Kansas is well-known for its Great Plains, barbecue, and The Wizard of Oz – but recently, it has become a sought-after destination for an unexpected reason: teaching jobs. The Sunflower State employed over 36,000 public school teachers in 2022 and is increasingly recognized as an ideal place for those starting their teaching careers.
If you’re curious about teaching in Kansas, this guide will cover everything from salaries and relocation costs to lifestyle insights and job-hunting tips. Ready to begin your journey as a teacher in Kansas? Let’s dive in.
Teaching Jobs in Kansas
The top resource for finding teaching jobs in Kansas is educatekansas.org, a platform listing various positions from classroom teachers to IT administrators, librarians, sports instructors, and career coaches. With over 1,000 job postings at any time, it offers an excellent resource for job seekers.
One standout feature is the Service Share Portal, a system that allows districts to share certified roles. For instance, if one district has a teacher on a .4 FTE contract and another district needs a part-time teacher to fill a .6 FTE role, the platform facilitates collaboration between districts. This flexibility benefits both teachers and schools by providing opportunities for additional hours or shared responsibilities.
Kansas Teaching Salaries
As of January 2024, the average salary for a public school teacher in Kansas is around $55,040. Starting salaries typically begin at $39,000 and can reach up to $77,000, depending on experience and district. If you aspire to higher positions, school principals can earn over $100,000, with some salaries exceeding $130,000. For those aiming for district leadership roles, such as a superintendent, salaries average $170,000, with some districts offering over $200,000.
Relocating to Kansas: Costs to Consider
Moving to Kansas can be exciting but comes with costs. Here’s a breakdown of the expenses you’ll likely encounter:
- Housing
The average home price in Kansas is $210,328 as of February 2024, making it much more affordable than states like Massachusetts, where the average home costs $558,313. - Food
Kansas offers the second least expensive grocery costs in the U.S., with an average monthly food cost of $261 per person. Dining out is also more affordable than in many other states. - Childcare
Childcare in Kansas is relatively affordable, with an average monthly cost of $935, compared to cities like New York, where it can exceed $20,000 annually. - Utilities
Utility costs in Kansas are comparable to national averages. Here’s a typical monthly breakdown:- Energy bill: $114.23
- Water: $24
- Internet: $19
- Natural gas: $2
Public Holidays in Kansas
Kansas observes a number of state holidays in addition to standard paid time off and summer breaks. These holidays include:
| HOLIDAY | DATE |
|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 |
| Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday | 3rd Monday in January |
| Presidents’ Day | 3rd Monday in February |
| Memorial Day | Last Monday in May |
| Independence Day | July 4 |
| Labor Day | 1st Monday in September |
| Columbus Day | 2nd Monday in October |
| Veterans Day | November 11 |
| Thanksgiving Day | 4th Thursday in November |
| Christmas Day | December 25 |
- New Year’s Day (January 1)
- Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (3rd Monday in January)
- Presidents’ Day (3rd Monday in February)
- Memorial Day (Last Monday in May)
- Independence Day (July 4)
- Labor Day (1st Monday in September)
- Columbus Day (2nd Monday in October)
- Veterans Day (November 11)
- Thanksgiving Day (4th Thursday in November)
- Christmas Day (December 25)
How to Secure Your First Teaching Job in Kansas
1. Meet Education and Certification Requirements:
Most public schools in Kansas require only an undergraduate degree to begin teaching. Once hired, the school will typically provide the necessary training and certification. This experience will prove valuable if you ever plan to teach in another state.
2. Craft a Strong Resume and Cover Letter:
Your cover letter is your first opportunity to introduce yourself to potential employers. Highlight your relevant education, experience, and certifications, and tailor each application to the specific school or position you are applying for.
3. Build a Teaching Portfolio:
Although not always required, having a portfolio showcasing your achievements can set you apart from other candidates. Schools in Kansas appreciate motivated and creative teachers, so this is an excellent way to make a lasting impression.
4. Use Online Job Boards:
There are several excellent platforms for finding teaching positions in Kansas:
- educatekansas.org: This is the most comprehensive site for job postings, covering roles like teachers, principals, IT staff, and superintendents.
- indeed.com: While not as extensive, this platform offers a focused list of district job postings and can supplement your search.
- LinkedIn.com: Surprisingly, LinkedIn often features teaching jobs not found elsewhere, so it’s worth including in your search.
5. Prepare for Interviews:
Once you land an interview, expect to discuss your teaching philosophy, classroom management techniques, and how you handle various challenges. Research the school district and be ready to explain why you want to teach there.
6. Secure References:
References from previous colleagues, supervisors, or professors who know your abilities and character will strengthen your application. Choose people who can speak to your strengths as a teacher and professional.
Conclusion
Teaching in Kansas offers rewarding experiences, from working with students from diverse backgrounds to collaborating with colleagues who share a unique Midwest sense of humor. With a relatively low cost of living and numerous job opportunities, Kansas provides a promising start or progression in your teaching career. Whether you’re drawn by the job prospects, lifestyle, or affordability, the Sunflower State might just be the perfect place to grow your teaching career.
Ready to make your move? Start exploring those job listings and take the first step toward a fulfilling teaching career in Kansas.
