Educator Forever

Teachers work tirelessly all year long and prioritize the needs of their students over anything else. So it’s no wonder summer is a time for rest and rejuvenation. But in order to have true summer self care, it’s important to be intentional about how you spend your summer. To help you be intentional, I’m sharing 4 tips on how to rest and have complete summer self care.Each of these 4 tips tap into different parts of yourself, whether that’s emotionally, physically, or mentally. Because teaching can drain your energy and compromise your mental health, it’s important to decompress and reflect on how the year went and what you hope the next year brings. No matter how you want to spend the summer, just make sure you are intentional to achieve summer self care. For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode34Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

When it comes to a new career, sometimes our biggest enemy is ourselves. A lot of self-doubt and uncertainty creeps in our minds when we want to make a move. However, asking for what you want is honestly the best way towards a new career. Although it’s simple, it can sometimes be the hardest thing to do through saying it out loud. Therefore, I’m giving simple advice on how to ask for your next career move. Keeping your dreams close to you is definitely the most comfortable, but it doesn’t help you with action. By asking for your next career move, it helps build accountability, encouragement, connections, awareness of what you’re interested in, and provides new opportunities. All of that gets you in the mode of your next step toward your new career. So I encourage you to stop keeping your dream career a secret and start talking and asking for what you want.For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode33Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

It’s known that the journey we take, experiences we’re a part of, who we meet, and skills we acquire all shape what we do in life. That’s been true for my guest Jasmine Gibson. Her journey to education and working beyond the classroom has been determined by the opportunities she’s created and been a part of. She’s sharing how she went from teaching to having a career in curriculum development. Working in a school with a flexible curriculum model allowed Jasmine to be creative in writing, which resulted in her exploring a career in curriculum development. She credits starting early and working while still in the classroom, networking, and saying yes to everything as to where she is today. As opportunities arise, Jasmine fully believes that those can create skills that can be used for future jobs and careers and shares advice for those wanting a career in curriculum development. For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode32Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

Many people are thinking about working outside of the classroom, but aren’t quite ready to take the leap. Figuring out your next career move can bring out a lot of emotions and uncertainty of overwhelm and if it’s even the right move. To give you some direction, I’m sharing 5 ways to discover alternative jobs for teachers.Unfortunately, figuring out your next career move doesn’t happen instantly and requires some reflection, research and thought. My 5 steps include tuning into what you enjoy, talking to others in the field, acknowledging your hesitations, thinking outside the box, and taking a chance. With each step you take, it leads you to alternative jobs for teachers, which results in your next best career move. For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode31Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

Being happy and safe in your body seems simple, but for most, it’s not. Instead, tools are needed to understand and build a voice towards emotional advocacy and self regulation. One way to do that internal work is through the act of writing. My guest on today’s episode, Mary Kethya Khuon, founder of Write & Release, is sharing how to use writing to improve teacher wellness.Writing is a tool that helps many cope and deal with emotions that are connected to their nervous system, which helps explain how a person reacts to certain circumstances and experiences. With her new program, she hopes to bring it into schools that will eventually give teachers and students a voice for themselves. Mary hopes that through writing, it improves teacher wellness while also teaching students skills while they’re young that will be transformative as they get older and move into adulthood. For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode30Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

I’m all for supporting teachers in finding new careers in education, but I’d like to stop using the phrase 'transitioning teacher'. It implies that being a teacher and the skills and experiences you’ve gained aren’t valuable, when in fact, they are! Although society might view you as “just a teacher”, I’m here to show you how to reframe that mindset.Instead of thinking of yourself as a transitioning teacher, call yourself an education expert who’s looking for a new career, because you are! Start to embrace your expertise as an asset instead of a limitation. By switching that frame of thinking will help you present your experience in a positive light towards connecting it to where you want to go next.It’s perfectly okay to pursue other careers, but the phrase transitioning teacher devalues your knowledge and skills. Spend some time thinking about your expertise and how that determines your next steps. Once you figure out what you want to be known for, share with me on Instagram @educatorforever on how you’re going to let your education expertise shine!For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode29Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

WIth our world expanding through the use of the internet and social media, this can cause some challenges and uncertainty to business owners. However, by looking at it as a way to build community only benefits you and your growing business. To help us learn more about how to use social media towards your advantage is guest Elana Leoni. Elana, who has her own consulting group, has always wanted her career to be a mix of passion and making an impact, while having profitable income. She’s been able to have a curious mind, which has resulted in various job types, but eventually landed working in a social media management role for educational brands and organizations. She describes what her work is like and advice on how to use social media to start your own business. Social media is a form of community and a way to connect and build relationships with a whole world of people. Particularly when working for educational brands, it can help organizations know what their buyers want and need. If interested in how to incorporate social media into your business, this episode and Elana’s knowledge is just for you!For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode28Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

For those educators out there thinking that teaching is your only option, I’m here to tell you it’s not! With your many unique and talented skills, you have the ability to venture out and try out different options until you find the best fit for you. My guest on today’s episode, Evonne Hall, kept trying various jobs until the right one came along. She’s sharing tips and advice on how to go from an online teacher to program coordinator.Evonne explains that as her life got busier and her family grew, it was time to work beyond the classroom with something that better fit her needs. She landed on being an online teacher that allowed more flexibility to her schedule, while still having a direct impact on students. With that online teaching experience, she still hadn't finished growing as an educator and took her skills and experience to being a program coordinator at Educator Forever. Our conversation revolves around getting comfortable with moving around to different jobs or companies that ultimately is the best option for your life, schedule and needs. Evonne shares realistic and practical advice for those transitioning out of the classroom to other roles such as program coordinator. For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode27Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

