Ever wonder what teachers do after the last bell of the year rings? School News Network reports tracked some down to find out.
When do you see a public school teacher driving a Porsche? Most likely, when it’s somebody else’s Porsche. Lowell High School English teacher Jamie Christians has a couple summer gigs.
First, he’s an usher at Fifth Third Ballpark. His experience as an educator made him a perfect fit with kids and families. He can be spotted keeping relief pitchers safe from enthusiastic autograph or monitoring the tickets of those who invest in the high-rent box seats. He said it’s nice to earn some extra money, and to get to work at such a community staple. And you can’t beat the steady aroma of grilled meat and onions for ambience.
His other summer job is driving privately owned vehicles to and from Michigan for a vehicle transport service. Christians admits he loves road trips. The schedule is flexible, every day is different, and he gets to experience a side of life driving luxury cars that he probably wouldn't get to otherwise. And let’s face it, the money comes in handy.
The married father of two is paying off a pair of graduate degrees, and teacher pay has remained largely stagnant for a decade. Working two extra jobs gives his family a little bit extra every month to help pay for their own cars, college and vacations.
You can find out what other teachers do during their time off in our seriec Summertime Journal on schoolnewsnetwork-dot-org.
Joy Walczak reporting.