economy

In a tough economy, many U.S. teachers are forced to work second jobs

Plainfield, New Jersey — From the time she was a child, Christine Regal of Plainfield, New Jersey, knew she wanted to be a teacher.

In a tough economy, many U.S. teachers are forced to work second jobs

TL;DR

  • Christine Regal, a teacher for 26 years, works multiple jobs to cover her expenses.
  • A report shows 71% of K-12 public school teachers have at least one second job.
  • Rising inflation, with a 4.2% annual rate in May, is increasing financial pressure on teachers.
  • Teachers like Regal spend their own money on classroom supplies, with Regal budgeting up to $1,500 per year.
  • Regal plans to continue waitressing during the summer and hopes for improved financial conditions by her planned retirement at age 60.