Starting Salary For Elementary Teachers In California: It is truly not simple to become a licensed elementary school teacher in California. There are a number of accreditation procedures, continuing education requirements and examinations you must successfully pass before landing a job as an elementary school teacher. Most of the schools prefer teachers who are certified by National Board of Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS).
These 2018-2019 starting salaries for elementary teachers can help you understand what to expect when entering the workforce as an elementary school teacher in California. The median annual salary for elementary school teachers with a bachelor’s degree was $51,890 in 2016.
Starting Salary For Elementary Teachers In California Overview
An elementary school teacher is tasked with creating a welcoming classroom environment and keeping it under control. The job of the elementary school teacher is to lay the foundation for future learning by teaching the basics of subjects like comprehension, math, science, and social studies. They develop and implement lesson plans in the classroom and establishes and enforces classroom and school rules. Furthermore, they prepare students for standardized tests and observes and reviews their performance. Similarly, they grade student’s homework and tests and keep parents updated about their children’s welfare.
While each state has its licensure requirements, most require a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Applicants must have at least two years of teaching experience and passed a competency test. You must possess organization, listening, and communication skills. You must also be able to control a classroom. Elementary school teachers earn an average salary of $53,172 per annum. It ranges between $36,000 and $79,000.
So you just graduated from college and found out that you’ll be getting a job as an elementary school teacher in California. Congratulations! You’re going to have a great time at your new job. But before you start, let’s talk about what you can expect for your starting salary for teachers in California.
The average starting salary for elementary school teachers in California is $54,000 per year. That’s about $4,000 more than the national average for starting salaries for teachers, so it’s definitely something to celebrate. However, keep in mind that this figure is based on the median income for all elementary school teachers throughout the state—not just those who are newbies like yourself.
You might want to compare this figure with other areas of the country if you haven’t already done so; if your area has a higher cost of living than others do, then it might be worth looking at other places where costs are lower before making any decisions about where you want to live or work in order to get more bang for your buck while saving up money!
California Elementary School Teacher Requirements
Aspiring elementary school teachers need to hold a bachelor’s degree and complete a teacher certification program. They must pass several specific examinations to obtain California’s Multiple Subject Teaching Credential for elementary teachers. Find out more details below.
| Education Required | Bachelor’s degree with an approved teacher education program; US Constitution course |
| Exams Required | The California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST); The California Subject Examination for Teachers (CSET); Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA) |
| License Validity Period | 5 years |
| Advancement Requirements | A clear credential that must be renewed every five years |
| Annual Mean Wage (2018)* | $80,100 (California elementary school teacher) |
| Projected Job Growth (2016-2026)* | 7% (elementary teachers, nationwide) |
Source: *US Bureau of Labor Statistics
Education Requirements
The minimum requirement for an individual to become an elementary school teacher is to have a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. Students with a bachelor’s degree in another subject can also become elementary school teachers by completing a teacher education program and obtaining the relevant certification. Teacher education programs include a student teaching assignment, the duration of which is typically one semester. California also requires that the teacher education program selected includes approved courses in English language skills, reading and instruction in computer technology, and health education.
Candidates are also required to complete a course (two semester units or three quarter units) in the provisions and principles of the US Constitution or pass an examination at a regionally-accredited college or university. Finally, candidates must obtain a formal recommendation by the program sponsor.
Testing Requirements
Prospective elementary teachers in California must successfully pass the following exams:
California Basic Assessment Educational Skills Test (CBEST): This exam tests proficiency in some basic skills such as reading, mathematics, and writing. To pass the CBEST, individuals must score 41 points in each of the three sections: reading, mathematics, and writing. A score of 37 may be allowed as well.
California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET): These exams verify subject-matter competency. They are comprised of three subtests that consist of multiple-choice and constructed-response items. The three subtests measure skills and knowledge in the following subjects and domains: Science, Mathematics, Reading/Language/Literature, History/Social Science, Physical Education, Human Development, and Visual and Performing Acts. The passing score is 220 points on each subtest. The CSET exams have been modified to include an assessment of basic writing skills. If completed successfully, the CSET: Writing Skills examination fulfills the California basic skills requirement.
Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA): Individuals who have completed a teacher preparation program including a student teaching assignment, are exempt from this requirement.
Certification Requirements
Successful candidates that meet the above requirements earn a preliminary credential for five years. To get a clear credential, individuals must either complete a Commission-approved Teacher Induction Program or are certified by the National Board of Professional Teaching Standards in one of the qualifying subjects of Early Childhood (ages 3 – 8)/Generalist or Middle Childhood (ages 7 – 12)/Generalist. The clear credential must be renewed every five years.
How much does a Teacher Elementary School make in California?
The average Teacher Elementary School salary in California is $68,483 as of July 26, 2022, but the range typically falls between $56,198 and $82,711. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on the city and many other important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession.
how much do Elementary School Teachers make?
The average total salary for a Elementary School Teacher is $54,500 per year. This is based on data from 742 TurboTax users who reported their occupation as Elementary School Teacher and includes taxable wages, tips, bonuses, and more. Elementary School Teacher salary can vary between $21,000 to $90,500 depending on factors including education, skills, experience, employer & location.
