Elementary teachers, assistants, and specialists play a vital role in the development of children. Their early learning experiences often shape their views of themselves and the world and can impact future success in life, school, and work.

Growth and change in the educational process is primarily driven by the goal of preparing students for the future workplace. Students must be able to interact with others, adapt to new technology, and logically think through problems. Traditional teaching methods, such as rote memorization, are increasingly being replaced by interactive discussions and hands-on learning manipulatives that help students apply concepts, solve problems and develop critical thought processes.

The job market for teachers varies widely by geographic area and specialty. In general, the job outlook will be better in inner city and rural areas than in suburban districts. Educators who are willing to relocate and those who are bilingual, specifically in English and Spanish, will have a distinct advantage in finding jobs.

Overall, employment of kindergarten and elementary teachers is expected to increase about as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2008.

Those who work with elementary students should have a genuine interest in young children and a talent for creating a stimulating learning environment. They must be imaginative, innovative, patient, energetic, organized, and able to motivate. Job dedication and a good sense of humor are also essential to longevity and success in this field.

Elementary educators must enjoy finding different ways to solve questions and present information. As new technologies are developed, they must be willing to effectively incorporate them into the classroom as teaching aids.

In addition to delivering lessons, elementary educators must be able to manage other responsibilities, such as planning, evaluating, maintaining discipline, identifying problems in students, and developing good relationships with parents, children and other staff members.

Educational requirements for elementary professionals vary, depending on the level of academic responsibility. Professionals who teach generally need more training than those who perform non-teaching duties. For example, public school teachers must have a bachelor’s degree, teacher education courses, and a state license. Teacher Assistants, however, may need only a high school diploma.

Many schools require previous experience in working with children, and some require applicants to be fluent in two languages.

Working with young students and seeing them develop new skills can be very rewarding. However, this career field can also be frustrating when children are unmotivated, disrespectful, unruly, or even violent. Today’s educators must increasingly deal with large classes, heavy workloads, and children from disadvantaged backgrounds. As schools integrate special education students into general education classrooms, they must also care for the unique needs of children who have disabilities or speak English as a second language.

Many elementary professionals work more than 40 hours a week, including some time outside the classroom. Most work a typical 10-month school year and take a 2-month vacation in summer.