If you're a teacher that's been laid off due to budget cuts, take heart. Now is a great time to start your tutoring business. All across the country school districts are reducing budgets drastically and laying off teachers, but this doesn't have to be the end of your teaching career. With a lack of teachers, inevitably schools will cut corners and students will be short changed. That's a great opportunity for you, as a teacher, to use your skills and start a business.

With a troubled economy, parents see education as even more important for their children's future. Schools may cut back on services, but parents still want their children to be successful academically and eventually go on to college.

 

If you worked for the local school system, you have an edge because you're an insider. You've seen previous versions of the standardized tests and can make lesson plans based on that. If parents know you from the local public school, you have instant credibility.

 

When I started my own tutoring business, I began by putting flyers in my local library. Ask the librarian first though, or your flyer may be removed. Mine was just a simple sheet of paper with a graphic offering my services and tear offs of my phone number.

 

My biggest source of business comes from simply working in the public library. Parents overhear me putting the kids through their paces and ask about my services. Remember to keep a business card with you. I've gotten most of my business this way, but you could even have your services put in the church bulletin.

 

One of my biggest surprises was that several of my students came from a local private school. Yes, private schools have their weaknesses as well. This particular school has a great reputation and produces some great readers; however they don't stress math at all.

 

The first time I met with a student from this school, I had to go looking for her. She was in the children's literature section deeply engrossed in a book. Her mother says she tested several grades ahead in reading and several grades behind in math. When I tested her, I definitely found this to be true.

 

Once you start tutoring, you'll be surprised to find where your students come from. A student I taught in grade school came to me for tutoring services. She had been one of my brightest math students, but her mom had premature twins that took all her attention for several years. In the meantime, my student's math skills had slipped considerably.

 

There's no reason you can't use your education and talent even in this economy so consider freelancing. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there. If you make a small effort, you'll be surprised how many calls you'll get. No parent wants to see their kid have to repeat a grade.

 

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