The median annual wage for kindergarten teachers, except special education was $52,620 in May 2016. The median annual wage for elementary school teachers, except special education was $55,800 in May 2016. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $36,560, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $88,590. Kindergarten and elementary school teachers generally work during school hours when students are present. They may meet with parents, students, and other teachers before and after school. They often spend time in the evenings and on weekends grading papers and preparing lessons.