greatstuff, considering the amount of time that teachers get off during the year, their pay is competitive with many other professions. Schools within the same region could differ significantly in the environment and overall job satisfaction. One of my students went through a big obsession with the Back to the Future movies and frequently drew variations of this movie scene. Love the hubs with listsmakes it really easy to read! Reasons To Become An Elementary School Teacher Finding The Right Path First things first, you'll need to be sure that teaching is the correct career path for you, and that you're passionate about making a difference and helping families and communities through sustained education. One of the best perks about earning a BA in Elementary Education is that you can teach all over the country. Overall, job security for a teacher is high due to the ability to change school locations or districts if needed throughout a career. I definitely agree with both of your points. One of the best parts about being a teacher is watching your First Comes Freshman Orientation, Then Comes Love, Very Important Bobcat: Chere M. Sampson '95. While teachers may feel pressure to teach to the test, and therefore worry about their job security, it is unknown how many teachers actually lose their job directly due to student performance and standardized testing scores. Not only is the career rewarding and impactful, but it is also quite secure and geared towards those with families. She's also done training and curriculum design for a financial institution and been a science museum educator. Because teaching gives you the opportunity to continue learning, and to help teach students to become lifelong learners themselves. Beth Lewis has a B.A. You're right that it's not for everyone. I purposely left patience off this list. Elementary teachers become our first educators, friend, philosopher, facilitator, and guides. Love them! says Judi W. Sydney R. suggested this as one of the things that makes teaching elementary the best job ever. So many teachers agreed with Ginger G.: "Nothing cheers you up like a kindergarten hug!" Brandi C. added, "Sometimes you think they need a hug and realize you do too." 2. It is tough to measure this concept but still very important to consider. This makes it easier for scheduling holidays and after school care when you have the same time off as your children. I'm not talking about jumping on board with heated political issues or joining the bandwagon for the latest curriculum trend. Voted up! (2020, August 27). The majority of teachers enter the education profession because they want to make a difference in the world and their communities. Advantages of Being a Teacher. I will show him your article. Here are six reasons why you should watch Abbott Elementary: 1. Leah Lefler from Western New York on June 08, 2012: This is excellent! Kindergarten and elementary school teachers work in public and private schools. They instruct their young students in core subjects like math and reading. All rights reserved. The world will always need teachers. Preschool teachers get to create entertaining, engaging, and creative classrooms that promote learning as well as social, cognitive, and emotional development. It was mixed with pride, satisfaction, and accomplishment. Paul Richard Kuehn from Udorn City, Thailand on June 08, 2012: I totally agree with the ten reasons you have listed for wanting to become an elementary teacher. Of that 16% turnover, 67% of teachers voluntarily either chose a different profession or took an early retirement package. Being an elementary school teacher is a highly rewarding profession. Lewis, Beth. We can all remember something positive (or negative) that one of our elementary school teachers said to us or the classsomething that stuck in our minds and informed our viewpoints for all these years. tables and complete complex worksheets. Use 1-inch resume margins around the entire document. Thanks! The most effective teachers are in it for more than just a paycheck. Rose Clearfield (author) from Milwaukee, Wisconsin on June 08, 2012: Simone Haruko Smith from San Francisco on June 08, 2012: What wonderful people teachers are! When I taught special ed, I got tons of comments about how I must have all the patience in the world to do that job. Being able to think creatively on your feet will play a huge role in getting you through these situations successfully. This affords them the chance to learn . A whole class learns to I created so many of the teaching materials that I used everyday in my special education classroom from scratch. You must I have met so many friendly, caring, and selfless teachers over the years. Thats why you teach; to help students become better people, adds Emily M. As Meredith D. puts it: Where else can you get paid to read Dr. Seuss, play Duck, Duck, Goose, or sing Big Yellow Taxi?, Mary Ann shared this sentiment about the best job ever, and Erin B. backed her up. Higher classroom enrollments and overall bureaucracy limit the amount that school systems can keep up with growing populations. Teaching a new concept to a child and then seeing them put it into use on their own is one of the best parts of being a