Extra Ways Teachers Can Earn More Over Summer Break
Most teachers take on some type of work during the summer to make ends meet and supplement their salaries. Even accounting for time off, the average teacher’s salary is still lower than most other professions with similar education requirements. The good news is there are plenty of ways to earn extra income over summer vacation, including many options that use your skills and training as an educator. Here are some of the best ways you can supplement your income over summer break.
Selling Lesson Plans
There are plenty of resources that allow you to write and sell your own lesson plans such as Teacher Lingo. Some teachers even create their own Etsy shops for lesson plans. This can be a lucrative side job with some teachers earning tens of thousands over the summer and a few even topping $1 million. If you plan to go this route, make sure you check with your school district or use a pseudonym; some contracts have wording that bars selling lesson plans.
Tutoring
Tutoring is a common go-to summer job for teachers. After all, who is better equipped to help students with assignments over the summer than a teacher? Tutoring may involve helping kids who need extra help between terms, are taking additional courses, or are studying for college entrance exams. While it may seem like the same-old, tutoring can be a great change of pace and an opportunity to work with students one-on-one.
Teaching Summer School
If your school has summer classes, signing up to teach a course or two can help you earn steady income over the summer. If your school doesn’t offer summer classes, you still have options. You may already be qualified to teach somewhere else, including schools that teach English as a second language or a community center’s GED courses.
Museum Researcher or Educator
If you want to stay stimulated, learn something new, and have fun over the summer while supplementing your income, taking on a project as a museum researcher or an educator can be a great choice. As a teacher, you may already have the qualifications to assist with an archeological dig, teach lectures, or even teach a photography camp or learning event at the museum. Other summer jobs available at the museum may include educator or tour guide. The best way to find these jobs is looking for openings at childrens, interactive, and innovative museums.
Babysitting and Petsitting
If you want a break from teaching, you may find lucrative work as a babysitter, petsitter, or a housesitter. Teachers can typically charge more than other babysitters as many parents prefer someone with a background in education to babysit so their children can continue to learn and excel outside the classroom. For families that go on extended summer breaks, you can get work taking care of their pets or home.
Swimming Instructor
Why not switch it up and teach something different for a change? Stay cool over the summer and earn decent pay as a swimming instructor. Many physical education, special education, and elementary teachers work as swimming teachers during the summer as they already have the patience and skill set to work with kids and help them learn. Many swim schools even offer paid in-house training, although you will earn the most with previous instructor experience.
Direct Selling
If you have great people skills and are willing to commit time and effort toward marketing and making connections, direct selling products you already use and love may be a good way to earn money over the summer. There’s a direct sales program for everything these days from weight loss products and anti-aging skincare to makeup, jewelry, and baked goods. As a bonus, you can earn products you already buy for free.
Seasonal Work
If you live in an area with a strong tourist population and summer attractions, you’ll likely find strong demand for seasonal work. This may include work at an amusement park, the beach, or the hospitality field. Seasonal jobs are a great choice because these businesses are always in need of workers and won’t be upset when you need to return to your full-time job in August.
