How to Become an Elementary School Teacher: Steps, Requirements and Timeline
| 5 Min Read
Deciding to work in a classroom starts with a desire to help kids grow. While being motivated is a great first step, getting there means hitting some specific goals along the way. Breaking the process down into smaller pieces makes the idea of teaching feel much more realistic. The online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Elementary Education program from Brenau University helps aspiring educators get ready for the classroom while keeping up with their lives.
This online program focuses on the day-to-day realities of a school year. Students learn how to manage a room full of energetic kids while teaching lessons that follow state guidelines. By focusing on what schools need, the program makes sure graduates feel prepared to step into their classroom with a solid foundation.
What Does an Elementary School Teacher Do?
Teachers in grades K–6 handle the basic subjects of math, reading, science and social studies. A teacher might lead a morning session on reading, then spend the afternoon on math or explaining how the weather works. Because they stay with the same group of students all day, these educators see where a child struggles and where they thrive.
Aside from teaching, they also prepare lessons and talk to parents. Teachers spend time outside of class hours grading work, planning lessons and meeting with families to talk about progress.
What Education Do You Need to Become an Elementary School Teacher?
Georgia requires public school teachers to have at least a four-year degree before they can lead a classroom. A Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education is the standard route because it focuses on how younger children learn. This program covers how children grow socially and mentally, helping future teachers understand different learning styles.
Students also learn how to design lessons that keep kids interested and how to handle a busy classroom environment. A big part of the experience is student teaching, which puts students in a school alongside a mentor with years of experience.
How Do You Get Certified to Teach Elementary School?
Once the degree is finished, the next step is getting a state-issued certificate, according to the Georgia Professional Standards Commission. Public schools require this certification to make sure a teacher has met the standards needed to work with children. Georgia requires proof of graduation, a background check and a passing score on the Georgia Assessment for the Certification of Educators (GACE). Unlike many other states, Georgia does not require the Praxis — the GACE has been the standard for Georgia teacher certification for over a decade.
Brenau’s BS in Elementary Education embeds GACE preparation directly into its coursework, with course content aligned to what candidates will see on the exam. Most semesters, Brenau graduates achieve a 100% passing rate on the GACE.
The certification shows which grades a person is allowed to teach, such as K–6 or K–8. For those who already have a degree but want to switch careers, Georgia offers alternative certification pathways that allow candidates to leverage prior education while fulfilling the remaining requirements.
How Long Does It Take to Become an Elementary School Teacher?
For most, the process takes about four years if starting a bachelor’s degree from the beginning. This timeline covers the classes required by the university as well as training for the education major. The final year is almost always the most intense, since it includes full-time student teaching.
Online options have changed this process, especially for those who already have college credits to transfer. Flexible pacing lets students take more or fewer classes depending on their own schedule. While student teaching still requires being physically present in a Georgia school, the rest of the coursework can be completed at a speed that fits the student’s life.
What Makes an Online Elementary Education Program a Good Choice for Working Adults?
Online learning is a way for people to move to a new career without having to quit their current job right away. Students can log in to their classes late at night or on weekends, which is helpful for those with families. This means living far away from a physical campus doesn’t have to stop someone from earning a degree.
This experience has the same professional results as a traditional program. Students will still complete their student teaching in Georgia schools near where they live, so they get the hands-on practice they need. Note that because student teaching placements are conducted in Georgia schools, this program is designed for Georgia residents. For those interested in this path, Brenau’s online BS in Elementary Education is an excellent way to get started.
Starting a Career in the Classroom
The path to the front of a classroom is attainable for anyone willing to put in the work. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, starting salaries in GA are typically around $40,000 but all districts add supplemental pay on top of the state minimum. Of course, upon hire, you are eligible for the Teacher Retirement System (TRS) and all eligible benefits including state health care.
There’s always a need for teachers, and the difference this work makes in students’ lives is lasting. By choosing this online program, future teachers can start their journey today.
Learn more about Brenau University’s online Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education program.