Elementary school teaching is your passion. You’ve spent years pouring your heart and soul into arts, crafts, and field trips.
But with decreasing funding and increasing class size, elementary teachers are struggling to meet the individual needs of their students.
In today’s climate, elementary teachers need to be able to create fun and engaging lessons for each of their students’ unique learning styles, all while managing a busy classroom with little help from outside resources!
Your elementary teacher resume must show school administrators that you are a pro at everything from differentiated learning to student behavior management.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- The right elementary teacher resume skills to impress school administrators
- What elementary teacher resume templates to use that will stand out from other candidates
- How to increase your chances of securing an interview by highlighting quantifiable achievements
- How to write an elementary teacher resume objective that shows principals how you will impact success at their school
- The best way to present your teaching certifications and education so that hiring managers know that you’re qualified for the job
Check these additional resumes for teaching positions:
Elementary Teacher resume examples
By Experience
Entry-Level Elementary Teacher
- Integration of education-specific keywords – A remarkable entry-level elementary teacher resume effectively weaves in terminology unique to the educational field, such as differentiated instruction, formative assessment, individualized learning plans, and classroom management strategies. This mindful use of industry language demonstrates both an understanding of the profession’s demands and an alignment with the latest pedagogical trends, which can quickly capture a principal's attention.
- Impact of the concluding section and encouragement to connect – The closing lines on a standout resume don’t just summarize past experiences; they proactively convey enthusiasm for shaping young learners and invite further discussion. A brief but persuasive statement—expressing eagerness to contribute to the school’s mission or to join a dedicated teaching team—paired with a confident call to action, can leave a lasting impression and prompt an interview invitation.
- Immediacy of fit and visual organization – From the onset, a compelling resume for this role presents a clear profile highlighting relevant student teaching, involvement with educational technology, or volunteer experiences in schools. Crisp formatting, succinct bullet points, and a logical flow make it easy for hiring committees to recognize the candidate’s preparedness for the classroom environment, signaling suitability for an entry-level teaching position at a glance.
Senior Elementary Teacher
- Crafting an impactful finale – A memorable senior elementary teacher resume concludes with a decisive and confident closing statement, directly conveying the applicant's eagerness to contribute to a learning environment. This section summarizes key talents and invites further discussion, creating a compelling call to action that motivates the school to initiate contact.
- Showcasing relevant milestones – Achievements listed clearly demonstrate direct experience with curriculum design, classroom management, and student engagement that align precisely with senior teaching expectations. Highlighted accomplishments such as leading professional development workshops or improving student assessment scores underscore the candidate’s capability to exceed typical job demands.
- Evoking a genuine connection – The resume’s language resonates emotionally by reflecting a dedication to fostering growth and a love of learning in young students. By integrating stories of transformative classroom moments or meaningful collaboration with colleagues, the document forges an immediate rapport with readers, showing passion well beyond basic qualifications.
Substitute Elementary Teacher
- Displaying a tone that blends expertise with approachability – A standout substitute elementary teacher resume adopts a tone combining assured professionalism with a clear enthusiasm for education. This mix signals to hiring schools that the candidate is not only capable and reliable but also genuinely invested in student growth, fostering trust and warmth essential for young learners.
- Projecting a unified professional identity across platforms – Consistency between a resume and other professional profiles, such as LinkedIn, reinforces a distinctive personal brand. Resumes that mirror key themes, skill sets, and achievements presented elsewhere present a cohesive narrative, helping school administrators quickly recognize the candidate’s core values and teaching philosophy.
- Connecting transferable skills to classroom success – The most compelling resumes effectively bridge previous experiences with the demands of substitute teaching. By highlighting roles that required adaptability, classroom management, or creative communication, applicants show how their background primes them to thrive in the fast-changing environment of elementary education.
Lead Elementary Teacher
- Blending confidence with a welcoming attitude – A Lead Elementary Teacher’s resume shines when it strikes a harmonious balance between professional expertise and warm enthusiasm, clearly expressing both mastery of educational best practices and a genuine passion for nurturing young minds.
- Cultivating an immediate connection – Exemplary resumes for this role captivate readers by weaving authentic stories of student impact and classroom achievement, allowing the reader to easily imagine how the candidate’s empathetic approach makes a difference in school communities.
- Establishing a unified and memorable identity – Truly outstanding submissions reflect thoughtfully crafted personal branding, with consistent messaging, visual styling, and themes between the resume and LinkedIn profile, ensuring the candidate is perceived as both reliable and distinct in every professional channel.