teaching assistant. It takes talent and real Having positive co-workers who support you and share your point of view about many areas of teaching and education can positively affect your classroom. Yes, for sure. Seeing an improvement in a student or seeing growth is the best feeling! enthuses Mary W. Youve taught them something. It's a shame when someone isn't able to pursue a career due to financial constraints. subjects, and who does not want to feel limited by teaching only Pro #1: Kids Enjoy Coming to School Being an elementary teacher means many students are young enough to enjoy coming to school. Teacher salaries are pre-determined meaning that you will know exactly what you will make in a year according to the salary chart. The impact a good teacher makes is incredible. This is such a great hub, randomcreative! The look of joy on a student's face when they solve a problem . skills to help children open their minds. More importantly, the purpose of this study focused on . The best reason to be a teacher is that you want to have a positive, inspiring impact on children's lives. The purpose of this study focused on uncovering emergent themes regarding both helpful and hindering factors associated with elementary teachers' success within the classroom. I love your dress!'. Rose Clearfield (author) from Milwaukee, Wisconsin on August 27, 2012: Becoming an elementary school teacher is fantastic. 15.) By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Since before college, I always wanted to be an elementary school teacher. One of my students could barely put together four words in writing when he was in first grade. :). Overall, teachers remain a committed group of professionals who want to stay within their field. We have all met teachers who really didn't seem to enjoy children, which is so sad. In addition to academic progress, you also watch your students develop socially and emotionally. 12. The thrill of a good and well thought out lesson is incomparable. While many teachers do hold strict rules and guidelines within their classroom, there is always an elevated level of fun in elementary rooms. BUILD A PERFECT RESUME. It's awesome to look back on some of those mementos from teaching. Otherwise, you would not be considering teaching. down to complete the worksheet together. writing on the board or telling stories that repeat important An elementary school teacher is responsible for the academic and emotional well-being of his or her students. Teachers don't have to work long hours. As a teacher, you are serving others everyday, equipping them students learn and grow. When you bring the full force of your personality and expertise to the classroom, you can't help but inspire your students and mold their young, impressionable minds. However, teachers are paid based on a regulated scale that takes into account your degree of education and years of teaching experience. Consider all of these reasons why you should, earn your Elementary Education degree at St. Thomas University. Though I'm not a teacher any more, these are exactly the reasons I went into it. Elementary teachers have the unique opportunity to speak into the lives of children. It's also easy for people who are cut out for it to burn out because of a number of different factors. Copyright: Rose Clearfield 1. You'll cherish the funny things they say, the silly things they do, the questions they ask, and the stories they write. Either way, it's more than the two weeks paid vacation given in most corporate jobs. If you are willing to work hard in any type of environment, you'll find that you can always get work - even as a brand new teacher. In addition, with elementary school kids, you Consider these reasons why you should earn your BA in Elementary Education at St. Thomas University. Work with diverse backgrounds. Choose a legible resume font, and stick to an 11pt or 12pt font size for the main text. So many teachers agreed with Ginger G.: Nothing cheers you up like a kindergarten hug! Brandi C. added, Sometimes you think they need a hug and realize you do too.. Give your best to each student and watch them grow. People who appreciate the importance of early education as the foundation for student's lives can find teaching in an elementary school very fulfilling. There are plenty of reasons why Elementary Education is a desired field for so many STU students. Building the academic foundation of young minds can be challenging, Lewis, Beth. Working with children If you have the patience to care for and guide children, becoming a teacher may be the right career path for you. I feel like that's such a controversial topic in public schools. You might use games, art, music, rhymes and other props to make learning fun and to encourage memorization. vocabulary words. Here are the 19 best reasons you would want to be a teacher that you can include in your essay: To help children learn more effectively. 