- According to the StateUniversity and PE Central websites, physical education teachers tend to earn approximately the same wages other types of teachers earn. Based on 2009 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, teachers in the lowest 10th percentile of earners -- which usually represents entry-level positions -- make between $28,960 and $34,600 a year.
- Typically, the higher grade level a physical education teacher instructs, the higher his compensation is. The lowest starting salaries, however, are found with postsecondary teachers, who start as low as $28,960, according to 2009 BLS information. Notably, however, these teachers have the largest pay range and can earn more than $100,000 per year -- the highest rate for any level -- when experienced. Kindergarten teachers make the next highest entry-level salary, $31,320. The starting wage for elementary teachers is $33,830, while middle school teachers make $34,360. Secondary school teachers earn $34,600 when just starting out.
- Physical education teachers may opt for positions in either private or public schools. Usually, teachers in private schools make less than those in public schools, as shown by the U.S. Department of Education. As long as a private school has adequate financing, however, it can offer physical education teachers rates that are comparable to those found in public schools.
- In school districts across the nation, teachers are facing budget cuts. P.E. teachers tend to be safe from these cuts because there is a stress on the connection between health and academic performance as of 2011. Schools still offer buyouts to many teachers, however, and some experienced P.E. teachers enter retirement. To save money, schools aren't necessarily hiring teachers who are experienced and can command higher wages. They are replacing retired or bought-out teachers with "green," rookie teachers in every subject, including P.E. Subsequently, there may be a larger percentage of P.E. teachers receiving entry-level wages, which may give a false impression of what the industry pays overall through a P.E. teacher's career.
previous post