How to Become a Kindergarten Teacher in Louisiana for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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If you have a passion for early childhood education and a desire to make a lasting impact on young lives, becoming a kindergarten teacher in Louisiana could be the perfect path for you. In Louisiana, kindergarten teachers play a crucial role in setting students up for success, all while earning an average annual salary of $38,551.

Kindergarten is a unique and transformative stage in a child's development — a time when students are not only learning to read and count, but also building social skills, developing emotional awareness, and discovering how to navigate the world beyond their home. In this guide, I will break down the steps you need to take to become a certified kindergarten teacher in Louisiana — from education and certification requirements to job outlook and helpful resources — so you can confidently begin your journey into this meaningful and rewarding career.

Key Things to Know About Becoming a Kindergarten Teacher in Louisiana

• Complete a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from an accredited Louisiana institution.

• Pass the required Praxis Core and Elementary Education exams to obtain state licensure through Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE).

• Fulfill 270 hours of supervised student teaching in a BESE-approved program.

• Earn an average annual salary of $38,551 as a kindergarten teacher in Louisiana.

• Renew your teaching certification every five years by completing 150 approved professional development hours in pedagogy.

Table of Contents

1. What qualifications do you need to become a kindergarten teacher in Louisiana?
2. What skills are important for a successful kindergarten teacher in Louisiana?
3. What is the average salary of a kindergarten teacher in Louisiana?
4. What are the job responsibilities of a kindergarten teacher in Louisiana?
5. How can you get teaching experience for kindergarten in Louisiana?
6. What is the job outlook for kindergarten teachers in Louisiana?
7. What are the challenges of being a kindergarten teacher in Louisiana?
8. Would Special Education Certification Enhance My Kindergarten Teaching Career in Louisiana?
9. How Can Mentorship and Professional Networks Empower Your Kindergarten Teaching Career in Louisiana?
10. What is the cheapest way to get a teaching credential in Louisiana?
11. Can transitioning to private school teaching benefit my kindergarten career in Louisiana?
12. How Do Kindergarten and Elementary Teacher Requirements Differ in Louisiana?
13. What continuing education opportunities are available for kindergarten teachers in Louisiana?
14. How can you find a job as a kindergarten teacher in Louisiana?
15. What are the best resources for kindergarten teachers in Louisiana?
16. Other Things You Need to Know About Becoming a Kindergarten Teacher in Louisiana

What qualifications do you need to become a kindergarten teacher in Louisiana?

To meet the qualifications for becoming a kindergarten teacher in Louisiana, aspiring educators must follow a structured pathway that includes education, hands-on experience, and licensure requirements. Aspiring educators can consult our list of Louisiana teacher education programs for detailed guidance.

Here's a breakdown of the key steps:

• Earn a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution through an approved teacher preparation program, including coursework in child development and classroom management.

• Complete a supervised student-teaching residency under the guidance of a certified mentor teacher.

• Pass the Praxis Core Academic Skills exams (reading, writing, and mathematics) and the Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching: Early Childhood, meeting benchmarks set by the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE).

• Submit an application for an Initial Elementary Teaching Certificate through the LDOE’s online certification portal.

• Participate in targeted preparation opportunities such as summer boot camps, educator webinars, and professional development events hosted by the LDOE.

• Access additional support through educational service centers and community college preparatory programs designed to strengthen teaching skills and exam readiness.

One teacher recalls spending late nights in a steamy Lafayette library, poring over practice exams and reflecting that becoming a certified kindergarten teacher in Louisiana required tenacity and creative scheduling to juggle family obligations with prep seminars. She describes feeling exhilarated when colleagues in a six-week online review course cheered her score improvements, reinforcing her confidence in the process.

What skills are important for a successful kindergarten teacher in Louisiana?

To be a successful kindergarten teacher in Louisiana, educators must possess a variety of skills that blend effective teaching methods with cultural responsiveness, especially in Louisiana’s diverse classrooms.

Here are the key skills needed for success:

• Proficiency in State Standards: Understanding and adhering to Louisiana’s early learning standards and Ancillary Certificate requirements.

• Communication Skills: Effectively engaging with parents and young learners through strong verbal and written communication.

• Cultural Competency: Being sensitive to and knowledgeable about the Cajun, Creole, and multilingual communities.

• Classroom Management: Implementing strategies to manage behavior and create a positive classroom environment for young children.

• Social-Emotional Learning: Facilitating social-emotional growth in line with state frameworks.

• Curriculum Design: Creating creative, locally relevant lesson plans that incorporate Louisiana’s history and traditions.

