Kindergarten and elementary school teachers held about 1.5 million jobs in 2014.

Kindergarten and elementary school teachers work in public and private schools.

Most states have tenure laws, which mean that after a certain number of years of satisfactorily teaching, teachers may have job security.

Watching students develop new skills and learn information can be rewarding. However, teaching may be stressful. Some schools have large classes and lack important teaching tools, such as computers and up-to-date textbooks. Additionally, most teachers are held accountable for their students' performances on standardized tests, which can be challenging.

Work Schedules

Kindergarten and elementary school teachers generally work during school hours when students are present. They may meet with parents, students, and other teachers before and after school. They often spend time in the evenings and on weekends grading papers and preparing lessons.

Many kindergarten and elementary school teachers work the traditional 10-month school year and have a 2-month break during the summer. Some teachers may teach summer programs. Teachers in districts with a year-round schedule typically work 8 weeks in a row then have a break for 1 week before starting a new schooling session. They also have a 5-week midwinter break.