In recent years, Teachers Pay Teachers (TPT) has become more than just a resource-sharing platform—it’s a thriving online marketplace where U.S. educators transform their hard work into a stream of income. Originally launched to help teachers share lesson plans, it has now grown into one of the most popular platforms in the education sector, with millions of resources downloaded every month.

What Is Teachers Pay Teachers?

Teachers Pay Teachers is an online marketplace where educators can buy and sell classroom materials such as lesson plans, worksheets, digital activities, assessments, and even professional development resources. It operates much like Etsy or eBay but focuses exclusively on teaching and learning tools.

For teachers, this is a game-changer. Instead of creating resources that only benefit their own students, they can share their expertise with others across the country—and earn income while doing it.

Why TPT Matters in the United States

In the U.S., teachers often face challenges with limited classroom budgets and the need for customized, engaging teaching materials. TPT bridges that gap by:

• Providing affordable resources: Schools don’t always supply everything teachers need. TPT offers cost-effective solutions tailored for specific grade levels and learning needs.
• Empowering educators financially: Many teachers use TPT as a side hustle to supplement their income. Some top sellers even generate six-figure annual revenues.
• Encouraging innovation in education: Instead of relying on outdated textbooks, teachers can purchase modern, creative, and engaging materials created by peers who understand today’s students.

How Teachers Earn on TPT

Selling on Teachers Pay Teachers can be as simple as uploading a worksheet or as complex as offering full unit plans. Educators earn money each time someone purchases their resource. Popular categories include:

• Interactive digital lessons for remote learning
• Printable classroom management tools
• STEM and coding activities
• Assessment tools aligned with state standards

Sellers keep a portion of the revenue, with higher earnings for those who invest in premium seller accounts. Some teachers treat it as a side income, while others have turned it into a full-fledged career.

The Growing Popularity of TPT in 2025

The rise of digital classrooms and hybrid learning in the U.S. has fueled TPT’s growth. Many schools now rely on supplemental resources from the platform to keep students engaged. Additionally, as teachers explore AI-powered tools for lesson planning, TPT continues to adapt by supporting digital formats and interactive content.

Challenges and Criticisms

While TPT offers opportunities, it’s not without concerns. Critics argue that it can widen inequities if only some teachers can afford premium resources. Others question copyright issues when teachers sell materials inspired by published curricula. Still, the platform remains a vital tool for educators nationwide.