Kindergarten and elementary school teachers instruct young students in basic subjects in order to prepare them for future schooling.
A four-year university degree in education or elementary education is required for this position. In addition, public school teachers must have a state-issued certification or license.
Overall employment of kindergarten and elementary school teachers is projected to grow 4 percent from 2019 to 2029, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Rising student enrollment should increase demand for kindergarten and elementary teachers, but employment growth will vary by region.
Kindergarten and elementary school teachers work in public and private schools. They generally work during school hours when students are present and use nights and weekends to prepare lessons and grade papers. Most kindergarten and elementary school teachers do not work during the summer.