ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TEACHERS teach children from Kindergarten to fifth, sixth, or eighth grade (depending on the school system). Many teach a variety of subjects, from history to reading to science. Others specialize in one content area. Most teach in public schools and about 10 percent work in private schools. From coast to coast, rural village to metropolitan hub, there are schools in need of motivated teachers. The best part of being an elementary school teacher is inspiring children and seeing them grow and develop as learners and people. If you enjoy spending time with children you will find this to be a very rewarding career. Every day involves new adventures - some good, some bad. This is a job that will keep you on your toes. You will need to be creative, patient, energetic, and social. Strong communications skills are also a must. The nine-month school year allows teachers a long summer vacation in which to rest and recharge, travel, or work a second job. Their regular workweek also allows some extra time off in comparison to office jobs. The elementary school day typically runs from 8:00 or 9:00 in the morning, to 2:00 or 3:00 in the afternoon. Salaries are modest, but they are improving, and full-time teachers do enjoy good benefits packages. There will be an increase in the number of jobs over the next decade. You can get a teaching job with a bachelor's degree and certification earned through student teaching, and an exam. In college, there are two options. One is to major in elementary education, and the other is to major in a content area such as math and take additional education courses. Some school districts require their teachers to hold a master's degree, but this is not usually the case. However, teachers must take continuing education courses throughout their career to maintain certification. Good elementary school teachers understand that children are the future. As a teacher, you have the opportunity to make an enormous difference in the lives of your students and their families. In fact, you may be one of the most influential people in a child's life. If you are up for the challenges and joys of teaching, read on to learn more about how to become an elementary school teacher!