Elementary school teachers build a special bond with their students as they watch them grow and learn throughout the year. With little kids constantly on the go, jumping, playing and laughing, this line of work requires boundless energy. These educators are knowledgeable about a variety of subjects, as many design lesson plans across subjects to teach their students the basics of reading, writing and mathematics.

They also frequently work one-on-one with students to assess their abilities and challenge them to overcome any weaknesses. Many elementary school teachers take a playful approach, using props, games and songs to actively engage their students. It’s their job to not only create an academic and fun environment for the kids, but to also interact with the parents to communicate the students’ progress.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 0.7% employment growth for elementary school teachers between 2022 and 2032. In that period, an estimated 10,000 jobs should open up.

Education and training requirements depend largely on whether teachers work at public or private schools. Public schools require teachers to have bachelor’s degrees as well as state-issued licenses obtained through teacher education programs. Aspiring teachers at four-year colleges usually enroll in this program concurrently to save time and money. A student-teaching internship is often a component of such programs as well. Future educators should be sure to attend a nationally accredited program so they are free to work anywhere.

"The best programs work with candidates over a long period of time, usually a year or more, to help candidates gradually take on increasing amount of teaching responsibilities until they are prepared to assume full responsibility for a classroom," says Dennis Van Roekel, former president of the National Education Association.

Each state and the District of Columbia has its own licensing requirements, although some states recognize the licenses of others and extend reciprocity to individuals holding sufficient credentials. Private school educators may not have the same licensing requirements as their public school peers, though a bachelor’s degree is usually still required.