Kindergarten teachers can have a rewarding job, but it’s not easy. In addition to dealing with the challenge of teaching young children and their explosive personalities, kindergarten teachers must also be patient and caring. New teachers need to understand what they can expect from this career and its pros and cons. Read on to learn more about how much a kindergarten teacher makes.
What Is a Kindergarten Teacher?
A kindergarten teacher is someone who teaches young children of a variety of ages and developmental stages. These teachers often work in kindergarten classrooms and might also teach preschool. Some kindergarten teachers also focus on special education, and others work in after-school programs or summer camps.
Kindergarten teachers often have a master’s degree in early childhood education. They might also have a bachelor’s degree, but that’s less common. Requirements may vary by state and employer, so you should check with the specific school district or company where you want to work.
Teachers in this position are expected to use creative and engaging methods to draw young children into learning. They may find that their job is a bit different from what they expected, so they may want to read on to find out more.
How Much Do Kindergarten Teachers Make? Let’s Find Out!
The amount of money you can make as a kindergarten teacher may depend on several factors, including the state where you teach, the school district where you work, and your years of experience. Teachers in kindergarten usually earn a median annual salary of about $50,000.
The best-paid 10 percent of kindergarten teachers earn over $77,000 annually, while the lowest-paid 10 percent earn less than $35,000 annually. Those who work in preschool settings earn slightly less. The salary for an elementary school teacher will vary depending on the state you live in. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for an elementary school teacher is $59,000.
The highest-paid elementary school teachers are those who work in New York, Massachusetts, and Connecticut, making an average of $77,000 per year. The lowest-paid elementary school teachers work in Wyoming, Mississippi, and South Dakota, making an average of $47,000 per year.
Pros of Being a Kindergarten Teacher
Flexible hours: Some public school teachers have very set hours, but others have more flexibility. If you have a child with special needs, you may be able to adjust your workload to attend doctor’s appointments, therapy sessions, or other important events.
Rewarding career: Children’s faces light up when they learn new things and improve their skills. This is a very fulfilling feeling for teachers, and it can also be great for your self-esteem.
Good benefits: Many kindergarten teachers receive health insurance, a retirement plan, and paid time off.
Good salary: The average kindergarten teacher’s salary is about $59,000 annually. You may also be eligible for raises and bonuses based on your experience and achievements.
Cons of Being a Kindergarten Teacher
High stress: A kindergarten teacher’s workday is often long and full of challenging situations. This is especially true in the early years when kids are more prone to tantrums, crying, and other disruptive behaviors.
It’s important to remember that kids are just exploring the world around them, so you shouldn’t take their behavior personally as an insult to you.
Not for everyone: Many people would love to be kindergarten teachers but struggle with the emotional demands of the job. This may mean you cannot finish an entire year because you’re burned out or not a good fit for this profession.