Elementary Teacher Careers: Demand, Pathways and Advancement in 2025

Elementary teacher careers remain one of the most stable and meaningful professions, despite shortages in the U.S. and worldwide. Elementary teachers lay the foundation for lifelong learning by teaching core skills like reading, writing, and numeracy.

Elementary school teachers lay the foundation for a lifetime of learning. They foster the curiosity of children in their formative years and teach core skills such as reading, writing, numeracy and collaboration. In the United States and around the world, however, there are not enough qualified teachers to meet current and projected needs. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that although employment for kindergarten and elementary teachers is projected to decline slightly (‑2 percent) between 2024 and 2034, school districts will need to fill roughly 103,800 openings each year to replace retirees and teachers who leave the profession. In parallel, the Learning Policy Institute’s 2025 scan found that one in eight teaching positions is either vacant or staffed by someone who is not fully certified, affecting more than six million students across the country. On a global scale, UNESCO estimates that nearly 69 million new teachers are needed by 2030 to achieve universal basic education.

Against this backdrop, elementary teaching offers job security, meaningful work and clear pathways into and through the profession. This guide uses up‑to‑date data to explore the demand for elementary teachers, outline how to become one (including traditional and alternative routes), and describe career advancement opportunities. It follows a similar structure to the Teaching Careers: Paths, Opportunities, and What to Expect document but focuses specifically on the elementary level.

The Demand for Elementary Teachers National Trends

Teacher shortages have been a persistent issue across grade levels, but the impact is especially acute in elementary schools. According to the Learning Policy Institute’s 2025 national scan, about 1 in 8 teaching positions in the United States is either unfilled or filled by a teacher who lacks full certification. This translates to roughly 6 million students being taught by under‑qualified educators or facing larger class sizes. The report also notes that shortages have continued to rise, with 411,500 positions either vacant or held by not fully certified teachers—a 4,600‑position increase over the previous year. While shortages vary by state, subjects such as special education, ESL, mathematics and science remain high‑need areas.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provides additional context. Although overall employment of kindergarten and elementary teachers is projected to decline 2 percent from 2024 to 2034, the BLS estimates that roughly 103,800 openings will occur each year. These openings arise primarily because experienced teachers retire or leave the profession, not because positions are eliminated. In 2024 there were about 1.4 million elementary teaching positions in local public schools and roughly 117,200 kindergarten positions. The median salary for elementary teachers (except special education) was $62,340 per year, with wages typically higher in local public schools than in private schools.

State and global considerations

Teacher shortages are not uniform across states. Some jurisdictions—Arizona, Florida, Utah and parts of California—report hundreds or even thousands of vacancies each year. In Mississippi, the number of emergency or provisional licenses fell by 54 percent between 2021–22 and 2023–24, yet the state still had nearly 3,000 unfilled positions in fall 2024. Meanwhile, Arizona’s shortage increased by more than 60 percent in three years; in 2023–24, more than 8,000 teachers were working on emergency or provisional credentials, and over 2,200 teaching positions remained vacant. These disparities highlight the importance of state‑specific policies related to compensation, licensing and professional support.

Globally, the shortage of qualified educators is even more severe. UNESCO estimates that 69 million additional teachers are needed by 2030 to meet the Sustainable Development Goal of universal basic education. Many countries struggle to retain teachers due to low pay, poor working conditions and limited professional autonomy. While U.S. teacher shortages may seem modest in comparison to global figures, international data serve as a reminder that teacher recruitment and retention are worldwide challenges.

Factors driving demand

Several factors contribute to the ongoing demand for elementary teachers:

• Retirements and attrition: Many veteran teachers are reaching retirement age. Others leave due to burnout, stagnant wages, rising workloads or better opportunities in other fields.
• Student enrollment: Population growth, particularly in the Sun Belt and urban areas, increases demand for elementary teachers. Even when overall employment growth is flat, new schools open in growing communities.
• Specialized needs: Federal and state laws requiring services for English learners and students with disabilities mean that elementary schools need teachers with specific certifications (e.g., ESL or special education).
• Policy initiatives: Class‑size reduction policies and early‑childhood education expansions create new positions. When states invest in universal pre‑K or all‑day kindergarten, they typically hire more elementary educators.
• Pandemic impacts: The COVID‑19 pandemic exacerbated teacher shortages by accelerating retirements and departures. It also highlighted the importance of digital literacy and socio‑emotional learning, spurring demand for teachers trained in these areas.