• Adaptability: Remaining flexible and resourceful in under-resourced settings.

• Technology Integration: Incorporating basic technology to enhance digital literacy and engagement in the classroom.

What is the average salary of a kindergarten teacher in Louisiana?

The average annual pay for a kindergarten teacher in Louisiana is $38,551, which breaks down to about $18.53 per hour, or approximately $741 per week and $3,212 per month. However, salaries can vary widely across the state, with some positions paying as much as $56,439 and others as low as $19,668 per year.

This fluctuation in salary is influenced by a range of factors, including experience, education, and location. Here are some of the key elements that can impact a kindergarten teacher’s earnings in Louisiana:

• Years of Experience: Teachers with more classroom experience tend to earn higher salaries due to their proven track record and accumulated expertise.
• Education Level: Holding a master’s degree or additional certifications can lead to higher pay compared to those with only a bachelor’s degree.
• District Funding: Salaries can differ significantly depending on the school district's budget, local tax base, and available state funding.
• Geographic Location: Urban or suburban areas often offer higher salaries to attract and retain qualified teachers, while rural districts may pay less.
• Certifications and Specializations: Additional credentials in areas like ESL, special education, or curriculum development can boost earning potential.
• Professional Development: Active participation in ongoing training or leadership roles within a school may qualify educators for stipends or pay increases.

Educators pursuing a doctorate can explore dynamic career options with EdD, often triggering top‑tier salary adjustments and access to leadership roles in curriculum design or administration.

What are the job responsibilities of a kindergarten teacher in Louisiana?

Kindergarten teachers in Louisiana play a vital role in shaping young learners’ academic and social growth. By integrating Louisiana’s education standards with developmentally appropriate practices, they create inclusive, supportive classrooms that prepare children for future success.

Here’s a breakdown of their core responsibilities:

• Lesson Planning: Designing and implementing daily lesson plans aligned with Louisiana Student Standards across core subjects and tailored to meet the needs of diverse learners.
• Developmental Assessment: Administering and interpreting state-approved developmental screenings to track student progress in key areas such as language, math, and social-emotional growth.
• Classroom Management: Managing daily routines including arrival, dismissal, lunch, recess, and emergency procedures to ensure a safe and structured environment.
• Student Documentation: Maintaining comprehensive student records—attendance, behavior, screening results, and parent communications—within the Louisiana Student Information System.
• Family Engagement: Coordinating with families through conferences, home visits, and culturally relevant events to support student readiness and development.
• Student Support Services: Collaborating with special education professionals and health staff to implement IEPs and conduct required screenings, ensuring each student’s individual needs are met.
• Cultural Integration: Incorporating Louisiana’s cultural heritage and inclusive practices into instruction to support bilingual learners and celebrate classroom diversity.

How can you get teaching experience for kindergarten in Louisiana?

Gaining hands-on experience is a crucial step toward becoming a kindergarten teacher in Louisiana. Whether you’re enrolled in a preparation program or exploring alternative routes, there are several pathways to build classroom confidence and meet state requirements:

• Student Teaching Placements: Gain hands-on experience in a kindergarten classroom under the guidance of a mentor teacher. These placements typically last a full semester and provide opportunities to observe IEP meetings, parent-teacher conferences, and curriculum planning sessions in school districts across Louisiana.

• Paraprofessional Roles: Serving as a paraprofessional in public elementary schools offers the chance to manage small groups, support behavior strategies and develop lesson materials while earning a salary; candidates usually need at least an associate degree, and those seeking cost-effective credential pathways can explore our list of the best value online education degrees.

• Substitute Teaching: Begin teaching in classrooms after earning a Louisiana Substitute Teaching Certificate. Many aspiring educators gain valuable experience through long-term placements, especially in rural parishes, where they provide consistent instruction and build familiarity with diverse classroom environments.

• Internships and Volunteer Programs: Partnering with Head Start centers or early childhood community initiatives provides valuable clock hours, and engaging in kindergarten teaching internships in Louisiana through approved EPPs or local nonprofits deepens understanding of at‑risk family support and early learning standards.

• Educator Cadet Initiatives: Participate in high school–based training programs that combine paid classroom experience with mentorship. These initiatives often lead to district employment and help retain future teachers in their home parishes by creating a structured pathway from high school into the teaching profession.

What is the job outlook for kindergarten teachers in Louisiana?

The job outlook for kindergarten teachers in Louisiana is currently stable, with no projected employment growth between 2020 and 2030. While the total number of positions is expected to remain at 180 employees, there are still opportunities for new educators to enter the field.