1) Heavy workloads. Or if you work in a year-round district, the vacation will spread throughout the year. Many elementary teachers choose to collaborate and take turns teaching the different subjects, so if one has a love for science, and another for Language Arts, they can each teach the lesson they prefer. Teachers are lifelong learners who relish the chance to grow and evolve. I felt this feeling again when I volunteered at the local elementary school helping children in a summer reading program. I want to develop a learning atmosphere where children feel joy and security. Cynthia Calhoun from Western NC on August 06, 2012: Very informative. Licensed elementary education teachers are usually also approved to teach through 8th grade, which adds another. This qualitative case study determination was to explore the reasons elementary teachers are resigning from urban South Eastern public schools in the United States. One of the "happy spiders" that one of my students loved to make. Perhaps you like being around kids because Anybody who enters teaching solely for a breezy schedule or carefree lifestyle will be immediately disappointed. This love of education is what you want to pass on to your students. The primary reasons to pursue this career are: Raising new generations and changing the world for the better are your goals. The best teachers will be remembered years later. One reason is that you can make a difference in the lives of young children. If you take initiative to learn new skills on your own on a regular basis, such as craft techniques, recipes, and home projects, you will most likely enjoy the learning aspects that come with the teaching profession. School districts all over the country need good teachers. not enjoy the company of children, then becoming an elementary Michelle L. notes that they tell you that they love you all the time. Donna P. knows its true: Someone tells you Youre the best! almost daily.. Rose is a full-time freelance writer who frequently writes about education, special education, DIY projects, food, Milwaukee, and more. There's no master's program that will teach you patience or the best way to help a young student recover from a skinned knee. To help future generations solve the problems of today. Elementary school teachers who expect students to listen to and respect them must provide them with the same courtesy. Teaching the basics of reading and math may seem boring to some, but students will use and build on these skills throughout the rest of their lives. Again, most teachers do end up working while on these breaks, but it is nice that they dont need to take vacation days for these breaks that are already pre-planned into the school year calendar. Even when you can't see measurable process from day to day or even week to week, you will be able to see trends over larger spans of time. Other teachers concur, like Lindsey S.: When you see a student finally understand a concept, that light in their eyes makes it all worth it!. It may involve significantly I try to be positive and make connections to my curriculum during these meetings, but honestly, I'm thankful to have opportunities like AOE courses, Art Ed PRO, and Art Ed Now available. Rose Clearfield (author) from Milwaukee, Wisconsin on August 28, 2012: Thanks, Vicki! Teachers learn how they can help each and every kid they come in contact with. They are charged with teaching young minds and teaching future leaders. Claudia Rinaldi, chair of the education department and associate professor in education at Lasell College: It's very hard to have your child change teachers in the middle of the year. I love the photos that show what your students have shared with you. A teacher's disposition can have a huge impact on the learning and general atmosphere of a classroom. Great hub with lots of content. but is incredibly worthwhile. Blurter of Indiscretions from Clinton CT on June 08, 2012: Voted up and sharing. Plus, you have to communicate When working with young minds, you often have to repeat ideas As an eleventh, I would add that by being a teacher you want to instill or develop moral values in a student's character. Another item to consider is that every school district is managed differently. In fact, switching teachers for any reason during the school year is extremeand uncommon. Rose Clearfield (author) from Milwaukee, Wisconsin on June 10, 2012: Thanks so much, Om! Essential Skills/Duties. This can mean printing up Personally I don't know that I'd want to work closely with adults every day. Teachers are the future. Giving Brings Its Own Rewards 2. This non-traditional approach allows graduates to teach K-6 elementary students as well as careers as a Reading Interventionist, Learning Center Teacher, or Learning Center Director. Joanne R. reminds us, You always know youre doing something that matters. The demands of the job can be tiring and rigorous, which is why 1. The importance of teaching elementary students is vital to the health of our society. Change is exciting. Moreover, the innocent enthusiasm of your students will keep you young as they remind you to smile through even the most frustrating moments. you will want to get build a solid foundation. This is less than the average job sector growth at 5%-6%. You'll also develop lesson plans and evaluate students' performance. That said, there are few jobs so powerful as those held by teachers- what a think it is to shape the minds that will be creating our future! One reason that I would want to explore private sector options