Career

Preschool Teaching Assistant Salary In Arkansas 2024

Learn everything you need to know about becoming a Preschool Teaching Assistant, including salary, schools, and programs.

Preschool Teaching Assistant Salary in Arkansas

Annual Median: $27,980
Hourly Median: $13.45

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Annual and Hourly Preschool Teaching Assistant Arkansas Salary Table:

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
PercentileAnnual SalaryHourly Wage
10th$23,570$11.33
25th$24,500$11.78
Median$27,980$13.45
75th$29,630$14.24
90th$32,590$15.67

Best Schools to become a Preschool Teaching Assistant in Arkansas 2024

Arkansas State University

Jonesboro, AR

In-State Tuition:$6,888
Out-of-State Tuition:$12,744
Admission Rate:70%
Graduation Rate:53%
Total Enrollment:13,190

Harding University

Searcy, AR

In-State Tuition:$22,500
Out-of-State Tuition:$22,500
Admission Rate:45%
Graduation Rate:69%
Total Enrollment:4,805

Henderson State University

Arkadelphia, AR

In-State Tuition:$5,880
Out-of-State Tuition:$8,088
Admission Rate:71%
Graduation Rate:39%
Total Enrollment:2,519

Preschool Teaching Assistant Salary in Arkansas FAQs

What factors influence the salary of an Early Childhood Educator in Arkansas?

Several factors can significantly affect your earnings as an Early Childhood Educator in Arkansas. These include:

  • Level of Education: Generally, educators with higher degrees (e.g., bachelor’s or master’s) tend to earn more than those with just an associate degree or a high school diploma.

  • Years of Experience: As with many professions, more experienced educators typically command higher salaries. Experience in various roles or additional certifications can also play a role.

  • Geographic Location: Salaries can vary within the state, with urban areas like Little Rock often offering higher wages compared to rural regions due to cost of living differences.

  • Work Environment: Your salary may depend on whether you work in public or private institutions, non-profits, or daycare centers, as pay structures can differ across these settings.

  • Specializations: Specializing in areas such as special education or developmental psychology can lead to increased salary opportunities.

Are there opportunities for salary advancement in early childhood education?

Yes, there are several ways to advance your salary in early childhood education:

  • Continuing Education: Pursuing additional degrees or certifications can open doors for positions with higher pay, such as administrative roles or specialized teaching positions.

  • Gaining Experience: The more experience you gain, particularly in leadership roles or in diverse educational settings, the more likely you are to qualify for higher-paying positions.

  • Professional Development: Engaging in workshops, conferences, or relevant training can bolster your qualifications, making you more competitive for promotions and pay increases.

How does part-time work affect salary for Early Childhood Educators?

Part-time work can significantly impact your salary and benefits:

  • Hourly Wage: Part-time educators may earn an hourly wage, which could be higher on an hourly basis than full-time positions, but will not provide the same overall salary due to reduced hours.

  • Benefits: Many part-time positions do not offer benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, or paid leave, which are often part of full-time employment packages.

  • Flexibility vs. Income: While part-time positions offer greater flexibility, they can lead to lower overall earnings. Balancing the desire for flexibility with financial needs is important.

What benefits are typically included in Early Childhood Educator positions?

Benefits can vary widely among employers, but many Early Childhood Educator positions in Arkansas may include:

  • Health Insurance: Many full-time positions offer health, dental, and vision insurance.

  • Retirement Plans: Some employers provide access to retirement savings plans, such as 401(k).

  • Paid Time Off: You might receive vacation days, sick leave, or personal days.

  • Professional Development: Opportunities for training, workshops, and scholarships for further education may also be offered.

How does the overall economic climate affect salaries in early childhood education?

The broader economic climate can influence early childhood educator salaries in various ways:

  • Funding for Education: During times of economic growth, public and private entities may increase funding for early childhood education programs, leading to potential salary increases.

  • Demand for Educators: A growing economy often correlates with a rising demand for quality early childhood education, which can drive up salaries as providers seek to attract qualified staff.

  • State Budget Variability: In times of economic downturn, budget cuts can affect salaries and staffing levels, potentially leading to salary freezes or reductions.

Are there salary differences for teaching diverse age groups?

Yes, salaries can differ depending on the age group you are teaching:

  • Infant and Toddler Care: Educators focusing on infants and toddlers may earn different wages than those teaching preschool or pre-kindergarten, often based on the complexity and demands of the age group.

  • Special Needs Education: If you work with children who have special needs, you may have access to higher-paying positions due to the specialized skills required.

Understanding these differences can help in making informed career choices within early childhood education.