By Role
Kindergarten Teacher
- Clean arrangement ensures effortless navigation – Thoughtful use of white space, distinct section breaks, and legible font choices all work together to create a resume that is easy on the eyes and straightforward to follow. Subtle visual cues guide the reader, enabling a hiring manager to quickly pinpoint teaching credentials, work history, and essential skills without unnecessary clutter or distraction.
- Logical layout highlights key kindergarten competencies – A compelling resume for a kindergarten teacher neatly organizes content into clear subsections such as Professional Summary, Education, Certifications, and Core Teaching Skills. Bullet points, action verbs, and concise descriptions within these sections draw direct attention to relevant experience with young learners, classroom management, and parent communication, displaying information in a way that is both attractive and immediately informative.
- Warmth and professionalism radiate an ideal fit – From the initial glance, a stand-out kindergarten teacher resume conveys both approachability and capability, reflecting qualities expected of an educator for young children. The overall package suggests the candidate is both nurturing and organized, blending a passion for early childhood development with the reliability and leadership necessary for an enriching learning environment.
Pre-K Teacher
- A resume that demonstrates immediate relevance – The initial impression matters, and a strong Pre-K Teacher resume immediately communicates a commitment to early childhood education through targeted skills, pertinent certifications, and carefully selected, child-focused job experiences. Such a CV assures recruiters that the candidate understands classroom demands and is well-prepared for the distinct needs of preschoolers.
- Showcasing a breadth of teaching and care experiences – Adaptability shines through when a candidate shares examples of working with diverse classroom setups, integrating various learning approaches, and effectively supporting children with different backgrounds and abilities. Evidence of flexibility—like adapting lesson plans midstream or collaborating with multidisciplinary teams—displays the versatility vital for thriving in dynamic Pre-K environments.
- Infusing warmth and personality into the narrative – A resume that communicates passion through heartfelt descriptions of nurturing creativity, fostering safe spaces, or celebrating children’s milestones draws the reader in emotionally. When an applicant shares genuine anecdotes or results, it helps hiring managers genuinely envision the applicant engaging joyfully and empathetically with young learners.
Assistant Elementary Teacher
- An engaging and targeted introduction impresses immediately – A resume that opens with a dynamic statement highlighting passion for education and familiarity with elementary teaching environments captures a hiring manager’s attention from the outset, effectively positioning the applicant as driven and relevant to the position.
- Evidence of flexibility in classroom roles – Showcasing experiences such as supporting diverse learning needs, adapting lesson plans for different age groups, or collaborating with various staff illustrates the candidate’s ability to handle shifting responsibilities—crucial for the ever-changing environment of elementary schools.
- Strong compatibility with the assistant teaching role is readily apparent – The initial impression created by a clear, concise format and well-chosen keywords suggests the applicant fully understands the expectations of an assistant elementary teacher, making it easy for reviewers to picture them thriving in the position.
Elementary Substitute Teacher
- Efficient organization of key details – A standout Elementary Substitute Teacher resume swiftly highlights essential teaching qualifications, certifications, and classroom experience in a clear, succinct format. Bullet points are used sparingly but powerfully, allowing hiring managers to instantly recognize a candidate’s preparedness without sifting through unnecessary information.
- Immediate evidence of classroom readiness – The best resumes quickly communicate the applicant’s adaptability to diverse learning environments and their confidence managing young students. This immediate presentation of relevant skills and past achievements assures principals that the candidate can step seamlessly into any elementary classroom and maintain continuity in learning.
- Inviting yet composed written approach – A well-balanced tone conveys both professionalism and genuine excitement for teaching. By blending confident language with warm, student-centered phrasing, the resume demonstrates that the applicant not only meets the professional standards required but also sincerely enjoys fostering growth in children.
Elementary Art Teacher
- Building a memorable personal narrative – A standout Elementary Art Teacher resume crafts a vibrant, authentic story that aligns seamlessly with the applicant's LinkedIn profile, highlighting unique teaching philosophies, core values, and artistic passions. This intentional cohesion across platforms demonstrates intentional brand consistency and reinforces professionalism to potential employers.
- Tailoring content to the school’s mission – A compelling resume also reveals a careful understanding of the institution’s educational vision, whether it emphasizes creativity, inclusion, or community engagement. By referencing specific programs or core values from the school, candidates establish themselves as informed and genuinely invested in contributing to the school’s unique culture.
- Optimizing layout to encourage reading – Visually, an exceptional resume applies balanced spacing, clear section breaks, and concise bullet points so that information flows naturally and remains easy to scan. This thoughtful organization reduces visual clutter, making the teacher’s qualifications and achievements immediately accessible to school administrators or hiring panels.
Elementary Music Teacher
- Strategic incorporation of music education jargon – A top-notch resume leverages specialized vocabulary, such as “Kodály methodology,” “differentiated instruction,” and “classroom management,” to immediately signal expertise and familiarity with the core pedagogical practices of elementary music teaching.
