71% of U.S. Teachers Work Second Jobs Amid Economic Hardship

Financial strain is forcing a significant majority of U.S. public school teachers to take on second jobs, according to a recent report. The "Teaching Tomorrow" annual report, a collaboration between the Walton Family Foundation and Gallup, revealed that 21% of teachers are experiencing financial hardship, while a striking 71% admit to working at least one additional job. These supplementary roles are increasingly diverse, extending beyond traditional tutoring to include driving for ride-sharing platforms, food delivery, bartending, and waiting tables. The situation is compounded by the current cost-of-living crisis, with escalating prices for essentials like food, insurance, and utilities hitting low- and middle-income earners hard across all professions. One teacher, identified as Ms. Regal, 54, shared her struggles, noting a recent $70 fuel expense and a $160 grocery bill for just two bags of essentials. She plans to continue working as a waitress during the summer break to supplement her income and cover her classroom expenses, which amount to about $1,500 annually out-of-pocket. The trend has drawn concern from former U.S. Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings, who expressed shock at the number of teachers working outside their field during the academic year. She highlighted the financial pressure teachers face, which she believes contradicts the societal respect they are often afforded. Data from the National Education Association indicates the average teacher salary for the 2024-2025 school year is just over $72,000. However, compared to other professions requiring similar educational qualifications, public school teachers earn approximately 27% less, a record disparity dating back to the 1970s.

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Tôi đang phải thắt lưng buộc bụng ở mọi khoản chi tiêu. Chỉ riêng cuối tuần trước, tôi đã mất tới 70 USD để đổ đầy bình xăng. Tối qua đi siêu thị, chỉ hai túi nhu yếu phẩm mà hóa đơn đã lên tới 160 USD