Teaching is one of the most well respected careers in the world. It’s also one of most stable—even in a recession. The education industry has grown between three and six percent during past recession years and America’s latest recession seems to have had little impact on employment growth as well. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of kindergarten, elementary, middle, and secondary school teachers is expected to grow by 13 to 16 percent between 2008 and 2018, depending on the specialization. Salary growth is promising as well. In 2004, the average yearly salary for teachers ranged from $41,400 to $45,920. By 2008, this range increased to $47,100 to $51,180. Educators may make more or less depending on the specialization.
Career Specializations in Early Childhood Education
Career specializations in early include childcare workers, preschool teachers, kindergarten and elementary school teachers, education administrators, and postsecondary teachers.
Childcare Workers
According to the latest U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data, childcare workers held around 1.4 million jobs in 2006. Childcare workers help children learn basic concepts through play. Jobs are usually full or part-time and unlike teachers who typically have summers off, childcare workers will work year around as most childcare centers are open throughout the year. Although requirements vary from state to state, in general, childcare workers must have at least a high school diploma or its equivalent.
Preschool Teachers
Preschool teachers must have an associate’s degree at the minimum in order to secure a position. If advancement is a priority, a bachelor’s degree will help you to advance much faster than an associate’s degree alone. Preschool teachers introduce basic skills and concepts through play. Preschool teachers typically work ten months out of the year with two months off in the summer.
Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers
Kindergarten teachers and elementary school teachers must have a bachelor’s degree and a state teacher’s license. Teaching assistants may secure a position with an associate’s degree. Kindergarten and elementary school teachers teach language, math, science, and social studies through a wide variety of instructional methods. Teaching assistants may secure a position with an associate’s degree.
Education Administrators
Education Administrators typically have an advanced degree – a master’s or PhD. They are responsible for the day-to-day operations of child care centers, preschools, and schools. Education administrators manage budgets, oversee staff and curriculum, and they also make sure that the school meets state standards. Staff members in these positions typically work year around (sometimes in the evenings as well), without summer breaks. This is one of the most high profile positions in the early childhood education sector as the position requires appearances at fundraisers and other similar events.
Salaries for Early Childhood Education Careers
Childcare Workers
According to the latest U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data, childcare workers average $17,630-$20,770 per year.
Preschool Teachers
Preschool teachers earn an average annual salary of around $22,680 per year.
Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers
Kindergarten, elementary, middle, and secondary school teachers average around $43,580-$48,690 per year with the lowest 10 percent earning $28,590-$33,070 and the top 10 percent earning $67,490-$76,100.
Education Administrators
Median annual earnings for education administrators range from $67,735-$87,866.
Early Childhood Education License and Certification
To teach in the public school system, you must earn a bachelor’s degree from a teacher education training program. Although the program does not have to be accredited, an accredited program will make fulfilling licensure requirements easier. Many teacher training programs are accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education and the Teacher Education Accreditation Council.
For information about any additional state specific education and licensing requirements, visit the U.S. Department of Education website at www.ed.gov.
