In a tough economy, many U.S. teachers are forced to work second jobs
CBS News • • nation
Key Points:
- Christine Regal, a 54-year-old teacher from Plainfield, New Jersey, has been teaching for 26 years but still needs multiple side jobs, including tutoring and waitressing, to make ends meet.
- A recent report found that 21% of K-12 public school teachers face financial struggles, and 71% work at least one second job, highlighting widespread economic challenges among educators.
- Inflation, with a Consumer Price Index increase of 4.2% in May, has exacerbated Regal's financial difficulties, impacting everyday expenses like gas and groceries.
- Regal spends up to $1,500 annually from her own funds on classroom supplies, sharing the burden with a co-teacher who is also financially strained.
- Planning to retire at 60, Regal intends to continue working multiple jobs and saving money in hopes of improved financial stability by then.