- Translating past roles into relevant teaching strengths – Showcasing how previous positions—whether in education, performance, or youth engagement—contribute directly to essential responsibilities like curriculum design, ensemble direction, and fostering student creativity ensures a seamless narrative between experience and the demands of the classroom.
- Clear, succinct formatting for quick impact – Presenting credentials, certifications, and achievements with concise bullet points and streamlined language enables hiring committees to quickly discern qualifications and accomplishments, enhancing the overall readability and impact of the document.
Bilingual Elementary Teacher
- Establishing a unified professional identity – A standout resume aligns language, tone, and visuals with the candidate’s LinkedIn presence, ensuring the impression of a polished, reliable bilingual educator dedicated to student success. Such consistency signals attention to detail and a strong sense of self-awareness in professional branding.
- Streamlining content for swift impact – The most effective resumes use direct, concise language and bullet points to convey responsibilities and qualifications. This clear structure enables principals and recruiters to grasp essential skills—such as dual-language instruction or classroom management—without sifting through excessive detail.
- Providing quantifiable evidence of teaching results – Exceptional resumes showcase impactful achievements, like increasing reading proficiency among Spanish-speaking students by a specific percentage or spearheading a successful multicultural curriculum. These measurable outcomes illustrate the teacher’s tangible contributions to their school community and student learning.
Elementary School Music Teacher
- Showcasing flexibility in diverse teaching settings – A resume that highlights the ability to adapt between classroom instruction, small group guidance, and virtual learning environments immediately grabs attention. Including specific examples such as modifying lesson plans for students with varying skill levels or integrating technology to support remote music activities demonstrates a level of resourcefulness crucial for modern elementary music education.
- Striking the right note between warmth and formality – A standout application exudes both an approachable passion for fostering students’ love of music and a sense of professional commitment. By thoughtfully balancing descriptive language that conveys enthusiasm with clear, concise accounts of professional responsibilities, the candidate signals their readiness to inspire young learners while maintaining classroom structure and respect.
- Connecting previous experience to the school music educator’s mission – When a resume draws clear parallels between earlier roles—such as community ensemble leadership, music camp instruction, or arts outreach—and the goals of an elementary music teacher, it makes a compelling case for the applicant’s fit. Outlining achievements like organizing performances or collaborating on cross-disciplinary projects underscores both relevant skills and a dedication to nurturing creative expression within school communities.
Elementary School Math Teacher
- Exceptional teaching strategies uniquely highlight expertise – A standout resume showcases not only mastery of core math concepts but also innovative approaches to engaging young learners. By emphasizing interactive lesson plans, use of manipulatives, and integration of technology, the candidate demonstrates a forward-thinking edge that distinguishes them from traditional instructors.
- The introduction hooks with immediate relevance and energy – An outstanding opening sentence grabs attention by clearly stating years of hands-on elementary teaching experience and referencing a tangible impact, such as boosting student numeracy or fostering a love for math. This direct approach quickly assures principals and hiring teams that the applicant can deliver results in the classroom.
- Diverse experiences reveal flexibility in teaching environments – The resume goes beyond standard duties by illustrating adaptability through examples like collaborating across grade levels, supporting inclusive education for students with varied needs, and adapting curriculum to suit different learning profiles. Such versatility ensures the candidate can thrive in any school setting.
Elementary School Technology Teacher
- Building a unified professional identity across platforms – A standout Elementary School Technology Teacher resume demonstrates cohesion by mirroring the tone, accomplishments, and core values expressed on the candidate’s LinkedIn profile. This consistency helps to reinforce a memorable professional image, ensuring that principals or hiring staff perceive the candidate as intentional and reliable in their educational mission and technology expertise.
- Integrating authentic educational technology vocabulary – The use of well-chosen technical phrases such as “digital citizenship instruction,” “1:1 device integration,” “STEM curriculum design,” and “Google Classroom facilitation” shows not just familiarity but also proficiency in industry language. Incorporating these targeted terms signals to school administrators that the applicant is fluent in contemporary educational tools and methodologies, which is essential for engaging today’s students.
- Showcasing measurable contributions in digital education – Highlighting specific successes, like increasing student coding proficiency by a certain percentage or leading schoolwide adoption of an online safety curriculum, directly supports the candidate’s fit for the role. Tailoring these accomplishments to reflect both teaching impact and innovation makes the resume more attractive to decision-makers searching for educators who positively influence student tech skills and overall digital literacy.
