Teacher Talk Tuesday

Happy Tuesday Y’all,

If there’s one thing we all know too well, it’s that teaching is a calling, but unfortunately, that calling doesn’t always come with a big paycheck. I get it. Some days, it can feel overwhelming knowing the amount of time, heart, and effort we put into our classrooms and our students, only to feel stretched thin financially. But here’s the good news—teachers have more options than ever to earn extra income while still making a difference.

As alwyas, if you find this info helpful, please share it with your teacher bestie!

Today, I want to share some creative, practical, and maybe even fun ways you can earn extra money. Some I have experience with, and some I’ve got teacher friends who have shared their successes stories with me. These aren’t just gigs; they’re opportunities that let you use your skills, knowledge, and creativity to bring in a little more. Let's dive in!

1. Selling Digital Resources

You’re already spending hours creating lesson plans, worksheets, and activities. Why not make some extra income by sharing these resources with other teachers? Platforms like Teachers Pay Teachers (TpT) and Etsy are fantastic places to start.

I know teachers who are making serious side income by uploading their classroom resources—think digital escape rooms, holiday-themed worksheets, project-based learning kits, and interactive notebooks. If you have a knack for creating effective, engaging materials, consider putting them up for sale. You’d be surprised at how many teachers will pay for well-crafted resources, especially if they’re tried and tested.

Courtney and sell custom bulletin board letters and numbers sets and I sell my student digital art lessons on TpT. It helps bring in extra income, AND…it keeps our creative muscle in shape!

Pro Tip: Start with what you already have. Upload a few resources, see what resonates, and go from there. It doesn’t have to be fancy—just helpful.

2. Tutoring

This is one of the most natural ways for teachers to earn extra income because you’re already in the business of helping students learn. Tutoring can be done in person or online, and there’s demand for all kinds of subjects. You could even specialize, whether it’s helping students prep for standardized tests, teaching study skills, or focusing on a particular age group.

With platforms like Wyzant, Tutor.com, and Varsity Tutors, you can find students without even leaving your home. Or, if you prefer in-person tutoring, consider reaching out to parents in your school community. Many parents are more than willing to invest in a tutor they know and trust.

3. Freelance Writing or Blogging

You’d be amazed at how many educational companies, websites, and blogs are looking for people with real teaching experience to create content. If you have a passion for writing, this could be a great side gig. You could write articles, blog posts, curriculum guides, or even contribute to educational publications.

Websites like Upwork and Freelancer are good places to find freelance gigs, but you can also approach educational blogs or companies directly. Your firsthand experience in the classroom gives you credibility, and companies love hiring teachers because you know what works in education.

4. Create an Online Course

If you have a unique skill or expertise—whether it’s classroom management, using technology in the classroom, or teaching reading strategies—why not turn it into an online course? Platforms like Udemy and Teachable allow you to create courses on virtually any topic. Teachers are great at breaking down complex concepts, which makes online course creation a natural fit.

And here’s the best part: once you create the course, it can become passive income. You could wake up to sales notifications in your inbox. Sure, it takes some work upfront, but it can pay off big time in the long run.

As stated earlier, I sell my digital art lessons online. I offer individaul lesson on TpT, and I have a complete course that teaches students (and their families) how to create fun and amazing digital art AND then I show them how to open and operate an online Print on Deamand business. I’ve been teaching these lessons to my students of over 8 years, and I’ve got international business men and women who are making awesome side income. Which helps when they graduate and enter college…or the workforce.

Pro Tip: Don’t overthink it. Start small with something you’re already knowledgeable about, and remember, you’re not aiming for perfection—you’re aiming to provide value.

5. Sell Customized Products

This one is a lot of fun! If you have an artistic side, consider creating and selling custom products like t-shirts, mugs, or stickers that are geared toward teachers or students. Websites like Amazon, Redbubble, and Etsy make it easy to upload your designs and let customers purchase them on a variety of products.

Think about your favorite sayings, funny classroom moments, or inside jokes only teachers get. With platforms like these, you don’t need to handle inventory or shipping—they take care of all that. It’s just another creative way to turn your skills and sense of humor into extra cash.

Courtney and I have been designing and selling shirts, phone cases, hoodies, clocks, socks, facemasks, and SOOOOOO much more, for around 10 years now. It’s a great side hustle.

Pro Tip: You don’t need to be a graphic designer. There are free tools like Google Drawings, Adobe Illustrator/Photoshop, and Canva that make creating designs simple, even if you’re a beginner. Heck…you can even make awesome designs in PowerPoint. Trust me…I know…I’ve done it!

6. Test Scoring or Online Grading

Believe it or not, there are companies that pay teachers to grade standardized tests and other assignments. Educational Testing Service (ETS) and Pearson are two major companies that hire teachers as scorers. These jobs are often seasonal, so you can work during your breaks or whenever it fits your schedule.

If you’re detail-oriented and don’t mind reading and grading responses, this could be a great way to earn extra income while putting your expertise to good use.

7. Teach English Online

There’s a huge demand for English teachers worldwide, and with companies like VIPKid, Qkids, and Cambly, you can teach students in other countries from the comfort of your own home. The hours are often flexible, and because many students are in different time zones, you can teach in the early morning or late evening.

It’s also incredibly rewarding. Many teachers enjoy building connections with their students, and the lessons are often fun and engaging. If you’re looking to add some income and enjoy working with students one-on-one, this is a solid option.

8. Host Workshops or Webinars for Teachers

You know what it’s like to be a teacher, so who better to provide training and workshops than you? If you’re passionate about classroom management, technology, or creating effective lesson plans, consider hosting paid workshops or webinars. You can run them through platforms like Zoom, or partner with schools or teacher organizations.

Teachers are always looking to learn from each other, so your experience could be invaluable to others. Plus, it’s a great way to share your knowledge while getting paid for it.

9. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking

Okay, this one isn’t exactly teaching-related, but sometimes the best way to earn extra income is to do something completely different. Pet sitting and dog walking are flexible, enjoyable, and a great way to bring in some extra cash.

Apps like Rover and Wag make it easy to connect with pet owners who need a hand. It’s a refreshing way to take a break from the classroom while still earning on the side. And hey, spending time with animals is pretty therapeutic!

10. Start a Side Hustle You Love

At the end of the day, the best side hustle is one that excites you. Whether that’s selling baked goods, starting a YouTube channel, painting, or even making crafts, your side hustle should be something that brings joy and fulfillment. Teaching is hard work, and a side hustle can be a great way to reconnect with your passions while adding to your income.

Remember, there’s no shame in needing or wanting extra income. In fact, it shows your drive and resourcefulness. You’re not just making ends meet; you’re taking control of your finances and finding ways to thrive. So, if you’ve been feeling discouraged by the paycheck, know that you’ve got options. You’ve got talent, creativity, and determination—and that’s a recipe for success.

Until next time…Have A Terrific Tuesday,
~ Mitch