Teachers inspire, educate, and push the limits of human potential. Their work extends beyond the classroom as they mentor and set children on the right path, helping them become useful in society.
In Washington State, educators benefit from a vibrant community, breathtaking natural landscapes, and the state’s commitment to progressive education.
The average annual salary of an elementary school teacher in Washington is $91,390. However, various factors influence salaries, which we’ll discuss later.
In this guide, we will discuss the salary of an elementary school teacher in Washington state, the certification requirements, and career prospects. We’ll also loop you in on alternative certification to help you get certified and teaching in a classroom faster.
What Is an Elementary School Teacher?
An elementary school teacher in Washington State is responsible for teaching children in kindergarten through fifth grade. They provide instruction across a range of subjects, including mathematics, language arts, science, and social studies.
Elementary children are commonly aged between 5–12 years. These years are crucial because children experience cognitive, emotional, and social development. Teachers at this level nurture curiosity and encourage children to be more independent.
Elementary school children vary widely in their learning styles, abilities, and backgrounds. Therefore, teachers need to be empathetic and understand how to provide instruction to meet individual needs.
The teachers must also know how to manage a classroom of young children by establishing routines, enforcing discipline, and developing a love of learning.
The daily responsibilities of an elementary school teacher include:
- Designing and preparing lessons that align with curriculum standards and cater to the needs of diverse learners.
- Delivering engaging lessons that promote active learning and facilitate skill development in reading, math, science, and social studies.
- Evaluating student progress through quizzes, tests, projects, and informal observations to gauge understanding and inform instruction.
- Establishing rules and routines, managing student behavior, and creating a positive and inclusive classroom environment.
- Keeping parents informed about student progress, behavior, and upcoming events through newsletters, conferences, and digital platforms.
Elementary school teachers must stay current with teaching methods, educational trends, and curriculum updates. They can achieve this through taking advantage of professional development opportunities offered by the school district or teacher forums.
How Much Does an Elementary Teacher in Washington Make?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary of an elementary school teacher in Washington State is $91,390. This is an average figure, and the wages vary widely, with the highest-earning elementary teacher making $120,440 and the lowest taking home $63,830.
As mentioned earlier, the reason for the variation in salaries is influenced by factors such as:
- Years of experience: Teachers’ salaries increase with more years of experience, making teachers with more years in the classroom earn higher than those in the earlier years of their careers.
- Level of education: Teachers with a master’s degree or extra certifications such as the National Board certifications earn higher due to their increased expertise and advanced knowledge.
- School district funding: Some school districts receive more funding, depending on the local property tax, and channel more funds to pay teachers better salaries.
- Location: School districts in urban areas tend to pay higher salaries to educators to caution them from the higher cost of living. For instance, the highest-paying school districts in Washington are in the urban areas such as Seattle School District, Bellevue, and Tumwater.
Wages in USD
A chart showing elementary teacher earnings in Washington State based on data from the BLS.
How to Become an Elementary Teacher in Washington
To become an elementary school teacher in Washington State, you must be well-prepared to positively impact students’ lives by following these steps:
- Earn a bachelor’s degree: Obtain a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. You can major in education or in a subject area you intend to teach such as English, math, science, or music.
- Complete a teacher preparation program: Enroll in a state-approved teacher preparation program. The program involves completing coursework in teaching methods, classroom management, child development, and instructional strategies. It also includes supervised student teaching or practicum.
- Pass certification exams: After completing your bachelor’s degree and teacher preparation program, you must obtain teacher certification through the Washington Professional Educator Standards Board (PESB). You must pass the certification exams (including the WEST-B for basic skills and the WEST-E/NES for subject knowledge.
- Apply for Certification: Apply for your teaching certificate through the PESB. You must pass a background check, and submit your transcript as well as pay an application fee.
Once certified, you can search for elementary teaching positions in Washington State. Urban areas like Seattle, Tacoma, Spokane, Bellevue, and Vancouver offer opportunities within their school districts. You can also look for opportunities on professional websites like LinkedIn or Indeed.
Consider joining professional organizations such as the Washington Education Association (WEA) or local teacher associations. These organizations provide resources, advocacy, networking opportunities, and support throughout your teaching career.
Alternative Teaching Certification for Elementary Teachers in Washington State
In Washington State, aspiring educators with a bachelor’s degree who want to become certified teachers can be licensed through alternative certification. These can be career changers, subject matter experts, and experienced professionals.
Alternative certification provides a pathway for those who have not completed a traditional teacher preparation program.
Here is the process of becoming an educator through alternative certification in Washington:
- Find a PESB-approved alternative route program that matches your background and career goals.
- Submit an application to the chosen program.
- Enroll in and complete the required coursework and field experiences, which may include student teaching or an internship.
- Apply for the Residency Teacher Certificate through the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI).
- Pass all required assessments just as in the traditional pathway.
If you’re already certified as a teacher in another state with three years experience, you can apply to become a certified teacher in Washington State using their reciprocity program.
What Is the Highest and Lowest Paying Elementary Jobs in Washington?
Certified elementary teachers in Washington can apply in various educational settings besides working in public schools. For example:
- Private schools: Privately owned or run by religious organizations. They have smaller class sizes and unique educational curriculums.
- Charter schools: Publicly funded but independently run schools that often have more flexibility in their curricula and teaching methods compared to traditional public schools.
- Online: Virtual schools where teachers provide instruction through online platforms, allowing for flexible and remote teaching opportunities.
- Early childhood education centers are programs where certified teachers can work with younger children to prepare them for elementary school.
- Special education centers: Institutions dedicated to serving students with special needs, offering individualized education plans and specialized support.
A representation of the highest and lowest-paying jobs for elementary teachers in Washington.
Become an Elementary Teacher
Elementary school teachers in Washington enjoy competitive salaries higher than the national average, which stands at $63,680. Besides a good salary, they receive comprehensive health benefits, retirement plans, and many opportunities for professional development.
Education is a stable field with a consistent demand for qualified teachers, offering job security and long-term career prospects. Continuous learning opportunities also allow teachers to grow professionally and stay updated with the latest educational trends.
If you want to become a teacher, Teachers of Tomorrow provides alternative certification programs for prospective educators. The programs offer support, from initial training to ongoing mentorship, ensuring you are well-prepared and confident in your roles.
Take advantage of the state programs and achieve your goals today. Explore the opportunities and resources available to start your journey toward becoming an elementary school teacher in Washington.
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