Elementary School Language Teacher
- Demonstrated experience syncing with classroom teaching needs – Recruiters find it impressive when an applicant highlights previous roles that involved direct instruction to young learners and showcases skills in crafting lesson plans, implementing engaging activities, and tracking student language development. This clear alignment assures the school that the candidate can seamlessly adapt to existing curricula and contribute meaningfully from day one.
- Well-articulated personal drive for language education – A resume that communicates genuine enthusiasm for fostering language skills in children stands out. When candidates explain their passion for shaping early learners’ communication abilities and detail the rewarding aspects they find in teaching at the elementary level, it signals to hiring managers an authentic commitment to the mission of the role.
- Immediate impression of readiness and classroom fit – The initial overview of a resume that prominently lists certifications, relevant training in language instruction, and evidence of adaptability in diverse classroom settings immediately conveys suitability. This direct presentation of key qualifications and soft skills gives the impression the candidate is well-prepared to navigate the unique challenges of elementary education.
Elementary School English Teacher
- A powerful introduction immediately highlighting passion and suitability – An exceptional resume for an elementary school English teacher launches with a concise and compelling opening statement, swiftly presenting a blend of enthusiasm for education, relevant experience, and alignment with the school's mission, all within the first few lines. This immediate clarity draws in the reader and sets the tone for a strong application.
- Motivation that reveals a genuine purpose for teaching young learners – What truly distinguishes an applicant is an explanation of their personal drive, showing heartfelt commitment to guiding elementary students in their language development. By articulating authentic reasons for seeking the role, such as fostering creativity and literacy or making a positive impact at an early age, the candidate demonstrates a clear sense of purpose.
- Impeccable organization and formatting ensure instant readability – A visually appealing resume uses generous spacing, well-structured headings, and short, readable paragraphs to make key information easy to find. This professional presentation not only reflects attention to detail but also signals strong communication—qualities essential in an English teaching role.
Elementary School Science Teacher
- Striking harmony between warmth and expertise – An exceptional Elementary School Science Teacher resume strikes a perfect blend between professional qualifications and genuine enthusiasm for fostering curiosity in young minds. It balances authoritative language about educational credentials and teaching methods with a lively, inviting tone that shows passion for engaging children in the wonders of science.
- Creating a meaningful impression through storytelling – The most memorable resumes captivate readers by illustrating their journey with heartfelt anecdotes or vivid examples that demonstrate impact—such as recounting moments where students' eyes lit up during experiments or when a struggling learner found success through creative lessons. This connection turns lists of skills into stories that echo long after the page is closed.
- Bringing something unexpected to the classroom – What really elevates a candidate is evidence of distinctive contributions beyond standard teaching responsibilities. Unique experiences, like founding a school garden project, leading science fairs that involved community partnerships, or integrating technology in imaginative ways, offer specific proof that this teacher brings an innovative edge and deep commitment to student enrichment.
Elementary School Physical Education Teacher
- Demonstrates proficiency in adjusting to varied teaching environments – Showcasing experiences such as seamlessly integrating new fitness technologies, accommodating students with diverse physical abilities, or adapting lesson plans for remote instruction exemplifies an educator's flexibility and readiness to handle emerging challenges in elementary physical education.
- Presents accomplishments with clarity and precision – A resume that utilizes succinct bullet points, quantifies achievements like increased student participation rates, and avoids unnecessary jargon or lengthy descriptions allows hiring teams to instantly grasp the candidate’s impact and skills without wading through excess information.
- Illustrates an understanding of school values and approaches – Mentioning specific curricular initiatives, referencing the district’s holistic approach to student wellness, or aligning one’s personal teaching philosophy with the school’s mission highlights thoughtful research and a strong desire to contribute meaningfully to that particular educational community.
Elementary School Art Teacher
- A resume that blends a confident, friendly voice with professional language – Achieving the right equilibrium between approachable enthusiasm and a polished, businesslike tone is essential for an elementary school art teacher. Highlighting inventive project ideas or past successes in fostering student creativity, while maintaining concise and clear language, shows both passion for the subject and respect for the formal environment of schools.
- Clearly articulated passion for nurturing young artists – The best resumes go beyond listing credentials by specifying why the candidate is committed to teaching at the elementary level. Expressing a genuine desire to inspire imagination, develop foundational art skills, or create inclusive classroom communities helps hiring committees understand what drives your ambition and how you aim to leave a positive, lasting impact on students.
- Thoughtful layout draws attention to key details – An effective visual format uses well-organized sections, generous spacing, and uniform fonts to guide readers swiftly through achievements and qualifications. Bullet points, clearly labeled headers, and concise paragraphs create visual breathing room, making it easier for principals and hiring managers to locate experiences and competencies, ultimately ensuring your strengths are both seen and remembered.
