Do you have a special skill or interest? Why not earn some money sharing what you know? Community schools offer classes on subjects as diverse as literacy and foreign languages to knitting, cooking, baking, money management, retirement planning, creative writing, and dog obedience training. Popular classes include explanations of modern technologies such as computer training, digital photography, and auto repair and maintenance. Informal groups also explore hobbies such as sports memorabilia, stamp and coin collecting, and directed reading groups.
A job as an instructor at community school is kind of educational service. It works to teach a specialty course at a community school. Besides that, the instructor also facilitates a regular gathering of like-minded hobbyists.
You need knowledge and skills in a specialized area and you need the ability to teach. You also need the ability to establish and maintain a professional atmosphere for learning. The good news is that in most cases the students who sign up for a community school course are doing so because of a strong interest in the subject or the need to master a skill; they are likely to be highly motivated to succeed.
Many area educational institutions seek to extend themselves to all residents, including taxpaying adults who otherwise have no connection to the school district. Most of the classes are taught at night or on weekends. Once you are established, you may be able to use your experience and skills as an instructor to provide personal tutelage to students outside of the community school. The class may also help you gauge whether there is sufficient interest in a subject or service to allow you to start your own business.