Teacher Gets Fired From Job for Having a Part-Time Job at Convenience Store
A teacher in Okayama, Japan, reportedly lost his job after being caught working part-time at a convenience store.
A 60-year-old teacher in Japan was dismissed from his job for taking a part-time job at a convenience store, which is strictly prohibited under many employment contracts in the country, especially for public school teachers.
According to reports, the Okayama City Board of Education received information about the teacher’s sideline job. His school principal personally went to the store one Saturday, a rest day for the teacher, and confirmed that he was indeed working there.
In Japan, it is common for employment contracts to ban secondary jobs. The rule is meant to ensure that employees give their full attention and energy to their main work. This policy is particularly strict for educators, who are expected to maintain the trust and respect of the public.
The teacher admitted that he had been working at the convenience store since November 2023 to supplement his income. This happened after he was “rehired” by his school following his retirement.
Under Japan’s rehiring system, retirees can be employed again for the same position but at a reduced salary, prompting some to look for extra income.
He apologized for what he described as an unethical act that damaged public trust in teachers. The Okayama City Board of Education also expressed regret to the students affected by the incident.
The incident sparked online discussion, with many people questioning the strict no-side-job policy. Some argued that if the work is respectable and done outside regular hours, it should not be a problem.
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Others, however, defended the rule, saying it protects the integrity and focus required in public service roles.
The issue emphasizes the ongoing debate in Japan about work restrictions, income challenges for retirees, and the balance between professional obligations and personal needs.
The social media users expressed their reactions to the incident:
