Elementary School Teachers
| Description |
OES Code: 313050 |
Elementary School Teachers teach elementary pupils in public or private schools basic academic, social, and other formative skills. Exclude special education teachers of the handicapped.
Wages
Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS Survey
Hours & Benefits
Both public and private schools provide health and leave benefits. Teachers in public schools work a minimum of six hours a day in the classroom for a nine month school year. Some districts have year round classes where teachers work for 45 days followed by 15 days off throughout the year. Teachers work many hours in non-teaching functions. They plan lessons, confer with parents and resource teachers and participate in PTA activities. On their own time, they attend continuing education classes and seminars to qualify for credential renewal.
Employment Trends, California
| Employment 1998 |
176,200 |
| Projected Employment 2008 |
220,900 |
| Growth Rate 1998-2008 |
25.4% |
| Openings due to Separations |
45,900 |
Employment Trends, San Joaquin County
| Employment 1999 |
3,330 |
| Projected Employment 2006 |
3,900 |
| Percent Change 1999-2006 |
17.1% |
| Separations 1999-2006 |
570 |
Employment Trends by California County
Working Conditions
Working conditions vary from town to town and school to school. Some teachers have the advantage of working in well stocked, spacious, air-conditioned rooms, but others who work in poorer school districts do not enjoy these amenities.
Advancement
Promotion for most teachers consists of regular salary increases. Administrative positions require teaching experience, advanced study, and additional credentials.
For a list of current job listing, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank. |
|
BA degree from a regionally accredited college
California Basic Education Test (CBEST)
Teacher Preparation Program
Education course work
Student teaching
Teaching of reading
U.S. Constitution education
- AND
Fifth year post graduate work (Additional 30 units)
Special education mainstreaming
Health education, including CPR certificate
Computer education
Student teachers should be aware of licensing and exam fees. In California, application fees are about $70.00. Fees for the exams, including CBEST and PRAXIS, are about $105.00. Additional fees include scoring reports and fingerprint clearance which can amount to $90.00. Credential renewals are about $65.00.
Students who complete their bachelor's degree, but do not complete the additional fifth year for a "professional clear credential" get a "preliminary credential", valid for two to five years. To obtain a "professional clear credential" teachers must complete the 5th year which includes a teacher preparation program of 30 units beyond a bachelor's. The "prep" program teaches health, computer, and special education.
Skills & Other Requirements
Elementary Teachers need enthusiasm, creativity and a great deal of patience. Teaching strategies place particular emphasis on such qualities as respect for individual differences, ability to work closely with others, and classroom management skills.
Getting the Job & Other Information
Recent graduates or teachers who have relocated may find that substitute teaching provides the best entry opportunity and often leads to a permanent position. Teachers willing to relocate to remote rural areas and those who specialize in bilingual/cross cultural, early childhood, and special education may have the best prospects.
Job seekers should register with their college placement office and apply directly to district offices and private schools. Most hiring takes place between June and October.
Many new teachers work as substitute teachers to gain classroom experience and district recognition.
References
California Occupational Guide: Teachers, Elementary School #10
Related Occupations: Teachers, Elementary School #57, Teachers, Special Education #110
Training: California Training and Education Providers (CTEP) |
