Study: Many teachers have to hold down second job

LANSING — Many teachers in Michigan need to work additional jobs to make ends meet.

The rising cost of health care is one major reason why teachers seek additional employment.

Repaying student loans is an additional reason, said Doug Pratt, the director of communications and public engagement at the Michigan Education Association.

“Getting a master’s degree is another expense that a lot of educators have to deal with on their own to maintain their certification,” Pratt said.

The MEA is the state’s largest union of teachers and other school support staff, like bus drivers and cafeteria workers.

About 40% of the union’s members say they need to take on a second job. Teachers and support staff seek out second jobs at similar rates, he said.

Younger teachers are more likely than older on