hands-on with students to instill an appreciation of art, promote creative expression and teach the fundamentals of color and shape. Most art teachers remain stationary in specific rooms—with plenty of art supplies—while children funnel in from different classes. The art teacher often explains an artistic technique then let the kids try, floating from student to student to check on progress. For more information on becoming an art teacher, see our creative teaching jobs page. To become an art teacher, students can obtain a bachelor's degree in elementary education with a focus in art, a Fine Arts (painting, drawing or design) degree or Art History degree. However, the latter two usually need to complete a separate program to fulfill state licensing requirements before teaching.
Cafeteria Worker A staple at elementary schools are the beloved cafeteria workers. While they don't qualify as elementary education teachers, they do keep the student body full, happy and healthy. People who love to cook and care about children are excellent cafeteria workers. A knowledge of food and food service is all that is necessary to work in school cafeterias, but many workers find they are able to start with little experience and learn quickly as they go. The role of computer teacher continues to increase in importance as computers become a more integral part of both learning and operating in the world at large. It is a great position for enthusiasts who care about the future of technology. Like art teacher jobs, computer teachers generally work in a stationary lab and teach each class once a week throughout the year. Elementary computer classes lay the foundation of student understanding in computer hardware, software, applications, Internet and even basic programming. Many computer teachers design their curriculum in conjunction with other elementary education teachers so there is a connection between course objectives. Most computer/technology teachers have a bachelor's degree in computer education or computer science and teacher education.
If you love both children and languages, you might consider the popular elementary education teacher position of working with children for whom English is not their first language. English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers, Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) and Bilingual teachers teach students the English language so that they can better communicate—and succeed in their elementary education. Most states require these teachers to have a bachelor's degree and an ESL certificate. Search our online database of ESL, TESOL and Bilingual programs to get started today. Often unsung heroes, guidance counselors hear the whispered troubles of students and help them work through problems to become well-adjusted individuals. They often work side-by-side with school administrators to support children going through difficult times at home or displaying unacceptable behavior at school. Guidance counselors require a bachelor's degree with psychology courses and school counseling certification. Some states require master's degrees, and others require elementary education teacher certification as well. Contact your state department of education for information about requirements in your state.
If you love books and want an elementary education job without being a teacher, you might consider becoming an elementary school librarian. Librarians are vitally important—they supply schools with necessary reading materials and promote increased literacy among students. With more managerial duties than most elementary education jobs, librarians work within a budget to acquire appropriate and varied books and media, run day-to-day library activities and manage volunteers. Many states require elementary education teacher certification before a librarian certification can be obtained. Most school librarian certification courses are graduate-level however, some states require school librarians to hold a master's degree. For more information, see our school librarian information article. Music education, like art education, is an important part of young children's growth in school. With a music teacher job, you work on fostering an appreciation of music as well as an understanding of musical skills in your students. In a typical music class, elementary students might learn how to sing a song in unison, read music notes or master a simple rhythm. Most music teachers maintain their own classroom—with a piano and other instruments—but those at smaller schools may need to move around and visit various classrooms. Music teachers are required to complete regular teacher education and licensing requirements. Many pursue an undergraduate degree in music education or vocal/instrumental performance and then complete a teacher certification program. For more information on becoming an elementary music teacher, see our creative teaching jobs article.
On top of healing aching tummies, applying Band-Aids and treating fevers, nurses often track the entire school population's immunizations and overall health. If you are a nurse who loves children and wants a regular, day-time schedule, elementary school nursing could be for you. State requirements for school nursing vary greatly, but most require a bachelor's, and some a master's degree or RN certification. Some states offer school nursing as a certificate endorsement and others as a separate certification. For those who love sports and physical activity, a physical education teacher job is a great career choice. Because of the range of class material, there's something new every day for a physical education teacher, whether it be basketball, rock climbing, softball or tennis. Physical education teachers are on their feet most of the day, so they must be energetic for long periods of time. One of the principal tasks of a physical education teacher—aside from teaching the safe, proper techniques of an activity—is to constantly motivate students who are not naturally athletic or active. A great option for physical education teachers is to coach extracurricular sports in addition to teaching daytime classes. The typical requirement for becoming a physical education teacher is to complete a four-year degree in Health and Physical Education, though people with degrees in Kinesiology or Health and Wellness may also obtain an elementary education teacher certificate and become a physical education teacher as well.
One of the most in-demand teacher jobs in American schools is the special education teacher. While it is a challenging career, special education teaching can be extremely rewarding for its practitioners. Special education teachers may partner with high-needs children throughout their day or supervise classes with multiple students. Job descriptions in this field vary as much as the developmental stages of the students, but common topics are social norms, behavior, safety, transportation, basic math and reading, and applicable job skills. On top of teacher certification, special education teachers must receive special education certification. Certification differs by state, but it generally involves taking courses on various developmental and learning disabilities. Some states may require a master's degree. Find special education programs now. Find an Elementary Education Job That's Right For You As you can see, the number of jobs associated with elementary education is astonishing—a whole team of people forms the backbone of any great school. If children and education are your passions, you're certain to find your perfect job in elementary education. If you are interested in finding an elementary education job based on your level of education, see our elementary teacher jobs by degree article. |