if/when I do go back to the field at some point is because teachers there do have more freedom with that aspect of teaching. Most people can't say they actually have fun at their job. These insights help elementary teachers plan general and targeted curriculum to prepare students for success in middle school and beyond. These are great qualities that a teacher should possess. There are so many reasons to become an elementary school teacher. Teachers usually do grade papers at night or need to plan for lessons outside of school hours. Elementary teachers can foster their creativity and individuality through their lessons and interactions with students. Here are 20 reasons why: 1. This was the most cited reasons for considering leaving teaching; of those who had had second thoughts, 76% claimed it's the amount . Read on for more details about the qualifications for elementary school teachers, and review the job outlook and salary potential. Do you enjoy working with children? However, if you do, being a teacher 101 JFK Parkway | Short Hills, NJ | 07078 | (973) 921-5500, Protected: Classroom Talk-to-Text Project, Developing Student Presentation Skills With Adobe. Check out these 10 reasons for becoming an elementary teacher. However, teachers get many holidays off as well as a long stretch of time over Thanksgiving and Christmas. Lifelong learners make great teachers. Public school teachers also need state licensure or certification. You achieve this by being kind, caring, empathic, passionate and funny. They keep their energy levels up by focusing on why they got into teaching in the first place. Most teachers find themselves encouraged and uplifted by the little joys that accompany working with children. They help and contribute for the betterment of Students. It's an ever-surprising mix of grueling hard work and ecstatic successes, both big and small. On average, elementary teachers all across the nation make about. Promote Lifelong Learning in Young People 6. Love being in schools and able to turn kids on to learning and reading. This is a big pro due to making it easier to have them engaged in your lessons. You're right that most teachers do put in a lot of hours outside of their contracted time. You're right that it's not for everyone. Are you considering going into teaching but aren't sure if you will be a good fit for the job? Hate being tied to a desk and office all day. Kindergarten teachers build strong educational foundations for young minds, which is personally rewarding. You have all the qualities and skills to become a teacher. You will have to sit through irrelevant PD. On average, elementary teachers all across the nation make about $45,000 per year. Whether or not you have any passion for teaching or any other aspect of education, you will not enjoy coming to work every day if you don't love kids. Every teacher has had a number of those "none of my classes ever prepared me for this" situations. In an educational world driven by data and dictated by assessment, the art room is a space where hands-on life skills are still taught. Cynthia Calhoun from Western NC on August 27, 2012: All very good reasons to become a teacher. You can teach in downtown New York City or rural Alaska on a remote island. The Elementary Education program at St. Thomas University offers a blended learning approach geared towards working adults who cant commit to a 16-week student teaching semester. Find out why teaching middle school or high school is also the best job ever! Email: [email protected] Why become a teacher? Heres a roundup of their thoughts on what makes teaching elementary kids the best job ever. You love kids. Like Patty Gray says, They write you the cutest notes, and their misspellings are hilarious. (See more of our favorite teacher notes from students here. Learn your trade, earn your credential, become tenured, and you can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that you have a job you can count on for decades to come. This includes activities like dress up days, field trips, assemblies, etc. There are plenty of reasons why Elementary Education is a desired field for so many STU students. Do students looking forward to working with you most days? This is why I want to become a teacher. Other personality traits teachers may have include: Kindness Empathy Loving kids is the first step to being a good teacher. It can The greatest asset you bring to the classroom each day is your own unique personality. People choose different career paths because of what they have patience to deal with on a daily basis. As state government employees, early childhood education teachers working at public schools receive ample benefit packages, including health insurance, retirement accounts, paid holidays, and time off. If you have PD money available to you, use it for something worth your while! The ability to help children achieve their best. Youll never find a job with more free hugs. I actually became a teacher for 9 out of the 10 reasons you explained. The teacher, Blaine Banghart, is a music teacher at University Elementary School in Shreveport . You may not reach all of them, but for those that you do, you are making a huge difference. Rona L. agrees: Even on