Why Teach Elementary Education?

American children spend approximately half of their K-12 educational years in elementary school. Typically, elementary schools instruct children from the time they are in kindergarten until they finish fifth (or sometimes sixth) grade. It makes sense, then, that skilled elementary educators are of vital importance in school districts. If you are passionate about teaching children to love learning and want to make a difference in one of the most formative periods of their life, then the field of elementary education may be a good fit for you.  

At Concordia University, Nebraska, the elementary education major is a program of study that prepares students to become well-rounded teachers who can serve in public, private, and parochial schools, displaying Christ’s love toward diverse groups of young students. Students who wish to serve in a Lutheran or Christian setting may choose to pursue a Lutheran or Christian Teacher Diploma. Both options further students’ knowledge of theology and provide unique preparation to share their faith with students in parochial schools. 

So, why should you consider teaching elementary education? If you are a flexible, sociable, and compassionate student who wants to encourage a love of learning in children’s early lives, there are many great reasons to pursue a bachelor’s degree in the field.  

Teaching all subjects – especially in parochial schools! 

You might be interested in becoming a teacher but aren’t sure that you want to spend your professional life teaching students about any single subject. Great news – as an elementary educator, you will most likely be responsible for teaching most, if not all, of the major school subjects to your young students! This is a big responsibility: for an entire school year, you will be the main person responsible for a group of children’s education, learning, and academic enjoyment. It’s a lot to take on. However, being able to find joy in this task is what makes elementary educators unique! You’re even more likely to play this multifaceted role in smaller parochial schools, which often don’t employ as many specialized educators. 

You’ll always be in demand 

The American population is always growing, which means that a constant supply of families with young children keeps elementary schools “in business.” This is fantastic news for prospective elementary educators. Plus, elementary schools are everywhere, meaning you could teach anywhere from the southern tip of Florida to the northernmost point of rural Alaska. The salary is also fairly stable; elementary educators make, on average, $50,000 in a private setting and $60,000 in public education, which varies only slightly by region or school district. Teaching is also a field with job security; from 2000-2010, about 84% of teachers planned to stay in the profession.  

Elementary school is a life-shaping experience for kids 

As an elementary school teacher, you will be the primary influence in your students’ day-to-day life during an entire school year. There is a reason secondary and postsecondary students, as well as adults, will often cite specific memories from their elementary school years – and memories relating to their elementary school teachers! During the early school years, kids are developing fast. They are learning not only the most foundational of academic skills, but also developmental skills, such as listening, persisting despite challenges, and problem-solving. Effective educators can make a monumental difference in their students’ early lives by shaping these skills while offering feedback and encouragement.  

There are opportunities for you beyond the classroom 

Professional growth and development opportunities are significant in any career, but especially in education. Fortunately, elementary educators are never short on chances to learn more about their chosen field. From conferences to seminars and workshops, teachers can grow their skills at the district, state, or even national level. Education is always changing, and teachers are at the forefront of that change. New technologies, new curricula, and new teaching methods are just a few of the options about which educators can learn and subsequently implement in their classrooms.  

How Concordia sets you up for success  

At Concordia, elementary education is a popular major with a 100% outcome rate of students attending graduate school or joining the workforce within six months of graduation. Along with the basic education courses you’ll be able to complete in Concordia’s elementary education program, you will have the opportunity to specialize in a field like art, science, physical education, or even American Sign Language! The program will also prepare you to continue your education in graduate school. Students who earn a bachelor’s degree in elementary education may choose to pursue a master’s degree in special education, school counseling, educational administration, or a variety of other closely related fields.  

Despite the multitude of professional and practical reasons to pursue an elementary education degree, the real reward of a career in the field, ultimately, is the people you will serve. Elementary school-age children come to school ready to learn and grow under the instruction of their teacher, who is a role model and a primary source of guidance. So many people look back fondly on their elementary school experience and teachers. Why not be a part of the next generation’s memories?  

Interested in studying elementary education at Concordia? Learn more here.