Characteristics and Working Conditions of Moonlighting Teachers: Evidence From the 2012–2013 Schools and Staffing Survey

• In Event: 26.079 - Roundtable Session 7
  In Roundtable Session: 26.079-13 - Lives of Teachers: Some Provocative Issues

Abstract

Moonlighting, an employment practice where teachers obtain paid work outside of their full-time teaching and outside the school system, has been a regular and persistent factor in the lives of public school teachers. Yet, despite the constant nature of moonlighting in the teaching profession, surprisingly little research has investigated the similarities and differences among public school teachers who moonlight. In this study, the authors used data from the NCES Schools and Staffing Survey to analyze the characteristics and workplace conditions of moonlighting teachers. Findings indicate that males, teachers making less school-related money, and teachers more susceptible to burnout were likely to moonlight outside of education fields. Findings have implications for teacher professionalism.

Authors

• Paul G. Fitchett, University of North Carolina - Charlotte

• Tina Lane Heafner, University of North Carolina - Charlotte

• Susan Harden, University of North Carolina - Charlotte