Teachers working multiple jobs?

[CatsDomino]

I think the consensus with civil service is you earn less in return for the benefits and pension after 27 years Of service.  I have a few teachers in my family, and neighbors who are. I live in one of the poorest areas in the country. I do not know of any teachers making $25k per year. I’m not saying they’re making bank , but if I could do it again, I’d probably go that route.

Those benefits and pension are gone in many areas of the country. Ours teachers stopped receiving pensions years ago and now are stuck with 401k's like everyone else. They don't have free health insurance or health insurance for life anymore either. 

Where I live, teacher's with experience, a master's degree in their specific field of education, and both state required certifications have starting salaries around $48K. There's an inner city school that has more problems than I can count who starts at $54K. Another inner city school started the year off needing to hire 400 more teachers because so many left over the summer. I live in one of the most expensive states in the nation so $54K doesn't go very far at all. Teaching is the cushy job so many people think it is. Far from it.

The teachers in my very low cost of living area lost pension benefits years ago as well as state healthcare coverage in retirement.  They invest in a 401k and their state healthcare definitely isn't the greatest and costs quite a bit.  Locally, new teachers with a BS start at $28,500 before a county differential that only adds $5k - so $33,500.  Those with a master's degree and years of experience only make around $40k.  Funny thing is you can go to work as a secretary for our local social services department with nothing beyond a high school diploma, make $35k a year, and have the same state benefits.  My sister has taught elementary school for seven years now and makes just over $35k.  She works as a waitress in the summer months while trying to keep up with her required continuing education.  It's ridiculous.