Each year, approximately 20 job openings are projected across the state. These openings typically arise from teacher retirements, career changes, or relocations rather than new job creation.

Key takeaways from Louisiana's kindergarten teacher employment outlook:

• Stable Employment: No change in total kindergarten teaching positions is expected over the next decade.
• Annual Openings: About 20 openings per year due to turnover, not growth.
• Consistent Demand: New teachers are still needed to replace outgoing educators and maintain classroom continuity.
• Opportunities in Rural Areas: Some parishes may experience more frequent turnover, offering entry points for new teachers.

To better understand the professional landscape, I created a chart showing the most common majors among current kindergarten teachers in the US, offering insight into the academic backgrounds that often lead to roles in early childhood education.

What are the challenges of being a kindergarten teacher in Louisiana?

Kindergarten teachers in Louisiana often face a unique mix of professional and logistical challenges. From certification hurdles to classroom resource limitations, these factors can impact both educator well-being and student success.

• Meeting Certification Requirements: Fulfilling degree, exam, and practicum expectations can lead to financial strain and delays in entering the profession.
• Managing Lower Salaries: Compensation often falls below the national average, making it difficult to attract and retain teachers, especially in rural areas.
• Providing Classroom Supplies: Many teachers personally fund classroom materials to support students in under-resourced communities.
• Handling Large Class Sizes: Student-to-teacher ratios can limit individualized instruction and increase daily classroom management responsibilities.
• Balancing Continuing Education: Required professional development hours are often completed outside of school hours, complicating work-life balance.
• Facing High Turnover Rates: Frequent staff changes disrupt instruction and increase recruitment and training costs for schools.
• Managing Emotional Strain: The cumulative demands of planning, communication, and assessment contribute to high levels of stress and burnout.

To bridge the gap, you can check out our list of the best online bachelor's degree in early childhood education programs to enhance your qualifications and gain more flexibility in your career path.

Additionally, I created the following chart to highlight the states with the largest class sizes in public elementary schools during the 2020–21 school year. Notably, Louisiana ranks 5th with an average class size of 27.6.

Would Special Education Certification Enhance My Kindergarten Teaching Career in Louisiana?

Expanding your qualifications with special education certification can provide targeted strategies for addressing diverse learner needs and foster a more inclusive classroom environment. This additional credential not only strengthens your instructional skills but also positions you as a versatile educator capable of supporting students requiring specialized attention. For those interested in advancing this aspect of their expertise, consider exploring a special education certification online Louisiana for tailored coursework and guidance.

How Can Mentorship and Professional Networks Empower Your Kindergarten Teaching Career in Louisiana?

Strong professional mentorship and active networking are essential for refining innovative teaching practices and navigating evolving classroom dynamics in Louisiana. Engaging with experienced educators and joining specialized professional groups can offer actionable feedback and strategic insights, enabling teachers to efficiently address classroom challenges and foster a collaborative learning environment. Reviewing preschool teacher qualifications in Louisiana can further align your development with state expectations and enhance overall instructional excellence.

What is the cheapest way to get a teaching credential in Louisiana?

Evaluating affordable certification programs is a key step for prospective educators. Research alternative certification routes that streamline training and reduce overall costs while meeting state requirements. Consider program tuition, associated fees, and available financial aid options to make an informed decision. For a detailed exploration of budget-friendly certification strategies, refer to our guide on the cheapest way to get a teaching credential in Louisiana.

Can transitioning to private school teaching benefit my kindergarten career in Louisiana?

Private school environments can offer distinct professional advantages, including alternative curricular approaches, enhanced autonomy, and varied community cultures. Educators considering this pathway should evaluate differences in classroom structure, funding models, and stakeholder expectations. Additionally, understanding the nuances of private school hiring practices and certification requirements is essential. For detailed guidance on entering this sector, review how to become a private school teacher in Louisiana.

How Do Kindergarten and Elementary Teacher Requirements Differ in Louisiana?

While both kindergarten and elementary educators in Louisiana share a commitment to high standards and professional excellence, their preparation paths highlight unique focal points. Kindergarten teacher preparation emphasizes early childhood development, foundational literacy, and social–emotional learning strategies, while elementary educators are expected to master a broader curriculum with diverse subject matter and grade-specific instructional techniques. To align your career goals, compare these frameworks and identify which pathway best supports your long-term ambitions, including the targeted skills and certifications required for each. For further guidance on foundational criteria, consult elementary school teacher requirements in Louisiana.

