Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Shaping the future
Careers in primary, secondary education offer chance to change lives
Primary and secondary educators play a vital role in the lives of children and young adults from preschool through high school, helping students grow and prepare for later career and life choices.
While teaching may be the most familiar career in education, there are many other professionals who work with students to shape their future.
The following are only a few educational careers. In addition to the educational requirements listed, public schools often require a state-issued certification or license. All median annual wages listed are as of 2016 and are an average of pay scales across the nation; salaries will vary according to location and type of educational facility.
Preschool Teachers
Preschool teachers are employed by public or private schools, child care centers or charitable organizations to educate and care for children, usually ages 3 to 5, who have not started kindergarten.
Some preschool teachers work a traditional 10-month school year, while others are employed year-round. Education requirements vary from a high school diploma and certification to a college degree.
Median annual wage: $28,790
Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers
Kindergarten and elementary school teachers prepare children for further education by teaching basic subjects, such as math and reading. Most work only during the school year. A bachelor’s degree is required for these teachers.
Median annual wage: $55,490
Middle School Teachers
Middle school teachers typically work with students in sixth through eighth grades, building on the fundamentals learned in elementary school.
Middle school teachers must have at least a bachelor’s degree.
Median annual wage: $56,720
High School Teachers
High school teachers help prepare students for life after graduation, whether students are planning to enter the workforce or attend college. Most high school teachers do not teach during the summer. A bachelor’s degree is required; public-school teachers must also have a state-issued certification or license, as well as an academic background in the subject he or she is certified to teach.
Median annual wage: $58,030
Special Education Teachers
Special education teachers work with students who have learning, mental, emotional and/or physical disabilities. These teachers may be employed at any level, from preschool to high school, and must possess at least a bachelor’s degree.
Public schools also require a state-issued certification or license. Many special education teachers work a traditional school year, while others teach year-round. Median annual wage: $57,910
Teacher Assistants
Teacher assistants work under the supervision of a teacher to provide additional attention and instruction for students.
Employment may be either part or full time and is generally only during the school year. Educational requirements range from a high school diploma to an associate degree.
Median annual wage: $25,410
School Counselors
School counselors help students in private or public schools develop social skills and succeed in school. Most counselors must be credentialed and have a master’s degree in school counseling or a related field.
Median annual wage: $54,560
Instructional Coordinators
Instructional coordinators oversee school curriculum and teaching standards, typically working year-round to ensure an educational facility’s effectiveness.
These professionals must possess a master’s degree and related work experience (teaching or school administration); public-school employees may also need a state-issued license. Median annual wage: $62,460
School Principals
Elementary, middle and high school principals are responsible for managing all school operations. They manage daily school activities, coordinate curriculum and oversee teachers and other school staff. Most principals work year-round.
Typically, a master’s degree in education administration or leadership is required; most schools also require that the candidate also have teaching experience. Median annual wage: $92,510
Adult Education Instructors
Adult literacy and high school equivalency diploma teachers instruct adults in basic skills, such as reading, writing and speaking English; they also help adult students earn their high school diplomas. Many of these teachers work part time in a variety of settings, including community centers, public schools and even prisons. Most employers require a bachelor’s degree. Median annual wage: $50,650 — Information from www.bls.gov