Elementary School Special Education Teacher
- Demonstrating substantial hands-on expertise – A standout resume highlights not just credentials but also practical experience such as implementing individualized education programs, coordinating with multidisciplinary teams, and adapting curriculum for varying abilities. Providing evidence of data-driven results and unique classroom successes underscores depth of professional competence.
- Utilizing sector-specific language effectively – Incorporating terminology like differentiated instruction, IEP development, progress monitoring, behavior intervention plans, and least restrictive environment illustrates both fluency and familiarity with special education frameworks. This industry-specific vocabulary signals a nuanced grasp of educational best practices and legal mandates.
- Ending with a compelling summary and invitation – An outstanding resume concludes with a persuasive overview that not only reiterates dedication to student growth and advocacy, but also explicitly states openness to discuss how the educator’s specialized skills can benefit the school community. A direct call to action encourages further engagement and ensures the document leaves a lasting impression.
Elementary School Reading Specialist
- Initial snapshot highlights targeted expertise – A standout Elementary School Reading Specialist resume immediately communicates alignment with the school's needs through a strong summary and measurable skills, such as differentiated literacy instruction and collaborative intervention strategies, setting a clear tone for the applicant's capacity to nurture young readers.
- Impactful results underscore effectiveness – Showcasing concrete examples—like accelerating struggling readers’ growth by specific grade levels or leading school-wide reading initiatives that raised test scores—offers compelling proof of the candidate’s direct influence on student achievement and program success.
- Conclusion leaves a memorable impression – A well-crafted closing statement reinforces the candidate’s dedication to fostering reading proficiency and their eagerness to support both students and staff, concluding with a proactive invitation to discuss how their expertise can contribute to the school’s literacy goals.
Elementary School Gifted and Talented Teacher
- Clear articulation of personal drive and purpose – A standout resume for an elementary school Gifted and Talented Teacher displays a strong sense of commitment to advancing gifted education, making it clear why the applicant is passionate about nurturing academically advanced students. The candidate goes beyond listing credentials by sharing specific motivations for supporting exceptional learners, such as fostering curiosity, encouraging critical thinking, and providing differentiated instruction tailored to varied learning styles.
- Compelling and targeted resume introduction – An exceptional opening statement immediately positions the applicant as both qualified and enthusiastic, weaving in years of experience, specializations (such as enrichment program development), and proven outcomes with gifted students. This introduction grabs the reader’s attention by illustrating the candidate’s readiness to make an immediate impact, effectively setting the tone for the rest of the resume.
- Demonstrated awareness of school culture and goals – The resume distinguishes itself by explicitly connecting the teacher's expertise with the unique vision, mission, and priorities of the intended school. By highlighting knowledge of the institution’s approach to talent development—whether it’s project-based learning, emphasis on equity in gifted identification, or collaboration with families—the applicant conveys a deep understanding of, and alignment with, the school’s educational values.
Elementary School ESL Teacher
- Blending a genuine passion for teaching with poised communication – A standout Elementary School ESL Teacher resume strikes an ideal equilibrium between vibrant enthusiasm for education and practiced professionalism. When candidates infuse their language with authentic energy while remaining clear and courteous, it showcases their capacity to inspire young learners, engage parents, and collaborate effectively with colleagues without sacrificing credibility or composure.
- Demonstrating tailored alignment with school values and mission – An exceptional resume goes beyond listing general teaching experience by thoughtfully referencing the specific pedagogical philosophies, diversity initiatives, or community programs that set a school apart. By incorporating references to the institution’s unique educational approach and clearly articulating why it resonates personally and professionally, applicants show a sincere dedication to thriving within that particular school setting.
- Showcasing curriculum expertise and classroom innovation – Detail-rich resumes highlight technical fluency in ESL instructional strategies, differentiated learning, and assessment tools relevant to primary grades. Applicants who present concrete examples of lesson planning, literacy scaffolding, and measurable student progress demonstrate that they possess both the foundational knowledge and adaptive creativity critical for fostering English language acquisition in diverse elementary classrooms.
How to format an elementary teacher resume
Your resume format is the first thing recruiters will notice and is your opportunity to make a good first impression. It helps to send a clear message as to who you are as a candidate.
There are several resume layouts, but the best choice for your elementary teacher resume is a reverse chronological layout.
As the name suggests, this layout lists your work history in reverse chronological order.
Elementary teaching typically follows a linear career path that begins with student teaching and leads to teaching your own class.
Reverse chronological is the optimal design to showcase your career growth.
What design elements should I use on my elementary teacher resume?
Creativity is an important skill for elementary teachers. Think back on some of the best classrooms you’ve seen and notice all the bright colors, fun activities, and innovative lessons.
