Teachers — What's The Most Expensive Part Of Your Job That More People Should Be Aware Of?

Everyone knows teachers deserve a lot more credit (and money!) for the important work they do. From the hours of grading tests to planning those super cool field trips we loved as kids, teaching is so much more than what goes down once the bell rings.

Ryan Gosling in Half Nelson
THINKFilm / Courtesy Alamy

And while it's known that educators are notoriously underpaid, it makes me wonder about all the extra costs that come with the gig.

Laurence Fishburne in Akeelah and the Bee
Lionsgate / Courtesy Alamy

If you're a current or former teacher, I want to hear from you! What are the out-of-pocket costs you always cover just so you can do your job?

Hilary Swank and a classroom of students in Freedom Writers
Paramount Pictures / Courtesy Alamy

Maybe you always buy a bunch of school supplies just in case any of your students forgets something?

A woman shopping for school supplies
Philippe Lissac / Getty Images

Perhaps you invested money in a variety of books to have in class that even the library would be envious of?

A bunch of books viewed from the side
Maryna Terletska / Getty Images

Or, maybe it's as simple as decorating your classroom walls so incoming pupils feel welcomed on their first day?

A decorated classroom
Ferrantraite / Getty Images

So, now's your chance to shed light on what it's really like working behind the scenes as a teacher. Share the most surprising expenses that come with your job in the comments or submit anonymously using this Google form. Your response might be featured in an upcoming BuzzFeed Community post!