Teachers play an indispensable role in shaping future generations, yet their compensation often pales in comparison to other professions. With the average salary for high school teachers at $65,220, many educators seek supplementary income through side hustles. A recent survey by Bankrate indicates that individuals engaging in side gigs earn an average of $891 monthly. Here, we explore three promising side hustles for teachers, one of which can pay as much as $100 per hour.
1. Tutoring: Leveraging Expertise for Extra Income
Tutoring is a natural extension of a teacher's skill set, allowing them to earn additional income by sharing their expertise. Platforms like Wyzant, Lessonface, and TutorOcean provide avenues for teachers to offer personalized tutoring sessions in various subjects, from math and science to arts and languages.
Wyzant: This platform facilitates both online and in-person tutoring, enabling teachers to set their own rates, which typically range from $25 to $100 per hour. However, Wyzant retains a 25% commission from the tutor's earnings. For instance, a math tutor might charge $50 per hour, while a Spanish tutor could command $75 per hour.
Lessonface: Specializing in arts and language instruction, Lessonface allows tutors to conduct one-on-one or group sessions. Tutors set their own prices, and the platform charges a 15% fee for students who find tutors through the site, and a 5% fee for those personally attracted by the tutors. For example, a Mandarin tutor may charge $60 per hour, while a knitting instructor might ask for $50.
TutorOcean: This platform supports both online and in-person tutoring across a broad spectrum of subjects. Tutors can set their own rates, with a commission of either 10% or 20% based on how students discover their courses. A physics tutor might charge $40 per hour, while a neuroscience educator could earn $65 per hour.
2. Selling Educational Materials: Passive Income Opportunities
For teachers interested in generating passive income, selling educational materials online is a viable option. Platforms like Etsy and Teachers Pay Teachers allow educators to upload and sell lesson plans and other educational resources they have developed for their classrooms.
Etsy: Teachers can create and sell educational materials, such as lesson plans and classroom activities. For example, a comprehensive kindergarten lesson plan for the entire academic year might be priced at $3.50. Etsy charges a 20-cent listing fee per item and a 6.5% transaction fee based on the sale price.
Teachers Pay Teachers: This platform allows teachers to upload and sell lesson plans and other educational resources. A one-time membership fee of $29 or an annual premium membership fee of $60 is required. For instance, a first-day-of-school activity for an 8th-grade U.S. history class might be available for $4.
3. Dog Walking: Enjoyable and Flexible Earnings
Dog walking offers a flexible and enjoyable way for teachers to earn extra money, especially during the summer months when they have more free time. Apps like Rover connect dog walkers with pet owners, allowing teachers to set their own schedules and rates.
Rover: This platform connects dog walkers with pet owners in need of walking services. According to Care.com, dog walkers can earn between $15 and $24 per hour, making it a lucrative option for teachers looking to supplement their income during their free time.
Teachers seeking to enhance their income have several side hustle options that align with their skills and interests. Whether it's tutoring, selling educational materials, or dog walking, these side gigs offer flexibility and the potential for substantial earnings. By leveraging their expertise and exploring these opportunities, teachers can achieve financial stability and pursue their passions outside the classroom.