Showing recruiters your creative side begins the moment they lay their eyes on your resume.
For elementary school teachers, it’s a good idea to make use of different colors, sections, and fonts. Show administrators what they can expect from your colorful classroom activities and fun lesson plans!
However, don’t get too carried away. The design should be organized, professional, and pleasant to look at. Remember your resume is for the staff, not the students.
Choose from the selection of colors, fonts, and other design elements in our resume builder to help you create a resume that will be appealing to hiring managers.
How many pages should my elementary teacher resume be?
A common question in resume writing is how many pages should a resume be. For elementary school teachers, one page is sufficient.
Resumes longer than one page are more common in higher-level school administrative roles by candidates with more than a decade of experience in education.
If by chance your target school does want to see a more detailed history or teaching portfolio, that will come later in the hiring process.
Should I use a PDF or doc file format for my elementary teacher resume?
Another common resume question is what is the best format to use - PDF or doc. Unless the job description explicitly requests a particular format, go with PDF.
Using a PDF provides more security and eliminates the risk of any unwanted formatting changes or compatibility issues.
School administrators are dealing with digital files and documents all day long. If they have difficulty opening yours, they won’t waste time on it.
You also want to ensure that your format is clear, concise, and ATS-friendly. Both our double-column and single-column layouts in Enhancv’s resume builder are ATS optimized.
Think about the market’s preferences – a Canadian resume, for instance, could have a different layout.
The top sections on an elementary teacher resume:
- Reverse chronological experience section
- Key strengths and skills for the job
- Education and qualifications that make you the right fit
- Summary that highlights your objective and greatest achievement
- Additional sections that showcase your value in the industry
What recruiters want to see on your resume:
- Classroom Management
- Lesson Planning
- Empathy or Social-Emotional Learning Competencies
- Instructional Strategies
- Behavior Management
- Educational Technology
- Teaching License and Certifications
- Specialty Training Programs like Orton-Gillingham or the Wilson Reading System
Schools today are facing more and more difficulties with proper funding and manageable class size, which puts stress on both teachers and students.
It is important that elementary teachers have good classroom management skills and exercise empathy when addressing student behavior issues. Elementary schools want teachers who are equipped to handle these challenges.
Larger class size means more students with diverse learning needs. Strong lesson planning skills that make learning engaging and accessible for everyone is key.
Educational technology is a rapidly growing arena. As EdTech becomes more and more integrated in classrooms, potential employers expect their teachers to keep up.
Increase your value in the industry and keep your skills relevant by staying on top of educational technology tools and trends.
A state teaching license is non-negotiable for virtually any elementary teacher position. We will get into more detail on this below, but be sure to display your required certifications clearly on your resume.
Don’t miss out on an opportunity by overlooking a crucial qualification!
How to write your elementary teacher resume experience section
Your experience section is key in showcasing why you’re the right candidate for the job. It’s an opportunity to highlight past successes and skills you’ve acquired on the job.
Follow the reverse chronological structure by starting with your most recent elementary teaching position. List each relevant job title, company name, company location, and date range you worked.
Under each job, list 4-6 bullets that highlight specific achievements with measurable results.
A common mistake people make here is listing a basic job description instead of personal achievements.
Recruiters and potential employers already know what an elementary school teacher does. They want to know what unique success you will bring to their school.
Include accomplishments with specific numbers and data. Don’t expect potential employers to take your word for it. Support your claims with evidence.
Experience bullets are also a good opportunity to show competency with job-specific tools and software. Include industry terms, awards, and tools. Mention things like class sizes and your strongest subject areas.
Pro Tip
Try using the PAR (Problem-Action-Result) method to determine quantifiable achievements. Identify a relevant problem, discuss the action you took to address it, and state the measurable result you achieved.
Start each bullet point entry with an action verb for maximum impact. Avoid overused or meaningless buzzwords.
A key piece of advice is always tailor your resume to fit your target job. This goes for every section of your resume, not just your experience section.
Recruiters have a lot of resumes to read and they don’t want to waste time sorting through irrelevant information.
Make sure every section of your resume is clear, concise, and relevant to the job you’re applying for.
How to quantify impact on your resume
Showing measurable results of past achievements can be easier said than done. It might be difficult to identify quantifiable data of previous accomplishments.
Simply writing “good communication with parents” or “high student pass rate” isn’t enough. It leaves things open to interpretation and doesn’t show recruiters why you’re a competitive candidate.
Let’s look at an example of common errors made in the experience section.
08/2018 - 05/2020 
- •Selected and implemented curriculum
- •High student success rate
- •Good communication with parents
What doesn’t work in this example:
- Boring, general statements
- No quantifiable data
- Blanket claims left up to interpretation
Let’s look at an example below that provides quantifiable data to back up those claims.
