Georgia · Career guide

How to become a Elementary Teacher in Georgia

Elementary teachers (typically K-5 or K-6 depending on the state) deliver self-contained instruction across all core subjects. Hiring competition varies — popular metro districts can have dozens of applicants per opening, while rural and high-poverty districts often run staffing fairs to recruit. Bilingual / dual-language certification can dramatically expand opportunity.

See 206 elementary teaching jobs open in Georgia →

Certification path in Georgia

  1. Earn a bachelor's degree. Most candidates complete a teacher-preparation program either as part of their undergraduate studies or as a post-baccalaureate add-on.
  2. Pass the required exams. Georgia typically requires:
    • GACE Basic Skills Assessment — Reading, writing, and mathematics
    • GACE Content Assessments — Content knowledge in your teaching field

    Most states issue a generic elementary license (K-6 or K-8). Adding a content endorsement (e.g. middle-grades math) expands grade-level placement options.

  3. Apply for your initial license through Georgia Professional Standards Commission (PSC). The packet typically includes official transcripts, exam scores, a background check, and (depending on the state) a recommendation from the teacher-prep program. Visit Georgia Professional Standards Commission (PSC) →
  4. Job-search in Georgia.Browse current elementary teaching openings across Georgia districts. Apply directly to each district's careers page — no platform fees.

Alternative pathways in Georgia

If you didn't follow the traditional university-route, Georgia offers these alternate paths that may apply to your situation:

  • Alternative Teacher Preparation Programs (through approved providers)
  • Teach For America (active in Atlanta and rural Georgia)
  • Career and Technical Education (CTAE) certificates

Georgia salary context

Average teacher salary in Georgia: $59,131/year (rank #29 nationally). Entry-level pay with a bachelor's typically starts at $38,000/year.

Role-specific premiums vary by district — special education, STEM, and bilingual roles frequently command signing bonuses or stipends. See the full Georgia salary guide for the breakdown.

Full Georgia certification guideAll license tiers, alt routes, and reciprocity from other states.Georgia salary guidePay schedule, COL context, top-paying districts.Georgia teacher shortageWhich subjects are in shortage status — and the loan-forgiveness eligibility.