How to Start Your Elementary Teacher Career

Becoming an elementary teacher involves several steps, which can be completed through a traditional university route or an alternative certification program. While requirements vary by state, the following pathway offers a broad overview.

1. Decide on grade level and subject focus

Elementary teachers typically teach multiple subjects to one class of students in grades K–5 or K–6. Some districts pair teachers to specialize in math/science and English/social studies. Decide whether you want to work with younger elementary children (kindergarten and first grade) or upper elementary grades, and consider whether you wish to specialize in areas like reading intervention, science enrichment or bilingual education. Your choice will influence the courses and exams you need to take.

2. Earn a bachelor’s degree

Public elementary teachers must hold a bachelor’s degree, usually in elementary education. Private schools often have the same requirement. Some states require teachers to major in a content area (e.g., mathematics) and complete an education minor. Prospective teachers who already have a degree in another subject can still enter the profession by completing a post‑baccalaureate teacher preparation program or an alternative certification program. Teacher education programs include coursework on pedagogy, child development and classroom management and culminate in a supervised student‑teaching experience.

3. Complete a teacher preparation program or alternative certification

Traditional teacher preparation programs are embedded within undergraduate degrees or offered as standalone post‑baccalaureate certificates. They include field placements and align coursework with state teaching standards. For career changers or individuals with non‑education degrees, alternative certification programs provide a streamlined path into teaching. The Teachers of Tomorrow program is one example. It offers flexible online coursework, test preparation and one‑on‑one mentorship, allowing participants to balance training with full‑time work. Many alternative programs were introduced in response to national teacher shortages and help professionals transition into high‑need subjects. They can be completed more quickly than traditional routes—in some cases within a year or even as little as three months—and often include paid, supervised teaching placements.

Alternative certification candidates generally:

1. Hold a bachelor’s degree in any field.
2. Enroll in an approved alternative certification program and complete required online or in‑person coursework.
3. Complete a period of student teaching or paid internship while under the supervision of a mentor.
4. Pass state teacher certification exams.
5. Apply for provisional or full state licensure.

Some states allow candidates to begin teaching with a provisional license once they have completed preliminary coursework and passed a basic skills test. Others require more extensive preparation before candidates take charge of a classroom. Check with your state’s Department of Education for specific requirements.

4. Pass state licensure exams and background checks

All states require public school teachers to be licensed or certified in the grade level they teach. Licensing generally involves:

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited program.
• Completion of a teacher preparation program (traditional or alternative) with student teaching experience.
• Successful performance on a general teaching knowledge exam (e.g., Praxis Core) and subject‑area tests.
• A criminal background check and fingerprinting.

Many states also mandate continuing education for license renewal. Some require teachers to earn a master’s degree within a certain number of years after initial certification.

5. Apply for teaching positions

Once you hold a valid license, you can apply for jobs in public, charter or private schools. Competition varies by district and specialty. High‑need areas (special education, STEM, bilingual education) may offer signing bonuses or tuition reimbursement. School systems often post openings months before the school year begins, but mid‑year vacancies arise due to attrition or population shifts.

6. Pursue ongoing professional development

Teaching is a profession that demands continual growth. States frequently require teachers to complete professional development hours or credits to maintain their certification. Districts offer workshops on technology integration, literacy intervention, classroom management and culturally responsive pedagogy. Joining professional organizations such as the National Education Association or state teacher associations provides networking opportunities, legal support and resources for staying current.

Skills and Qualities of Effective Elementary Teachers

Elementary teaching requires more than subject knowledge. The BLS lists several qualities critical for success:

• Communication skills: Teachers must explain complex concepts in ways young students can understand and communicate clearly with parents and colleagues.
• Patience: Working with students of varying abilities and backgrounds requires patience and empathy.
• Physical stamina: Elementary teachers spend long hours on their feet and must maintain energy to guide active children.
• Resourcefulness and adaptability: Teachers need to engage students through hands‑on activities and be prepared to adjust lessons to meet diverse needs.
• Classroom management: Developing classroom rules and managing behavior are essential tasks.
• Technology competence: Modern classrooms use digital tools; teachers must be comfortable with technology to support instruction.