your worst day you are still the best thing to some students., Whether they mean to be or not, kids are often hilarious. Working with young elementary kids usually means one thing: a lot of noise. ThoughtCo. We have all met people who did or did not become elementary school teachers for the right reasons. Hehehe. Overall, there are well over 2 million K-8 grade teacher positions within the country. life. You're right that this is especially true at the elementary level. You know that I'm with you on the politics issue. The Benjamin L. Crump Center for Social Justice Hosts Panel Conversation on The Truth About Body-Worn Cameras, STU MENS SOCCER TEAM HAS NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP & WORLD CUP FEVER, St. Thomas Law Trial Team Captures First and Second Place at FJA State Competition, Incorporating Human Trafficking Law and Policy in Law School Curriculum, STU names Gladstone I. Edwards as Marching Band Director, St. Thomas University teacher is definitely the right job for you! Many teachers choose to receive their BA in Elementary Education because they like a wide range of subjects. However, teachers are paid based on a regulated scale that takes into account your degree of education and years of teaching experience. If you do If you are a creative communicator, being an elementary I'm not sure if that figure is accurate or not, but I would believe it. Therefore, 16% of teachers left the career field. Thanks for urging people to think it through. It's an ever-surprising mix of grueling hard work and ecstatic successes, both big and small. 4. The book not only explains why teachers should choose this point of view, but tells how , offering a wide range of practical resources for classrooms and schools at all levels, including tools for: Most first-year teachers will start out anywhere from $30,000-$40,000 per year. And when the job gets tough, sometimes it's only your sense of humor that can keep you moving forward with any sanity. If you like Educators are in charge of students all day, working to help learners with varying abilities grasp the same concepts. I agree that as a student, having a good teacher makes all of the difference. While there is no single correct or incorrect reason, there are a number of good reasons to contemplate this career option. A Warning to Young People: Don't Become a Teacher. 50 reasons to love teaching. studies. interesting and educational worksheets, create highly interactive No matter the challenges you face in the classroom, your work truly does have positive ramifications for your students, their families, and the future. I almost wish they WOULDN'T become teachers because we need more people like these in politics and high ranking business positions. The 'Eureka' Moment. Students looking to major in teaching can work towards earning a BA in Elementary Education. Having both male and female teachers gives students the chance to learn from others they perceive as similar. The U.S. Department of Education stated that the percentage of teachers who plan on remaining in teaching didnt change much from 1999 through 2012. You are right that teachers do need to be good listeners. If you are considering becoming an elementary school teacher, here are the top ten reasons why you may want to take the leap into the classroom: 1. Only 14% of the 16% turnovers were due to involuntary reasons such as layoffs or dismissals. To be an elementary school teacher, you have to be versed in a variety of subjects, such as reading, math, science, and social studies. Be able to collaborate with other teachers. I would caution people on #10 though. lesson plans, or put together lions from pipe cleaners - being If there's a new skill you want to learn, get a recommendation for a great "how to" book or just start browsing tutorials online. But, the truth is, being an elementary art teacher is the most gratifying job in the world. to that number. Great hub! So, it can be challenging to determine what the school's hiring manager deems important . How to Become a Kindergarten or Elementary School Teacher for an individual who enjoys teaching and learning about different Rose Clearfield (author) from Milwaukee, Wisconsin on June 12, 2012: Thank you much! Be silly! There are plenty of elementary jobs but less than average growth in the sector. While it is true that teachers arent required to work nights, weekends, or holidays at school, they often do work these hours at home. Also, you will have approximately two months off per year for summer vacation. However, there is growing concern that teachers are worried about their jobs when factoring in standardized testing scores. Mixing education and imagination is another reason why being a preschool teacher is rewarding. Some students will see teachers as role models to better understand how to interact with adults who are different from themselves positively. You get so many free hugs! Building the academic foundation of young minds can be challenging, but is incredibly worthwhile. One of my favorite parts about teaching special education and working at the same camps multiple years is the connections that I made with the kids. Becoming a teacher is one of the most rewarding and impactful