So you want to be an elementary school teacher? It's a demanding career, requiring patience and social skills, as you have to be able to argue in a room full of rambunctious children. Once you overcome the difficulties, your career is full of immeasurable rewards. Being an elementary school teacher isn't just about walking into a classroom and teaching kids how to add numbers, where something is located on a map, or how to write. This career is much deeper than that, you will build a relationship with each and every student and ultimately build the foundation of students' future education. Elementary school teachers guide their students through a crucial period in their lives. This career is a good choice for people who want to make a difference because you will have a significant impact in the lives of more children and see them grow, not only in school, but also socially. To become an elementary school teacher, you must first find a college that offers the degree: Elementary Education. Fortunately, East Carolina has an excellent university of education. “East Carolina University's elementary education program is nationally recognized for innovation and effectiveness in preparing experienced, knowledgeable, and professional teachers” (“Elementary Education”). Elementary teachers are more than just babysitters. They teach children aged six to twelve many different subjects. Some of the subjects taught by a teacher include, but are not limited to: art, science, social studies, math, reading, music, and even gym. As an elementary school teacher you have to have the whole package. Elaine Briffin, 1995 National Teacher of the Year, says, "Nothing could be more adventurous than helping students learn to teach themselves" ("The Teaching Career...middle of the paper...that. Help be good at both listening and talking not only to your students but also to parents and other staff members. Patience, creativity, and organization will also help you become that beloved teacher that students remember fondly for the rest of their lives. Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. “Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers.” Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition, March 29, 2012. Web.12 November 2013. “Elementary Education.” ." ThinkQuest. Oracle Foundation, nd Web. November 13, 2013. "Job Outlook for Elementary School Teachers." All Things Political. Proquantum Corporation, ndWeb. November 13, 2013. "Teaching in Elementary Schools - Teaching in Elementary Schools - Education The College Board. November 13th. 2013.