Beyond these attributes, successful teachers demonstrate cultural competence, compassion and a commitment to equity. Many elementary classrooms include multilingual students and children with learning differences. Teachers must differentiate instruction, collaborate with special education teachers and advocate for each child.

Daily Work and Work Environment

Beyond the big-picture rewards, it’s important to understand what teaching looks like day to day. Elementary teachers balance lesson planning, instruction, and student growth in a lively, fast-paced environment that can be both challenging and deeply rewarding.

Typical duties

Elementary teachers are responsible for a wide range of tasks. According to the BLS, their duties include creating lesson plans, teaching core subjects (reading, math, science and social studies), observing and assessing student abilities, grading assignments, communicating with parents and enforcing classroom rules. They may work with small groups or the whole class and often escort students to activities taught by specialists (e.g., art or music). Teachers also help students develop social skills and critical‑thinking strategies by engaging them in discussions and hands‑on projects.

Teachers collaborate with other educators and support staff, including special education teachers, ESL teachers and instructional coaches. They plan lessons during prep periods, grade assignments after school and meet with parents as needed. The work environment is dynamic and can be noisy, but many teachers find joy in watching students gain confidence and master new skills.

Schedule and workload

Elementary teachers generally work the traditional 10‑month school year, followed by a two‑month summer break. They also enjoy short mid‑winter holidays. Teachers in year‑round districts typically work nine weeks followed by a three‑week break. Although school days follow set hours (often 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.), teachers spend additional time in the evenings and on weekends preparing lessons and grading.

Class sizes vary widely by district; some states legislate maximum student–teacher ratios, while others allow larger classes due to funding constraints. Teachers in under‑resourced schools often face heavier workloads and limited supplies. These conditions can be taxing, but supportive administrators, mentoring programs and teacher collaboration can alleviate stress.

Salary and Benefits – National wage data for Elementary School Teachers 

According to the BLS, the median annual wage for elementary school teachers (excluding special education) was $62,340 in May 2024. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $46,440, while the top 10 percent earned more than $102,010. Kindergarten teachers earned a similar median wage of $61,430. Wages vary by region, district and teacher qualifications. In local public schools, elementary teachers’ median salary was $63,160, compared with $51,260 at private schools. Pay tends to be higher in urban and suburban districts with strong tax bases and collective bargaining agreements.

Category	Median Annual Salary	Notes
All Elementary Teachers	$62,340	Excludes special education
Kindergarten Teachers	$61,430	Similar to elementary level
Public School Teachers	$63,160	Higher than private schools
Private School Teachers	$51,260	Lower pay, varies by region
Top 10% of Teachers	$102,010+	Experienced or advanced degrees
Bottom 10% of Teachers	$46,440	Entry-level or lower-paying districts

Additional compensation

Many districts offer benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans (often defined‑benefit pensions), paid sick leave and tuition assistance for advanced degrees. Some states provide loan‑forgiveness or grant programs for teachers working in high‑need schools or subject areas. Teachers may also earn stipends for mentoring, coaching sports, advising clubs or taking on leadership roles. In states facing acute shortages, districts have experimented with signing bonuses and relocation incentives to attract new teachers.

Cost‑of‑living considerations

When evaluating salary, prospective teachers should consider local cost of living. In high‑cost areas such as California’s Bay Area or New York City, wages may be higher but housing costs and taxes can erode purchasing power. Teachers often supplement their income through summer work, tutoring or coaching. Many also benefit from union representation, which can lead to stronger pay and benefits packages.

Alternative Certification and Flexible Pathways

The demand for elementary teachers has spurred the growth of non‑traditional pathways into the profession. Alternative certification programs like Teachers of Tomorrow—also called alternative route, intern or residency programs—allow individuals with a bachelor’s degree to become teachers without completing a four‑year education degree. These programs were created to address chronic shortages in certain subjects and geographic areas. 