08/2018 - 05/2020 - •Selected Social-Emotional Learning Certified curriculum and implemented using differentiated instruction
- •Achieved 98% student pass rate 2 years in a row
- •Received Parent Favorite award in 2019 for providing good communication and strong support to parents
What works in this example:
- Shows industry specific skills and knowledge
- Highlights quantifiable success with percentages
- Provides award as evidence to support claims
Let’s look at another example of generic elementary teacher experience sections.
08/2018 - 05/2020 - •Had positive classroom environment
- •Supported students with special learning needs
- •Improved test scores
What doesn’t work in this example:
- Generic terms with no specific examples
- Broad claims without supporting evidence
- Lacks strong action verbs
Let’s take a look at an improvement of the above example.
08/2018 - 05/2020 - •Created positive classroom environment through culturally responsive teaching strategies
- •Trained in Orton-Gillingham method to support students with dyslexia and other special learning needs
- •Improved test scores by an average of 19% in first year teaching
What works in this example:
- Shows knowledge of classroom strategies
- Highlights specialized training
- Provides measurable evidence to support claims.
There is a wide range of accomplishments you can select to highlight success. It is specific to each candidate and what is most relevant to the target job.
Here are a few more examples of quantitative data that can be used to strengthen an elementary school teacher resume:
- Class size
- Test scores
- Grade averages and improvements
- Teaching awards
- Behavioral management
- Attendance and dosage
- Student participation
- Parent satisfaction
- School rankings
- Literacy growth
How to list your hard skills and soft skills on your resume
Skills are an important part of your elementary teacher resume. They show your industry knowledge and ability to do the job.
Soft skills often require more explanation than hard skills. For this reason, it’s best to separate resume skills into two categories.
Let’s start with hard skills. Simply put, hard skills are the ability to perform job-specific tasks. These are usually technical and measurable abilities.
Unlike soft skills, there is less room for interpretation. Depending on their specificity, you often either have them or you don’t. As opposed to other skills which may be measured over a wide proficiency spectrum.
For hard skills, it’s okay to simply list them on your resume without an explanation of each skill. Let’s look at an example of a hard skills section on an elementary teacher resume.
If you have a lot of skills to list, you may want to separate them by category.
What works in these examples:
- Clear categories makes it easy to read
- Shows industry specific skills and knowledge
- Highlights relevant technology and software
Since you’re listing hard skills without context, be weary of including anything you’re not proficient in. If it’s on your resume, companies will assume you’re an expert.
List only the skills that you’re most confident in and are most relevant to your target job and of course, never lie on your resume by including skills you don’t have.
16 of the best hard skills for your elementary teacher resume
- Curriculum Development
- Differentiated Instruction
- Distance Learning
- Google Classroom
- Student-Centered Instruction
- Lesson Planning
- Assessment and Evaluation
- Classroom Management
- ClassDojo
- Remind
- Educational Technology
- Instructional Strategies
- Smartboard
- Kahoot
- Classroom Management Systems
- Learning Environment
Soft skills are not as black and white as hard skills. Therefore, it is best to include examples to show exactly what you mean.
You can do this throughout your resume by including examples in your experience bullets or achievements section.
A good way to highlight your best soft skills on your elementary teacher resume is to create a separate section for strengths.
Let’s take a look at the example below.
Note how the example above provides specific examples to support each soft skill. This makes it easier for potential employers to understand the impact you’ll have in your role.
16 of the best soft skills for your elementary teacher resume
- Time Management
- Critical Thinking
- Problem Solving
- Empathy and Compassion
- Creativity
- Communication
- Collaboration
- Leadership
- Patience
- Conflict Resolution
- Adaptability
- Public Speaking
- Innovation
- Active Listening
- Professional Development
- Organization
As with every section, tailor your skills to fit your target job. Take inventory of your skill set and select those that are most relevant.
When in doubt, seek help from friends and trusted colleagues to come up with a list of your best hard and soft skills.
How to list your certifications and education on your elementary teacher resume
Certifications and education carry significant importance on your elementary teacher resume.
Elementary teaching jobs will usually have minimum requirements like a state teaching license and a bachelor’s degree in education.
Some schools may require additional training in your subject area. Depending on your subject area and career goals, you may even consider obtaining a master’s degree.
Due to their importance in the industry, certifications, and education are qualities you want to highlight on your elementary teaching resume.
Your education section doesn’t require much detail. In fact, minimalism is better.
A basic education section includes:
- The name of the degree
- Issuing institution
- Location
- Years attended
Let’s look at an example of an elementary teacher resume education section.
