Exploring Side Hustles: How Teachers Can Supplement Their Income

Teachers Turn to Side Hustles to Supplement Incomes Amidst Declining Salaries

In a recent report by the National Education Association, it was revealed that teachers in the United States are earning 5% less on average than they did a decade ago when adjusted for inflation. With the average starting teacher salary now at $44,530 per year, many educators are turning to side hustles to make ends meet.

The rise of entrepreneurship and the gig economy has made side hustles more popular than ever, with projections indicating that there will be over 86 million freelancers in the US by 2027. Teachers are exploring various avenues to earn extra income on top of their standard teaching salaries.

Side Hustles for Teachers

Here are some lucrative side hustles that teachers can pursue to supplement their incomes:

Sell Lesson Plans

Teachers can sell their original educational materials such as lesson plans, worksheets, and presentations on platforms like Sellfy, Classful, and Teachers Pay Teachers to earn extra income.

Create Online Courses

Channeling their teaching skills, educators can develop online courses on platforms like Thinkific, Udemy, and Teachable to cater to individuals looking to acquire new skills.

Offer Tutoring Services

Teachers can provide private tutoring services to students in need, either in person or online through platforms like Wyzant, Preply, and Tutorly.

Administer Tests

By overseeing standardized tests like the ACT or SAT, teachers can earn additional income as test proctors, with rates ranging from $15 to $20 per hour.

Become a Freelance Writer

Utilizing their writing skills, teachers can work as freelance writers creating various written materials for clients on platforms like Upwork and Fiverr.

Work for a Summer Camp

During school breaks, teachers can work as summer camp counselors to earn extra cash while enjoying the outdoors.

Teach Summer School

Teachers can take up positions as summer school instructors to supplement their income during the traditional school break.

Run After-School Programs

By assisting with after-school programs such as sports teams or coding classes, teachers can earn extra income while utilizing their skills.

Become a Virtual Assistant

Teachers can work as virtual assistants, helping clients with tasks like scheduling and email management, on platforms like Fancy Hands, Zirtual, and Indeed.

Write a Book

Teachers with specialized knowledge can consider writing a book, either through traditional publishing or self-publishing, to generate additional income.

Pick Up Odd Jobs

Exploring platforms like Taskrabbit, Handy, and Thumbtack, teachers can take on odd jobs at their own pace to supplement their primary income.

With a plethora of side hustle options available, teachers can choose the ones that best suit their skills and schedule to supplement their incomes and navigate the challenges posed by declining salaries in the education sector.

Side Hustles for Teachers FAQ

What is the best side hustle for teachers?

Some lucrative side hustles for teachers include tutoring, selling lesson plans, running after-school programs, and creating online classes for sale.

How can teachers supplement income?

Teachers can supplement their income through various avenues such as freelance writing, proctoring tests, and offering virtual assistant services.

Can teachers make extra money in the summer?

Teachers can indeed earn extra income during the summer by taking up roles such as teaching summer school, administering standardized tests, or working at summer camps.