What continuing education opportunities are available for kindergarten teachers in Louisiana?

To stay certified and up to date with evolving classroom practices, kindergarten teachers in Louisiana are required to participate in ongoing professional development. These opportunities are designed to help educators strengthen their instructional techniques:

• Attending LDOE-Approved Workshops: Gain points through professional workshops sanctioned by the Louisiana Department of Education and aligned with early childhood standards.

• Participating in In-District Seminars: Join school-led training sessions that focus on practical strategies and curriculum updates.

• Completing Graduate-Level Coursework: Enroll in advanced education classes at LSU or University of Louisiana system schools to expand expertise.

• Presenting at or Attending State Conferences: Engage in events like the Louisiana Early Childhood Education Association annual meeting to stay current on trends and policies.

• Joining Peer-Coaching Cohorts: Collaborate with fellow educators in mentorship and feedback loops that promote shared learning.

• Engaging in Professional Learning Communities: Take part in ongoing group discussions centered on reflective practice and instructional improvement.

• Attending Multi-Day Institutes: Participate in intensive sessions focused on emergent literacy, early learning frameworks, and culturally responsive teaching strategies.

• Recording Progress in the ePD Portal: Log all completed activities in the LDOE’s online portal for validation and certification tracking.

To further advance your career, you may pursue an online master's in early childhood education to deepen your expertise, open doors to leadership positions, and qualify for higher-paying roles.

How can you find a job as a kindergarten teacher in Louisiana?

Finding a job as a kindergarten teacher in Louisiana requires a combination of proactive job-search strategies, an understanding of local hiring practices, and a commitment to networking. With a competitive job market and varying district needs, it’s important to be diligent in monitoring job postings, tailoring your application materials, and engaging with the local education community. 

Here's how you can strengthen your job search:

• Monitor Job Portals: Register on LouisianaBelieves.com and set keyword alerts for "kindergarten teacher" and "early childhood" positions to catch new listings before they appear on larger employment sites.

• Target Parish-Specific HR Pages: Focus on HR pages for Orleans, Jefferson, and East Baton Rouge parishes, where a significant percentage of vacancies are first posted, and subscribe to real-time notifications for immediate application opportunities.

• Engage Local Networks: Attend events such as LAEYC conferences and TeachFest gatherings to build connections with experienced principals and veteran teachers, whose recommendations can significantly influence hiring decisions.

• Tailor Application Materials: Include a digital portfolio with sample lesson plans, classroom videos, and testimonials that demonstrate differentiation techniques and adherence to Louisiana’s Early Learning and Development Standards.

• Prepare for Interviews: Use the Teacher Leader Model Standards to practice scenario-based responses on topics like engaging English language learners, integrating Title I support, and implementing the Louisiana Comprehensive Curriculum.

• Explore Alternative Entry Points: Consider student-teaching residencies and long-term substitute roles, which often convert to full-time positions and provide valuable classroom experience to strengthen your professional profile.

What are the best resources for kindergarten teachers in Louisiana?

Aspiring kindergarten teachers in Louisiana can tap into a variety of resources that provide valuable support throughout their certification process and professional journey. These resources are designed to assist with meeting certification requirements, securing financial aid, continuing education, and staying connected with the wider education community:

• Louisiana Department of Education Certification Guidelines: The Louisiana Department of Education offers essential information on meeting state certification requirements, including passing the Praxis exams and completing an approved teacher preparation program. This resource helps guide candidates through the steps necessary to become certified in Louisiana.
• U.S. Department of Education Teacher Preparation Programs Directory: The Teacher Preparation Programs directory includes a list of accredited programs, providing important data on program effectiveness, attrition rates, and accreditation status. This is an invaluable tool for selecting the right preparation program.
• National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) Early Childhood Graduates Employment Statistics: The National Center for Education Statistics provides detailed data on employment trends for early childhood graduates, offering insights into job placement rates and employment opportunities for new teachers.
• National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Louisiana Events and Conferences: NAEYC offers numerous events in Louisiana, such as conferences, webinars, and networking opportunities. These events allow teachers to stay updated on best practices, new research, and build connections within the early childhood education community.
• University Job Boards: Both Louisiana State University and the University of Louisiana at Lafayette offer job boards and continuing education opportunities. These resources are perfect for keeping up with career development and professional learning in the field.

