Best jobs for teens still in high school?

I'm a junior in high school and want to earn some extra cash. What jobs are good for balancing with schoolwork? I'd love a job that offers flexible hours and maybe even some career-building skills.

The good news is that there are quite a few jobs that can offer flexibility for your schedule and also help you build some useful skills. Here are some options you might want to consider:

1. Part-Time Retail Job: Many retail positions allow for flexible scheduling and can give you experience in customer service, cash handling, and problem-solving. Plus, some stores may offer employee discounts, which can be a great perk.

2. Restaurant Industry: You could get a job as a host or server in a local restaurant. It can be fast-paced, but the tips can add up, and it offers great experience in communication and multitasking.

3. Tutoring: If there's a subject you're particularly good at, you could offer tutoring sessions. The hours are usually flexible and it can be a good source of income. Plus, teaching others is a great way to reinforce your understanding, and you're honing your leadership skills along the way.

4. Babysitting/Pet Sitting: Babysitting or pet sitting can often be done in the evenings or on weekends, so it generally won't conflict with your schoolwork. Doing a good job can lead to word-of-mouth referrals, expanding your network, and possibly increasing job opportunities.

5. Research Assistant: If you live near a university or lab, look into research assistant positions in your field of interest. This can be a fantastic way to gain real-world experience and get a glimpse of different careers.

Each job has its own set of experiences and skills that can be gained. For example, working in retail or food service can enhance your communication skills and ability to work under pressure. Tutoring can refine your understanding of a subject. Make sure to prioritize your schoolwork and not overcommit, as maintaining a strong GPA is important for college applications, scholarships, and potentially for graduating with honors.