In 2002, the median annual pay rate for elementary, middle and secondary school teachers was ranged from $39,810 to $44,340. The lowest ten percent of teacher�s earned an annual salary of approximately $24,960 to $29,850 and the highest ten percent received about $62,890 to $68,530.  

Median annual earnings for special educations teachers were approximately $42,690 in 2002.  The lowest ten percent earned nearly $28,680 and the highest ten percent earned more than $67,810.  Many schools allow teachers to receive extra pay for coaching sports, managing extracurricular activities and working in the school system during the summer.

Annual earnings for postsecondary teachers vary according to experience and type of institution, location, and field of study.  In 2002, median annual earnings of all postsecondary teachers were approximately $49,040.  The lowest ten percent earned less than $23,080 and the highest ten percent earned more than $92,430. Additionally, postsecondary teachers earn many other benefits which include access to campus facilities, tuition waivers for dependents, housing and travel allowances and paid sabbatical leaves.

Over the next ten years, employment for all teachers is expected to grow faster than the average of all other occupations in the United States.  According to national trends, during this time, job positions are likely to rise about 21%.  This means there will be approximately 9,860 job openings for teachers each year.

The demand for elementary, middle and secondary school teachers is estimated to increase due to reports of improved job prospects, increased pay rates, involvement of teachers in school policy and generally a greater public interest in education.  Another reason for demand can be attributed to teachers needed for public schools being built in order to solve the problem of overcrowded schools.

In recent years the number of students that require special education classes and services has begun to grow.  Additionally, advances in the medical world have resulted in more children surviving accidents and illnesses.  However, these children continue to have various impairments. These factors and the growing awareness that many children with disabilities can greatly benefit from special education courses make it likely that there will continue to be a demand for these types of teachers.

During the next ten years there will be increases in college and university enrollment among high school students and adults returning to colleges in order to continue their education. This will largely increase the need of postsecondary school teachers.  People who are already in the workforce have a growing need to update their knowledge and skills in order to earn higher job positions within their companies.  This will also continue to create new teaching opportunities.