02/2000 - 11/2004 If you have significant awards, courses, or projects from your education, you may consider including them as well. However, in most cases just the basic info is sufficient.
Your certification section will be similarly basic. Including just the name of the certification and issuing institution is fine.
{ "record": "CertificateSection", "name": "", "items": [ { "record": "CertificateItem", "title": "Florida Educator's Certificate", "issuer": "The Florida Department of Education", "showIssuer": true } ] }
Always follow instructions in the job listing. If the job application requires specific information like GPA or coursework, do as directed.
Be sure to thoroughly research your target job and find out what specific certifications are required for your role.
Here are a few general certifications that may be requirements or can increase the value of your resume.
7 certifications for your elementary teacher resume in 2025
- Teaching license or certificate issued by your state department of education
- Orton-Gillingham Practitioner Certification
- Wilson Reading System Certification
- Center for Effective Reading Instruction Certification
- American Sign Language Teachers Association Certification
- Reading or other subject area specialist certificate
- Social-emotional learning specialist certificate
Elementary teaching jobs will usually require some combination of background checks and child safety clearances that vary by state.
Most schools will run their own background checks during the hiring process, however many clearances remain valid for 1-5 years and can be presented to potential employers.
Show your target school that you’re committed to your career by including active clearances on your resume.
How to write your elementary teacher resume summary or objective
Your resume summary, or objective, is your personal introduction to recruiters and potential employers.
It shows your value in the industry and highlights the number one thing you want readers to know about you as a candidate.
It can be difficult to boil down all your experience and accomplishments in 3-5 sentences. A good formula to follow is to introduce your title, highlight your best achievement, and share a common goal.
Let’s look at an example of what not to do in your resume summary or objective.
What doesn’t work in this example:
- Broad statements with no real impact
- No mention of specific achievements
- Does not include goals
Let’s look at a revised version of the above example.
What works in this example:
- Includes specific numbers and percentages
- Supports claims with evidence
- Provides mutual goal of candidate and employer
Before you write your resume summary, do some research on your target employer. Find out what goals they have and how you can help achieve them.
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Additional sections for an elementary teacher resume
Depending on your role, subject area, and experience, you may want to include additional sections on your elementary teacher resume.
If you have unique experiences that make you a great candidate for the job, they can have a big impact on your resume.
Languages, volunteer work, and even hobbies can make great additions to your resume. Just make sure they’re relevant to your target job.
If you worked on relevant projects while student teaching or in pursuit of your degree, consider adding them to your resume.
Attaching a cover letter to your elementary teacher resume
Cover letters are not always required, but they can be a great tool to enhance your job application.
Cover letters provide an opportunity to dive deeper into specific experiences or achievements that you can’t fit on your resume.
They allow for a bit of storytelling and are a great way to show potential employers a side of your personality. When selecting a candidate, employers also want to know how they will fit into the company culture.
Like your resume, your elementary teacher cover letter should be clear, concise, and tailored to your target job. It should be organized, professional, and no longer than a page.
Use an attention-grabbing opening, a body that highlights your best qualities, and a closing with a call to action to show employers that you’re the right candidate for the job.
If you need more guidance on cover letter writing, browse our huge collection of cover letter examples by industry and role.
Key takeaways for writing a great elementary teacher resume
Now that you’ve gone through our guide, you’re ready to get to work on your amazing elementary teacher resume.
Let’s review how to write the best resume for elementary teachers:
- Use the reverse chronological format to make it easy for potential employers to review your work history and experience
- Include competitive skills and qualifications that recruiters look for
- Quantify the impact of your resume by including measurable results of past successes
- Organize your hard skills and soft skills in a way that highlights your best and most relevant qualities
- Consider including additional sections to stand out from other elementary teaching applicants
- Attach a cover letter to introduce yourself and enhance your application
Now you’ve got an outstanding elementary school teacher resume that’s ready for a gold star!
Frequently asked questions about elementary teacher resumes
What does a current elementary teacher's resume look like?
Every candidate is unique, so no two resumes will look exactly alike. However, there are some common qualities for a strong elementary teacher resume.
A one-page, reverse chronological resume in PDF format is a good standard. Use different colors, fonts, and organized sections to stand out from other candidates.
Browse our collection of resume examples by category for inspiration.
Where can I find free elementary teacher resume templates?
Enhancv has a large collection of resume templates that can be edited and downloaded in our resume builder.
You can also find additional resume templates through other online resume builders and word processors.
What should I put on my elementary teacher resume?
Your elementary teacher resume should include a header with clear contact info, a summary that introduces you to recruiters, and a work history that highlights your greatest achievements.
Read through our guide above for further advice on how to craft an elementary teacher resume that will help you get one step closer to your next job.