Illinois · Career guide
How to become a Elementary Teacher in Illinois
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 598 elementary teaching jobs open in Illinois →Certification path in Illinois
- 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.
- Pass the required exams. Illinois typically requires:
- Illinois Licensure Testing System (ILTS) Test of Academic Proficiency (TAP) — Basic skills assessment
- ILTS Content Area Assessment — Subject matter knowledge for your area
- edTPA — Performance assessment during student teaching
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.
- Apply for your initial license through Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE). The packet typically includes official transcripts, exam scores, a background check, and (depending on the state) a recommendation from the teacher-prep program. Visit Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) →
- Job-search in Illinois.Browse current elementary teaching openings across Illinois districts. Apply directly to each district's careers page — no platform fees.
Alternative pathways in Illinois
If you didn't follow the traditional university-route, Illinois offers these alternate paths that may apply to your situation:
- Illinois Alternative Educator Licensure — for career changers employed by a district
- Teach For America (active in Chicago)
- Chicago Teaching Fellows
- Career and Technical Education licenses
Illinois salary context
Average teacher salary in Illinois: $67,882/year (rank #9 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 Illinois salary guide for the breakdown.
Set up your first classroom for less
From storage and seating to hands-on math manipulatives, Discount School Supply outfits elementary classrooms on a teacher budget. Get $10 off $50 with code SAVE10NOW.