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Elementary School Teachers

Earnings

The mean annual salary for elementary school teachers (not including those who specialized in special education) was $63,680 in May 2023, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. The lowest 10 percent earned $46,960 or less; the highest 10 percent earned $104,440 or more. Elementary school special education teachers earned salaries that ranged from $47,710 to $103,430 or more. Private school teachers generally earn less than public school teachers.

Teachers often supplement their earnings through teaching summer classes, coaching sports, sponsoring a club, or other extracurricular work. Many teachers belong to unions such as the American Federation of Teachers or the National Education Association. These unions bargain with schools over contract conditions such as wages, hours, and benefits. Depending on the state, teachers usually receive a retirement plan, sick leave, and health and life insurance. Some systems grant teachers sabbatical leave.