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What type of degree will I need to be a kindergarten teacher?

I am a 12th grader in New York and I was wondering what degree I'll need and how long I'll be in college for to obtain the degree(s)

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Marie’s Answer

The most direct route is a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. In addition to a bachelor's degree, prospective teachers need to earn a teaching certificate from the state where they wish to work.. The student should major in elementary education (k-6) or early childhood education (p-3) to qualify for kindergarten teaching. Early childhood and special education are in high demand. Although these are the most in-demand teaching subjects, the shortage of teachers affects every part of the profession, from prekindergarten to grade 12. Additionally, teachers are leaving the profession – either transferring to another sector or exiting the labor force entirely.

to excel as a teacher, you’ll generally need

great communication skills
excellent organizational skills
a desire to bring out the best in people
a willingness to take on responsibility
passion, resilience, and energy
a willingness to adapt to new challenges and environments
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Fred’s Answer

The answer will vary deepening on where you live. But in the USA, generally you need at minimum a bachelor's degree. This usually takes four years, but can vary depending on how much AP credit you may have, how many credit hours you take per semester, and if you take summer school.

You also need to get a teaching certificate, but that can be rolled in with your BA. You'd probably major in education, specifically early childhood education. Also, you would get certified in whatever state where you go to school. Some state offer reciprocity, but not all. And for those that do, it may be on a temporary or contingent basis.

Most school districts I've looked at have a pay scale that depends on your education. So with just a BA, you earn $X. If you have a BA + 15 college hours, you earn $Y, and so on. So (usually) each year, you get a pay raise bases on experience, but if you also get more education, your salary goes up even more. The idea is that even once you enter the field. you should work to improve yourself. This is true in most industries - more education -> more money.

Look at your local school districts website. Teacher salaries are a matter of public record. They should be posted, showing you exactly what current salaries are based on experience and education.
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