This document summarizes the skills, qualifications, duties, and career prospects for an elementary school teacher. To prepare for the role, one should volunteer in elementary schools, graduate high school, and get an Illinois teaching certificate. Elementary teachers in Illinois earn between $26,070 to $47,405 annually depending on experience and district. Advancement involves obtaining a master's degree and continuing education to take on leadership roles. The job involves working indoors with students and staff while balancing sitting, standing, and a nine-month schedule with summers off. About 2,250 teaching positions open each year in Illinois.