Elementary or Secondary?

Question

I can't choose which major I should go into.. elementary or secondary. Can anyone tell me the pros and cons to each, the job outlook of both within the next 3-4 years, and what rewarding experiences do you gain from both? Thank you!

Answer 1

Unless you plan to specialize in math or science, avoid secondary education. Your best job security is in special education.

I believe the rewards of teaching elementary and middle school are much greater.

Answer 2

I think it honestly depends on your personality and your interests.  Do you relate to younger children better than high school students?  Is there something that you are really great at (i.e. Math, English, etc.), or do you have a wide range of knowledge?  There are many huge differences between the two levels, but also a lot of similarities.  I think teaching at any level will be extremely rewarding if you enjoy it and are passionate about it.    

ELEMENTARY:

- usually teach all the subjects, but at a more basic level

- be ready to discipline and have good classroom management established at the very beginning of school

- usually have one class of students for the entire year, so you have the opportunity to really form bonds with your students

- very rewarding to see the progress your students have made throughout the year

- takes a lot of patience and understanding to deal with a wide range of issues you might face with your students...you are responsible for picking up on problems and giving your students accommodations they might need

- much more parent involvement

HIGH SCHOOL:

- usually you need to be more of an "expert" at one or two subjects and you are teaching at a more advanced level

- students are usually more independent at this level, so you may not have to deal with as much disciplining, although when you do remember you are dealing with bigger students with more life experiences (could be a positive or negative)

- may have students only one semester, so not as easy to form bonds with most students

- probably not as much parent involvement

Best of luck in your future!  :)

Answer 3

I think elementary would be a lot more work because you have to teach all subjects where as in secondary you can focus on one thing you know a lot about. Both jobs are very rewarding but I just think in terms of planning and grading secondary takes a little less work. In terms of discipline, its hard to stay. Middle school is probably the hardest to discipline but there would be more job openings than at the high school level and you would still only plan for one or two subjects. Elementary school probably does have the most job openings. But if you move to LA like I did or a big city, its not too hard to find a job even in a high school. I would think about what you enjoy more- what age kids you like to talk to- and also whether or not you have a specialty you'd like to teach at the secondary level. You will probably find your niche either way so there's no bad decision here!