What education or training is required to become an elementary school teacher?

Answer 1

You will need a bachelor's degree and certification as an elementary teacher (typically the university will have you enroll in a certification program as part of your degree). Requirements for regular licenses to teach kindergarten through grade 12 vary by State. However, all States require a bachelor's degree from an approved teacher training program with a prescribed number of subject and education credits, as well as supervised practice teaching, in addition to the professional testing for the license.

All 50 States and the District of Columbia require public school teachers to be licensed. Licensure is not required for teachers in private schools in most States. This is granted by the State Board of Education.

Almost all States require applicants for a teacher's license to be tested for competency in basic skills, such as reading and writing, and in teaching. Most States require continuing education for renewal of the teacher's license. Many States have reciprocity agreements for licensing, but not all.

Alternative licensure programs are available for teachers who have a bachelor's degree in the subject they will teach, but who lack the necessary education courses required for a regular license. Many of these alternative licensure programs are designed to ease shortages of teachers of certain subjects, such as mathematics and science. Teachers who need to be licensed may enter programs that grant a master's degree in education, as well as a license.

Private schools are generally exempt from meeting State licensing standards. Private schools associated with religious institutions also desire candidates who share the values that are important to the institution.

The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education currently accredits teacher education programs across the United States.

In addition to being knowledgeable in their subject, teachers must have the ability to communicate, inspire trust and confidence, and motivate students, as well as understand the students' educational and emotional needs.

With additional preparation, teachers may move into positions as school librarians, reading specialists, instructional coordinators, or guidance counselors. Teachers may become administrators or supervisors, although the number of these positions is limited and competition can be intense.

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Answer 2

To teach within the public school system in the United States at the pre-K through high school levels, you must have a bachelor's degree in a teacher education program from a regionally accredited college or university and state teacher certification. This would take approximately four years as a full-time student, provided you take the program as prescribed by the college or university.

For the source and more detailed information concerning your request, click on the related links section (U.S. Department of Labor) indicated directly below this answer section.

Answer 3

It depends on where you live.

In the UK you need to do a one-year postgraduate training course after a degree for any teaching work.