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Academics

Admission & Aid

Learn

Employment

Contact

Education

Education

Teacher

Modern white structure with glass windows reflecting sky

Inspire Lifelong Learning

Guide Student Growth

Shape Future Leaders

Path to completion

Path to completion

Undergraduate

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

4 Semesters

$20k-$60K

Master of Science in Education & Special Education

4 Semesters

$20k-$60K

Post-Graduate

No degrees available

This is the educational pathway. There may be additional tests or licensure requirements necessary before begining to practice in the field. Consult your state guidelines for more. information.

Career Reality

Average Salary
The median annual wage for elementary school teachers was $63,680 in May 2024, and for secondary school teachers $65,220.

Job Market Demand
Employment of elementary and secondary teachers is projected to remain stable through 2033, with openings driven largely by retirements and workforce turnover.

Work Environment
Public and private K–12 schools. Structured school-year schedule with classroom-based instruction and collaboration with faculty.

Common Employers
Public school districts, private schools, charter schools, and religious educational institutions.

Career Advancement
Progression into lead teacher, department chair, instructional coach, assistant principal, or curriculum leadership.

Career Reality

Average Salary
The median annual wage for elementary school teachers was $63,680 in May 2024, and for secondary school teachers $65,220.

Job Market Demand
Employment of elementary and secondary teachers is projected to remain stable through 2033, with openings driven largely by retirements and workforce turnover.

Work Environment
Public and private K–12 schools. Structured school-year schedule with classroom-based instruction and collaboration with faculty.

Common Employers
Public school districts, private schools, charter schools, and religious educational institutions.

Career Advancement
Progression into lead teacher, department chair, instructional coach, assistant principal, or curriculum leadership.

Popular Titles


  • • Elementary School Teacher • Middle School Teacher • High School Teacher • Classroom Teacher • General Education Teacher • Subject Area Teacher • Academic Instructor • Homeroom Teacher • Department Chair

    • Elementary School Teacher • Middle School Teacher • High School Teacher • Classroom Teacher • General Education Teacher • Subject Area Teacher • Academic Instructor • Homeroom Teacher • Department Chair

  • • Elementary School Teacher • Middle School Teacher • High School Teacher • Classroom Teacher • General Education Teacher • Subject Area Teacher • Academic Instructor • Homeroom Teacher • Department Chair

    • Elementary School Teacher • Middle School Teacher • High School Teacher • Classroom Teacher • General Education Teacher • Subject Area Teacher • Academic Instructor • Homeroom Teacher • Department Chair

  • • Elementary School Teacher • Middle School Teacher • High School Teacher • Classroom Teacher • General Education Teacher • Subject Area Teacher • Academic Instructor • Homeroom Teacher • Department Chair

    • Elementary School Teacher • Middle School Teacher • High School Teacher • Classroom Teacher • General Education Teacher • Subject Area Teacher • Academic Instructor • Homeroom Teacher • Department Chair

Core Areas of Impact

How your skills translate into meaningful real-world change

Foster Academic Growth

You guide students in building core knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Foster Academic Growth

You guide students in building core knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Build Meaningful Relationships

You support students’ social and emotional development alongside academics.

Build Meaningful Relationships

You support students’ social and emotional development alongside academics.

Create Structured Learning

You design lessons that promote engagement and measurable progress.

Create Structured Learning

You design lessons that promote engagement and measurable progress.

Is this career right for you?

What is the role of a general educator?
A general educator teaches core academic subjects to students in elementary or secondary schools and supports their overall academic development.

What does a typical day look like?
Planning and delivering lessons, assessing student work, managing classroom routines, collaborating with colleagues, and communicating with families.

Where do general educators work?
General educators work in public and private K–12 schools across elementary, middle, and high school levels.

What are the common job titles and career paths?
Common roles include Classroom Teacher, Subject Area Teacher, and Department Chair. Career paths may lead to instructional coaching, school leadership, or curriculum development.

Who is this career a good fit for?
This career suits individuals who are organized, patient, strong communicators, and committed to supporting student learning.

What are the biggest rewards of this career?
Rewards include long-term influence on student development, meaningful relationships, and consistent community impact.

What does long-term growth look like?
Long-term growth may include leadership roles, curriculum specialization, advanced certification, or school administration.

What is the educational pathway to become a general educator?

To become a general educator, you must earn a bachelor’s degree and obtain state teacher certification in the appropriate grade level or subject area. Most states require completion of a state-approved teacher preparation program and passing licensure exams.

Sara Schenirer’s BA in Psychology with Special Education courses provides a strong foundation in child development, learning theory, and classroom support strategies.

A Master’s in Education and Special Education strengthens instructional expertise and may be required for advanced certification, salary advancement, or leadership opportunities depending on state regulations.

The standard pathway is a bachelor’s degree leading to teacher certification, with graduate study supporting advancement and specialization.

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