If you are wondering how to become a kindergarten teacher in the US, you need to understand the educational requirements. These include the courses you must take, what to expect from a job as a kindergarten teacher and the salary range. In addition, this profession demands a lot of patience and empathy.
Educational requirements for a kindergarten teacher
There are several educational requirements to become a kindergarten teacher. These teachers are responsible for developing a child’s basic skills, such as counting, drawing, and letter recognition. They may also use technology and other resources to engage students in activities and learning. The job also involves maintaining classroom order and communicating with parents to keep them informed.
Education requirements for kindergarten teachers vary across states. However, there are some common requirements in most states. To be eligible for teaching jobs in kindergartens, an individual must complete a teacher preparation program that is approved by the state in which they plan to teach. Some programs require a bachelor’s degree while others do not. To find out the exact requirements for your state, do some research online.
Required courses
If you want to become a kindergarten teacher in the US, there are some mandatory courses you should complete. Public schools are free and supported by state and federal funds. They are governed by a state board of education and the U.S. Department of Education, while private schools are usually privately run. Most private schools require teacher licensure, though some do not. You should contact the prospective school to verify what courses they require.
After completing your Bachelor’s degree, you may choose to pursue graduate studies in early childhood education. This will help you broaden your knowledge of the field. Graduate coursework may also involve research in the field of teaching. This can add an extra one or two years to your education. Besides the required courses, a successful candidate will also need to possess a passion for working with young children. Teachers should also be patient, creative, and empathic.
The salary range for a kindergarten teacher
Salary ranges for Kindergarten teachers vary considerably, depending on where you live and the specific job requirements. In general, salaries increase as experience increases. Some teachers may specialize in specific subjects, such as literacy or special education. In such a case, your salary may be lower compared to other teachers in the same grade level.
In the US, the average salary for a kindergarten teacher is $60,210 per year, or $1,158 per week, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest quarter of kindergarten teachers earns less than $879 per week, while the highest 25 percent make at least $1,374 a week.
Getting a job as a kindergarten teacher
If you are interested in teaching children in a public school, you may be interested in becoming a kindergarten teacher. As of 2018, 154,400 kindergarten teachers were working in the US. CareerExplorer rates this profession as having a C employability rating, which means there is moderate employment growth. The number of kindergarten teachers is expected to increase by 17,600 by 2026, based on projected retirements and new hires.
Kindergarten teachers typically work full-time during regular school hours. This means they have about 40 hours of class time per week. However, some teachers may choose to work part-time, which allows them more flexibility in their schedules. This allows them to spend extra time with their families, or on other projects. It also allows them more time to prepare for classes. Kindergarten teachers typically work for the full 10-month school year, including summer and winter breaks.