professions that you can have in a persons life. The most effective teachers are in it for more than just a paycheck. also mean going over a student's work with her privately, or sitting The hugs, smiles, and laughter will keep you going and remind you of why you became a teacher in the first place. Considering our education system as a ladder, elementary education is its first step. If you're not a fan of having your personal space invaded or answering invasive questions, going to grad school won't change that. This will get people thinking. On the rare days when the kids are quiet, you can then dive deep into lessons. There are many reasons to be an elementary teacher. Consider all of these reasons why you should earn your Elementary Education degree at St. Thomas University. Duties, responsibilities, and creativity that the profession involves fascinate you. They get to witness children blossom into well-rounded students hungry to learn. Physical education is an important class for students, because it teaches them the value of staying active. Teaching is more than just a job. Asking students questions and paying close attention to their answers helps you adjust your instruction to suit students' strengths and weaknesses and supports development of soft skills. kids, elementary school is a great place to interact with them. They lead and form the children in their early age, becoming one of their role models. A boy can recite multiplication My son is deciding right now what career choice to make. Donnah, thanks! 73% of elementary school teachers hold a bachelor's degree and 18% hold a master's degree. The importance of teaching elementary students is vital to the health of our society. want to think about changing jobs! When I was in grad school, they would tell us that more than half of teachers don't make it past 5 years in the classroom. 2. 2. Yes, I used the word that makes some people shiver when heard, education. I can happily spend my whole day with nice kids but can't stand brats for more than 5 minutes. It's a calling. One of the reasons for becoming a teacher is to contribute to your community in a meaningful way. feeling a call to serve others is a great inspiration source. Sometimes in cubicle life, there's a need to blend in and tone down your personality. Every Day is Unique. Many teachers with families can teach within the same school district, or even at the same school as their children. You do not necessarily have to prefer kids in order to be a good Do you love learning? Growing up, you had a fantastic teacher who became your role model. than liking kids to be able to work with your students. More structured time is spent in the classroom than in virtually any other environment. In their eyes, we are the best singers, artists, etc. entire curriculum. Becky R. loves that you get new beginnings every August! Plus, as Tonia K. points out: Every day is a new adventure., Little kids think youre amazing on a regular basis. I don't think I could ever have been a teacher. You're absolutely right about that. There are many different reasons why an elementary school teacher may choose to get a masters degree, but it is not a requirement for the job. :-) Voted up. Phone: 877-788-7526, Title IX Compliance | Privacy Policy | Learn with them! Jill Staake is a Contributing Editor with WeAreTeachers. Survival Tips for First Year Special Education Teachers, Professionalism in Education: Teacher Etiquette Tips for the Modern Professional, Listen to Children's Story Books Online (for free! 16401 NW 37th Avenue Most first-year teachers will start out anywhere from $30,000-$40,000 per year. I don't know if that is true or not, but teaching is not for everyone. with the students at their own level, whether it's kindergarten And if you are already You build life-shaping relationships In becoming a preschool teacher, you're leaving a lasting legacy on the world by influencing the learning of little ones. Thanks, catalina. computers, and language, but otherwise you are in charge of their 11. Brenda B. loves having a student call you mom accidentally, but then smile, like you really are! How charming is that? Elementary school is where the foundation of the future If you don't feel that you have an accurate read on your abilities, review the feedback or think about the comments that you've gotten through experience with kids. Elementary school graduation goes on and so do I But as I approach yet another year's graduation, I'm left feeling uneasy. I make a difference - As a teacher, I can positively influence a child's way of thinking or doing. One of my students went through a big obsession with the Back to the Future movies and frequently drew variations of this movie scene. Your students might go to a special teacher for art, Author: Stephen Greet, Co-founder. Being a teacher is one of the noblest and most rewarding professions, and I am so excited to be headed towards such an amazing career. This is where the teaching assistant role comes into play, and it's one of the key reasons why the job exists. school teacher is a rewarding outlet. But would I ever want to become one myself? They will make you laugh out loud daily, says Elaine B. be able to understand their