Becoming an Elementary Teacher - Steps to Take

Do you wish to learn about the steps involved in becoming an elementary teacher?

Education is a very important tool for any individual. Teachers are charged with the formidable task of making sure that children are equipped to deal with life's problems.

A good foundation sets the stage for future success. This foundation starts in elementary school. Here are some steps to becoming an elementary school teacher.

A key element to becoming an elementary teacher is a desire to teach and a love of working with children. Without these elements, you will not be a successful elementary school teacher.

You must familiarize yourself with the specific requirements for your state as well. Teachers are licensed individuals and the licensure process differs from state to state (and district to district in some states). Each individual school may also have individual requirements in order for you to teach the children enrolled.

In all states, a minimum of a bachelor's degree is needed in order to apply for teaching licensure. Most universities offer a general teaching degree with the option of specializing in certain areas. When looking at universities, chose one that has a solid reputation for training elementary school teachers.

It is important that you are dedicated to your studies and learn as much as possible about how to motivate and educate young learners. Most teaching programs also require that students spend a semester teaching (similar to an internship) under the supervision of a licensed professional.

Once you have completed the teaching program at the university, the next step to becoming an elementary teacher is: you will be required to take one or more tests for licensure. The number of tests you are required to take will depend on the area in which you wish to specialize. For example, if you wish to teach elementary school reading, you may be required to take an extra test on reading program delivery. Also, if you wish to be a special education elementary school teacher, you will be required to pass special education licensure.

After you have become licensed as an elementary school teacher, you will have to continue your education by completing a set number of continuing education credits each year. Again, the number of continuing education hours required vary from state to state and are also dependent upon the area in which you teach.

Another route to becoming an elementary teacher involves a process that is called lateral entry (terminology may vary from state to state). With the lateral entry program, an individual has a bachelor's degree in a discipline other than education; however, they have the desire to teach.

Lateral entry teachers must pass the same licensure exams that an individual with a teaching degree must pass; however, the individual may not be fully licensed immediately. In addition, most lateral entry programs require that the teacher successfully complete a set of courses within one or two years of beginning to teach in order to become fully licensed. In this way, individuals with a bachelor's degree are able to simultaneously work and earn full teaching licensure.

Whatever route you take in becoming an elementary teacher, you will find that the work is rewarding. By becoming an elementary teacher, you are making an impact on the future by shaping its leaders today.

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