By: BLS.gov

Job Description

Elementary school teachers usually instruct one class of children in several subjects. Other elementary teachers may teach one special subject—music, art, reading, science, arithmetic, or physical education—to a number of classes.

Median Annual Salary (2006-2007)

$47,870

Educational Requirements

All 50 states and the District of Columbia require public school teachers to be licensed through the state board of education, though specific requirements vary. Licensing is not required for private school teachers in most states. Different licenses cover the early childhood grades (usually preschool through grade 3); the elementary grades (grades 1 through 6 or 8); the middle grades (grades 5 through 8); a secondary-education subject area (usually grades 7 through 12); or a special subject, such as reading or music (usually grades kindergarten through 12).

Job Outlook

The employment of schoolteachers is expected to grow by 14 percent before 2016.