psychological and emotional needs, while simultaneously ensuring that they are learning at their This is a great hub and I am voting up as useful and sharing with my followers. teacher. still fulfilled your calling to make a difference in a child's Decent job security for teachers. HubPages is a registered trademark of The Arena Platform, Inc. Other product and company names shown may be trademarks of their respective owners. They also help them develop critical social and behavioral skills for success in middle school and beyond. Graduates also need a license to teach within the state that they choose to work. you may want to take the leap into the classroom: To be an elementary school teacher, you have to be versed in Rose Clearfield (author) from Milwaukee, Wisconsin on August 06, 2012: Thanks, Donna! Elementary teachers typically need a bachelor's degree or higher. Teachers meet with parents, guardians, and others that may be involved in the well-being of a child. Teachers can make decent money. It was based on Quinta Brunson's former teacher Quinta Brunson wrote Abbott Elementary as a comedy loosely based on her. They're so patient with children, even the not-so-good ones. What are yours? How can you not love that? Nowif the politics hadn't driven me outbut that's a whole other story for a hub. Were you first inspired to teach because of a high school history teacher who made the subject really fun? elementary school teacher. Remember that even when someone is giving you a hard time, they are glad you are there, Kristen S. says. Elementary school teachers usually study elementary education, education or early childhood education. At the end of the day, we should do a job in which we see some meaningful purpose. But it can also feel overwhelming to take on this career. Rights Reserved, Individual states control public education, meaning that your salary will differ from teachers in other states. As such, teachers have an unparalleled opportunity to affect great personal growth and change, provided they understand the importance of their role and act accordingly. Not only is the career rewarding and impactful, but it is also quite secure and geared towards those with families. Typical duties of an elementary teacher: Prepare and grade coursework and assignments Continued educational requirements are also part of a long career in education as well. Your brain is constantly engaged in creative ways as you work to solve a multitude of daily problems that you've never faced before. Most people go into teaching because they like working with kids and not necessarily with adults, but obviously it's an important part of the job, too. However, you're also right about the flexibility with the schedule, which is something that doesn't come with a lot of jobs. 1. A gift that will last their whole lives. Others wholeheartedly agreed, and we do too. There are so many situations where sitting down with a kid to listen to him/her for a few extra minutes will make all the difference. Progress in a classroom is a beautiful thing. I stress, this is only my opinion but I feel I am in a good place to comment. It's not. Elementary school teachers must possess the following skills: Have patience. You do an important job for society. Most kindergarten and elementary school teachers do not work during the summer. Essentially, I can be the positive influence in their lives. One of the best things about becoming an elementary educator is the fact that elementary schools are located near and far all across the country. In addition to enjoying kid interactions, many teachers also enjoy their adult co-workers and the general environment of their schools. Five reasons new teachers want to leave. Being an elementary school teacher is great This is truly the greatest gift of all. will serve them for the rest of their lives! Send more students to college. Victoria Lynn from Arkansas, USA on August 28, 2012: Great reasons! Individual states control public education, meaning that your salary will differ from teachers in other states. This can include anything from babysitting to student teaching. Teachers in elementary school are responsible for identifying students' academic strengths and weaknesses at an early age. Some people are natural born teachers. in sociology and has taught school for more than a decade in public and private settings. Teaching might be a stressful job, but overall, you DO get to spend the day with kids- what's better than that? I assume elementary teachers do as well. I definitely agree that that eleventh suggestion. that you can alter your communication levels between children You can shape their minds, create innovative ways for them to I love all of your reasons to become a teacher. Loving kind natured teachers easily get favoured by kids and they obey them as well.Such things fulfils purpose of education in right manner. Help Disadvantaged Students 3. So why teach? Inspiring them not only academically but personally. an elementary school teacher is a great way to use your creative We found these by analyzing 12,305 elementary school teacher . Teaching the basics of reading and math may seem boring to some, but students will use and build on these skills throughout the rest of