Here's What Kindergarten Teachers Have to Say About Their Career in Louisiana

• "I still get chills recalling the first time my kindergarteners at Jefferson Parish Primary greeted me with handmade Mardi Gras masks. Thanks to the graduate certificate from Louisiana State University, I’ve refined my literacy workshops to ignite that magic in every child. The high demand for early childhood educators across Southeast Louisiana means I’m constantly invited to lead professional learning communities, fueling my growth and passion for teaching." - Alice
• "I was blown away when my puppet workshop in a Lafayette Head Start classroom earned a district grant for arts integration; partnering with the University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s early childhood cohort gave me tools to expand that project into every Baton Rouge school. Building community trust through weekly family literacy nights has deepened my purpose and shown me that teaching is as much about neighborhood bonds as it is about ABCs." - Sylvia
• "It wasn’t until I biked along the Red River levee after a hectic day in Monroe that I realized teaching kindergarten here offers the perfect work‑life balance; with Louisiana’s affordable housing and the certification support from Louisiana Christian University, I’ve coached my daughter’s soccer team without missing a beat. Now, after nearly twenty years in Room 102, I still marvel at my students’ energy and feel proud of a career that harmonizes with my family’s rhythm." - Britney

Other Things You Need to Know About Becoming a Kindergarten Teacher in Louisiana

Can you specialize in certain areas of early childhood education as a kindergarten teacher in Louisiana?

Yes, as a kindergarten teacher in Louisiana, you can specialize in areas like literacy development, mathematics, science, or social-emotional learning. The state allows educators to earn endorsements in bilingual education, special education, and reading intervention. Many teachers pursue graduate certificates or professional development courses to enhance their expertise.

To specialize, you must have a valid teaching certificate from the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education. Adding an endorsement requires completing approved coursework and passing the relevant Praxis exam. Ongoing professional development helps refine these skills.

Are there alternative routes to becoming a kindergarten teacher in Louisiana for career changers or non-traditional students?

Yes, career changers and non-traditional students in Louisiana can pursue alternative certification routes to become kindergarten teachers. The Alternative Certification for Teachers (ACT) program allows candidates with a bachelor's degree to earn provisional certification while teaching. They complete an approved educator preparation program, receive mentorship, and pass state exams to become fully certified.

District residency pathways offer another option, where candidates teach under supervision while fulfilling certification requirements on the job. These routes typically take one to two years and provide a flexible transition into kindergarten teaching.

What types of schools or educational settings hire kindergarten teachers in Louisiana?

Kindergarten teachers in Louisiana have various educational settings to explore for employment opportunities. Here are some of the main options:

• Public Schools: Hire kindergarten teachers to deliver state-approved curricula in most communities.
• Charter Schools: Recruit qualified educators to teach within state-aligned programs.
• Private/Parochial Schools: Hire teachers for faith-based or specialized programs.
• Early Childhood Education Centers: Employ teachers to bridge preschool and elementary school programs.
• Head Start Programs: Seek certified teachers to support early childhood education in underserved areas.

What support systems are available for new kindergarten teachers in Louisiana during their first year?

New kindergarten teachers in Louisiana have access to a variety of support systems designed to help them succeed in their first year. From mentorship programs to professional development workshops, these resources aim to provide the guidance and tools necessary for building strong teaching practices and fostering long-term career growth.

• Induction Program: The Louisiana Department of Education provides an induction program with experienced mentors to assist with instructional planning and classroom management.

• District Workshops: School districts offer workshops focusing on curriculum standards, assessment strategies, and family engagement.

• Professional Learning Communities: Teachers can join regional networks to share resources and attend online learning modules.

• Observations and Feedback: Regular classroom observations and coaching cycles provide constructive feedback to help improve teaching practices.

• Online Resource Hub: The state offers an online platform with curated resources for new teachers to enhance their skills.

References:

• National Center for Education Statistics. (n.d.). National Teacher and Principal Survey (NTPS) Data. Nces.ed.gov. Retrieved 24 April 2025.

• O*Net Online. (n.d.). Kindergarten Teachers, Except Special Education - Local Trends. Onetonline.org. Retrieved 24 April 2025.

• TeacherStep. (n.d.). State Certification Requirements for Kindergarten Teachers. Teacherstep.com. Retrieved 24 April 2025.

• University of Louisiana Monroe. (n.d.). Handbook of Clinical and Field Experiences. Ulm.edu. Retrieved 24 April 2025.

• Zippia. (n.d.). Kindergarten Teacher Education Requirements. Zippia.com. Retrieved 24 April 2025.

• ZipRecruiter. (n.d.). Kindergarten Teacher Salary in Louisiana. Ziprecruiter.com. Retrieved 24 April 2025.