Key features include:

• Speed and flexibility: Programs may be completed in less than a year, and some (like Teachers of Tomorrow) can prepare candidates to enter the classroom within three months. Coursework is typically offered online and on demand, allowing candidates to work while they study.
• Paid internships: Many alternative programs allow candidates to teach on a provisional license while completing coursework, enabling them to earn a salary.
• Mentorship: Candidates are paired with experienced teachers or instructional coaches who provide guidance and feedback throughout the program.
• Targeted recruitment: Alternative programs often focus on high‑need subjects (e.g., special education, STEM, bilingual education) and under‑served regions. Some states offer financial incentives for participants.

Individuals who benefit most from alternative certification include career changers seeking to enter teaching quickly, recent graduates with degrees outside education and experienced teachers looking to add new credentials. While alternative routes are flexible, they still require candidates to meet state standards, pass certification exams and complete supervised teaching.

Career Advancement and Specialization Growth within the classroom

Elementary teachers can advance while remaining in the classroom. Experienced teachers may become mentor or lead teachers, supporting new colleagues and modeling effective instruction. Lead teachers often receive stipends and take on curriculum planning or professional development duties. Teachers can also earn endorsements in literacy, math or STEM to become specialists who provide targeted interventions for struggling students.

Another route is to obtain a master’s degree in a specialized field, such as reading, special education or educational technology. Advanced degrees may lead to higher pay, additional responsibilities and greater job security. National Board Certification is another credential that recognizes accomplished teachers and can lead to salary increases.

Transition to related roles

With additional education or certification, elementary teachers can move into related positions. Opportunities include becoming a school counselor, school librarian or instructional coordinator. Instructional coordinators design curriculum, train teachers and analyze student data to improve instruction. Teachers interested in school leadership can pursue roles as assistant principals or principals after obtaining credentials in educational administration. These positions typically offer higher salaries but require graduate degrees and several years of classroom experience.

Beyond K–12 education

Elementary teachers who enjoy mentoring adults may transition to positions in teacher preparation programs, professional development or educational consulting. Others pursue careers in educational technology, publishing or community outreach. Because elementary teachers develop strong communication, project management and interpersonal skills, they are well‑positioned for roles outside of K–12 education, including corporate training and nonprofit work.

Challenges and Rewards

While teaching elementary school can be deeply rewarding, it is not without challenges. Schools in under‑resourced communities may have larger classes, outdated materials and limited support staff. Teachers often spend evenings and weekends planning lessons and grading. They must manage classroom behavior, differentiate instruction and meet diverse needs. Low pay relative to other professions with similar education levels and rising housing costs in some regions have contributed to a “teacher pay penalty.” Additionally, teacher autonomy has decreased in some districts due to high‑stakes testing and scripted curricula, which can stifle creativity.

Despite the challenges, many teachers describe their work as profoundly satisfying. They witness students’ academic and personal growth and contribute to their communities. Elementary teachers play a crucial role in closing achievement gaps and fostering lifelong learning skills. During the school year, they enjoy daily interactions with energetic children and often maintain long‑term relationships with families. Summers and mid‑year breaks provide time for rest, travel or professional development. For individuals who value meaningful work, job stability and positive impact, a career in elementary education is highly fulfilling.

Planning Your Path

Elementary teaching remains a cornerstone of the educational system. Although employment growth at the national level is projected to decline modestly, the need to replace retiring teachers and to staff under-resourced schools ensures a steady stream of opportunities. Meanwhile, the persistent shortage of fully certified teachers demonstrates that qualified candidates are in high demand. Prospective teachers should carefully consider their motivations, research state-specific requirements, and select a pathway—traditional or alternative—that aligns with their goals and lifestyle.

Key steps include earning a bachelor’s degree, completing a teacher preparation or alternative certification program, passing licensure exams, and committing to ongoing professional development. For career changers or aspiring educators looking for a flexible, supported entry point, Teachers of Tomorrow offers one of the nation’s leading alternative certification programs, helping thousands of candidates transition successfully into the classroom.

Throughout a career, teachers can advance by taking on leadership roles, specializing in high-need areas, or transitioning to administrative or support positions. Ultimately, elementary teachers shape the academic and social foundation of future generations—an impact that extends far beyond the classroom.