their lives. Kindergarten teachers also regularly get opportunities to talk to their pupils' parents via parent-teacher meetings. I believe that enjoying and feeling that one belongs is an important part of education. More Information, Including Links to O*NET. This is a sacred trust we are given as teachers, and definitely one of the benefits of the job. Teaching is one of the most direct ways to make an impact, and if you are driven by the desire to help those around you, being a . Childhood obesity has become a great problem over the years, and physical education classes can help to promote healthy lifestyles . Classroom Management Here's how classroom management is used on elementary school teacher resumes: Create lesson plans based on long term curricular goals Develop classroom management system and procedures Participate in professional development workshops and discussions Want to make a difference in the world. Not every one of your child's teachers will be a good match. I frequently sent my material files to my co-workers (i.e. Usual job duties include preparing lesson plans, delivering classroom instruction, and performing assessments. So, that first-year teacher position that you take in downtown New York City with a high cost of living will pay you the same as people in the country with a much lower cost of living. Probably not. Teachers Are Excellent Role Models 7. Top 7 Inspiring Reasons to Become a Teacher 1. 2. Each and every day is an adventure being an elementary school teacher. Teachers need to be patience and a good listener as well. LaDena Campbell from Somewhere Over The Rainbow - Near Oz on August 06, 2012: I love your list! A student's self-efficacy only becomes possible when a teacher creates an inclusive, equitable, and just environment; continually updates their understanding of their students so that each learner feels known; expects those learners to struggle productively with worthy tasks; and shares meaningful feedback about their successes (Hammond, 2015). However, teachers absolutely must use their individual gifts to inspire, lead, and motivate their students. Most likely there will be remarks that pertain to your abilities with the kids. With that being said, teacher salaries dont necessarily change due to location. To ensure children have positive mentors. I do admire elementary teachers. :) Obviously it can be challenging to work with the not so good kids. Here's a roundup of their thoughts on what makes teaching elementary kids the best job ever. Lives Can Be Improved by Dedicated Instructors 5. Teaching elementary school lends itself to many other creative outlets as well, such as creating costumes for a class play or writing your own song for a school talent show. They generally work during school hours when students are present and use nights and weekends to prepare lessons and grade papers. school teacher, you help students learn and develop in ways that Here's why I do it: 1. "As a teacher, I possess a tremendous power to make a child's life miserable or joyous. 2022 The Arena Media Brands, LLC and respective content providers on this website. fullest abilities. If you are considering becoming One great aspect about teaching is that while you get to impart a lot of knowledge, you also frequently learn from your students and you get to learn along with them. read. Want to see their little faces light up? All Teaching appeals to many people because of the idealistic aspect of wanting to make a difference. This is a noble and valiant purpose that you should always keep in the forefront of your mind. Elementary teachers cover a variety of grade-specific content and specialties while managing many responsibilities. Excellent! Still, there are some benefits to working at a school. Related: How To Become an Elementary School Teacher. ), Oh, those joyful gap-toothed elementary school grins! I can inspire - I can help students build self-esteem and believe in themselves and their ability to learn, no matter their background or abilities. As a result, their students often suffered because these teachers didn't put the effort into those other less liked subjects that they should have. They will think you are an artist, even if you draw the simplest picture, says Elizabeth A. one subject. ThoughtCo, Aug. 27, 2020, thoughtco.com/top-seven-reasons-to-become-teacher-2081536. I'm talking about a deep appreciation for the classic roots of education and for the pursuit of truth and knowledge. Classroom ideas, free printables, and great teacher ideas right here. Embrace the variety of the curriculum and find something to love about every subject. "7 Reasons to Become a Teacher." It's a calling. If you are considering becoming an elementary school teacher, here are the top ten reasons why you may want to take the . You have a broad appreciation of school subjects. with valuable information and teaching them important skills. I still have photos, notes, and other mementos from students from back when I taught high school. Especially at the elementary level, the important of a good teacher takes altogether a new level. Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of elementary, middle, and high school principals with similar occupations.