Preschool teachers are daily witnesses to the magical period of childhood. The students have big hearts, are excited about discovery, and are full of wonder. It’s also a time of rapid development requiring social, cognitive, and physical guidance. North Carolina is always looking for more qualified professionals to work in this valuable vocation.
The average preschool teacher salary in North Carolina as of May 2023 was $34,460. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on the city and many other important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years you have spent in your profession.
Teachers of Tomorrow will review North Carolina’s preschool teacher salaries in this guide. We’ll also explore the state’s pathways to becoming a preschool teacher, including alternative teacher certification options.
What Is a Preschool Teacher?
Preschool teachers work with the youngest students, ages 3 to 5. The highest demand is for preschool educators is in PreK, where students are at least 4 years old. Due to the students being so young, preschool teachers must create a nurturing environment and teach through play, fun activities, and songs.
The North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education (NC DCDEE) oversees the state’s NC PreK Program. In 2022-2023, around 21% of the state’s 4-year-olds were enrolled in a public PreK program. Preschool teachers working in the NC PreK Program are tasked to prepare students in 5 critical developmental domains:
- Approaches to learning and play.
- Physical and health development.
- Communication and language development.
- Social and emotional development.
- Cognitive development.
Successful preschool teachers adore interacting with this unique age group, which requires a great deal of attention. Other traits found in quality preschool educators include:
- Patience: Preschool students are full of energy, have short attention spans, and are still developing basic skills such as verbal, listening, cooperation, and taking turns. Thus, it takes clear communication and empathy to guide them through instructions and good behavior choices.
- Passion: Nobody goes into teaching for wealth. However, preschool teachers are paid the least compared to K-12 educators. Working with this vulnerable, curious, and busy age group requires a calling.
- Adaptability: Young children take the best-made plans and turn them sideways. An excellent preschool teacher modifies lessons and activities in the moment while keeping calm.
Preschool teachers have many responsibilities, including the following:
- Help children with their development in critical areas, such as fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, reasoning, and cooperation.
- Create a daily schedule that promotes learning through play, crafts, songs, and other engaging activities.
- Provide a warm and welcoming classroom where children feel safe and happy.
How Much Do Preschool Teachers Make in North Carolina?
The average annual salaries for preschool teachers in North Carolina as of May 2023, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics:
- Highest salary – $45,010
- Average salary – $34,120
- Lowest salary – $24,120
Preschool teaching salaries vary in North Carolina depending on the district, type of school, and the teacher’s years of experience, education level, and special skills.
How To Become a Preschool Teacher in North Carolina
The process of becoming a preschool teacher varies across the United States. North Carolina’s pathways are similar to those for candidates wanting to teach K-12.
North Carolina’s traditional pathway to becoming a licensed lead preschool teacher involves the following steps:
- Obtain a bachelor’s degree. 98% of North Carolina’s lead preschool teachers have a bachelor’s degree, even if they work in the private sector. Candidates should select a degree in early childhood or a similar area of study, such as child and family development.
- Complete a teacher preparation program: Most candidates on the traditional pathway use the program provided by their college or university. For those needing one that offers Birth-Kindergarten training, see the state’s Approved Educator Preparation Programs list.
- Pass all relevant exams: Praxis II: Earth Childhood Content Knowledge Exam is a common requirement for preschool teachers.
- Submit license application: Use the NCDPI Online Licensure System.
- Apply for Preschool teaching positions: To help you start your job hunt, check out the NCDPI Work for NC Schools page.
- Obtain the correct background check: As of November 2024, North Carolina does not require all teachers to have a background check. However, background checks are required for anyone working in a licensed childcare facility. Also, some schools require background checks, regardless of state law. Candidates must find out the requirements for their hiring school.
Alternative Route to Certification for Preschool Teachers
North Carolina has alternative ways for individuals to obtain an NC Residency Birth-Kindergarten license. Most require a BA or BS, but there are options for those with an associate’s degree. Some require enrolling in an educator preparation program, such as the one provided by Teachers of Tomorrow.
The steps to becoming licensed through the alternative pathway depend on a candidate’s education, their degree major, GPA, and if they have any experience working in an NC school. Candidates interested should consult the NC PreK Lead Teacher Employment Eligibility Determination Chart.
What is the Highest and Lowest Paying Preschool Teaching Job?
North Carolina preschool teachers work in the following educational settings:
- Special education: These roles require extra training and education. However, there is a nationwide shortage of teachers working in special education, especially in early childhood. Consequently, the pay is greater than those with a standard preschool teacher’s qualification.
- Private schools: North Carolina’s private preschools often offer working parents other perks, such as daycare. There is also more variety of learning approaches, such as Montessori or Waldorf. Thus, even families planning to send their children to public school may use a private preschool.
- Public schools: North Carolina offers preschool through the NC PreK program, but the funding is less than what they give per student for kindergarten. The majority of students who attend are from low-income households.
- Charter schools: Charter schools often face funding challenges for PreK similar to those experienced by public schools, which reduces preschool teacher salaries.
- Online teaching: Online learning has remained popular since the pandemic, but there isn’t a high demand for PreK. While these positions are rarer and don’t pay as high, they often come with flexible hours.
At Teachers of Tomorrow, we look forward to supporting you in becoming a preschool teacher in North Carolina. Contact us now and begin your journey towards a fulfilling and life-changing vocation.
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