Start a Career of an Elementary School Teacher in Texas
Elementary school teaching is a cool profession for those who value making a difference, creativity, building relationships, professional growth, and a sense of community. If you are from Texas and thinking about mastering this occupation, continue reading this article.
To become an elementary school teacher in Texas, you will need to complete the following steps:
- Obtain a bachelor's degree: You will need to have a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in order to be eligible for a teaching certification in Texas.
- Complete a teacher preparation program: You will need to complete a teacher preparation program that is approved by the Texas State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC). This program will typically include student teaching, coursework in teaching methods and education theory, and a passing score on the Texas Examinations of Educator Standards (TExES).
- Pass the TExES: You will need to pass the TExES examination in your subject area, which for elementary school teachers includes the EC-6 Generalist exam.
- Apply for certification: Once you have completed the above steps, you can apply for certification with the SBEC. You will need to submit your application, official transcripts, and passing scores on the TExES.
- Fingerprinting and background check: You will also need to submit fingerprints and pass a background check as a part of the certification process.
- Continuing Education: Texas requires educators to complete continuing education hours in order to renew their certification.
It is important to note that while the above steps are the general requirements to become an elementary school teacher in Texas, specific requirements may vary depending on the district and school where you plan to teach, so it is best to check with the individual school district for specific requirements.
How much money does an Elementary School Teacher make in Texas?
The average salary for an elementary school teacher in Texas is around $54,000 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, the exact amount an elementary school teacher earns in Texas can vary depending on several factors, such as experience, location, and education level. Teachers with advanced degrees and years of experience may earn higher salaries, while those working in larger cities or more affluent school districts may also earn more. It's also worth noting that teacher salaries in Texas are lower compared to the national average. To get a more accurate estimate of the salary you can expect as an elementary school teacher in Texas, it's recommended to research salaries in your specific area and consider factors such as the cost of living and the local job market.
What are the pluses of becoming an Elementary School Teacher in Texas?
Here are some benefits of becoming an elementary school teacher in Texas:
- Job stability: Texas is a large state with a growing population, which means that there is a high demand for qualified teachers.
- Competitive salaries: Texas teachers earn an average salary of around $52,000, which is competitive with other states.
- Professional development opportunities: The Texas Education Agency (TEA) offers various professional development opportunities for teachers to improve their skills and knowledge.
- Retirement benefits: Texas teachers are eligible for the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS), which provides retirement, disability, and survivor benefits.
- Summer break: Texas teachers generally get the summer off and have longer breaks during the year.
- Diverse population: Texas is a culturally diverse state with a large number of students from different backgrounds, which can be a rewarding experience for teachers
Please note that the above benefits may vary depending on the region and district you are teaching in. It is always recommended to check with the Texas Education Agency to confirm the information and check for any recent changes.