Money Matters for Educators: A Guide to Budgeting, Debt, and Retirement on a Teacher’s Salary

Money Matters for Educators is a practical, no-nonsense guide designed specifically for teachers and school professionals who want to take control of their financial lives, without giving up everything they enjoy or becoming financial experts overnight. Written by longtime educator Burke Wallace, PhD, MBA, this book speaks directly to the realities of earning a teacher's salary in today's economy. Using relatable classroom analogies, real-world examples, and plain language, Wallace breaks down complex financial topics into manageable, actionable steps. From budgeting and credit scores to housing decisions, retirement planning, and investing, Money Matters for Educators helps you make informed choices that support both your current lifestyle and your long-term goals. This book isn't about quick fixes or unrealistic promises. It's about building financial confidence, avoiding common pitfalls educators face, and creating stability and freedom over time. Whether you're early in your career, mid-career, or approaching retirement, this guide meets you where you are and helps you move forward with clarity and purpose. Inside, you'll learn how to: Create a realistic budget that actually works on a teacher's salary Understand and improve your credit score without obsession or fear Make smart decisions about renting versus buying a home Navigate pensions, retirement accounts, and long-term planning Use debt strategically while avoiding financial stress Build wealth gradually through practical investing principles Align your financial decisions with your values as an educator Money Matters for Educators is the financial guide teachers wish they had when they first entered the profession—clear, honest, and grounded in the real world of education.