There are many of us that want to leave the classroom to pursue other careers, but we’re unsure about what’s out there and what we’ll enjoy. As teachers, we possess a variety of skills, which is why it’s helpful to dabble in a lot of different areas to see what you like. That’s exactly what my guest on today’s episode, Mandy Flocchini, did. She’s sharing how her various opportunities led her to curriculum and assessment writing.When Mandy had thoughts of working beyond the classroom, she wanted to gain more experience in curriculum writing. Therefore, she took on a lot of different projects that showcased her skills, all while gaining the experience she needed to land higher quality jobs. She explains how her time as a teacher helped in her career now because she was already writing curriculum as a supplement to the textbook provided by her district. Throughout our conversation, Mandy gives advice for those seeking a career in curriculum and assessment writing, particularly in support groups, such as the Educator Forever community. Take time to dip your toes in a variety of projects that help you find your next career that you’ll love. For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode26Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

When trying to achieve working full time outside of the classroom, there’s always a transition period where your teaching job and side hustles overlap. Knowing how to manage the stress, while keeping the end goal in mind, can be difficult. My guest on today’s episode, Blair Petersen, knows that all too well. She’s talking today about her journey from being an educator to working in writing and marketing.Educator Forever’s Beyond the Classroom course is designed to assist educators to seek careers outside of the educational setting. Blair took the course, changed her career path, and is now Educator Forever’s Marketing Manager. She discusses how the course helped her and what led to her identifying interests and skills based on her passions to help define a new career beyond the classroom.Blair’s mission is to let others know there’s other jobs and careers that fit your lifestyle, needs, passions, and dreams if you’re willing to take the leap. She gives advice and shares that moving beyond the classroom was the best decision she’s ever made, and wants the same thing for you too!Check out my Beyond the Classroom Course here!For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode25Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

You possess so many skills as a teacher that can be used working outside of the classroom. There are companies that find your experience and skills valuable, but it’s just taking the leap, or as my guest would say, pivot. Casey Agena, an education consultant, shares his journey and how working in ed tech can be the right fit for you.Casey and I have a flowing conversation about a variety of topics regarding the school system, utilizing your skill set, and how working in ed tech allows you to help improve the education system and student learning. If you're looking to be in education in a different way, consider working in ed tech. You already have the skills and educational language that will make you an asset and valuable for any company. Casey gives advice and shows you how to pivot your career that keep you moving forward. For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode24Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

It’s normal to feel self-doubt and unsure of yourself as you start a new career or begin something new. Feelings of fear and questioning yourself start to creep up, even though you know your skills and experience make you right for the job. We call this imposter syndrome. It’s important to know how to face it head on, so in today’s episode, I’m covering how to confront imposter syndrome.Although you may not ever overcome imposter syndrome, you should confront it, question it, and work through it. In order to do that, I provide steps to take and things to consider doing that make you start to believe in yourself. I encourage you to take a look at all your skills and experiences that are valuable in moving towards working beyond the classroom.Throughout the episode, I am your hype woman to tell you that you’re so much more than “just a teacher”. You have an expertise that needs to be embraced if wanting to confront imposter syndrome. Remember to not let feelings of self doubt stop you, for action in the best medicine! For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode23Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

In an educational system that constantly asks teachers to give more than they receive, it’s no wonder that so many are experiencing teacher burnout. Teachers are asked to accomplish so much with limited support and resources. But worse of all, they’re conditioned to think all they endure is their fault and to just accept the circumstances they’re given for the benefit of the kids. Unfortunately, all of this leads to teacher burnout and the decision to leave the classroom.When teachers start to feel this way, it affects themselves, their health, their relationships, and so much more. Teachers got into education to help and serve others, but at what cost do they continue to feel inadequate? To help combat these negative thoughts, I share positive mindset shifts to make and ways to move forward from teacher burnout. In order to create change, start by empowering teachers and facilitate an environment that values teacher voice to provoke positive change in education!For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode22Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

Are you a good listener and enjoy supporting other teachers at the same time? Becoming a teacher coach might be a good fit for you! I have guest April Brown, Educator Forever’s Learning and Development Manager, to share how she made the transition from classroom teacher to becoming a successful teacher coach. Through our conversation, April explains that being a teacher coach can be more than just an instructional coach, but simply supporting teachers in a variety of ways. She reinforces that teachers already have coaching skills, but highlights the most important ones and provides advice on how to get started. April and I have an honest conversation about being able to have clients express their voice, true beliefs, and values in order to feel supported. So, if you’re looking for a career change, but still in the education field, consider being a teacher coach that provides resources and support to fellow teachers. For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode21Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

Can I really do it? Can I leave my classroom job to pursue a passion of mine? These are questions we have with ourselves as we think about finding a new career. We have self-doubt and question whether we have the right skills and abilities to start our own business. That’s exactly what my guest on today’s episode, Veronica Reid, thought, until she took the leap and started her own business of being an online teacher. Just like many of you, Veronica wanted to stay connected to education, but not be confined to the four walls of a classroom. That's why she jumped into being an online teacher, who eventually started her own online tutoring business and wrote a book about exploring your new career.Teachers have a passion for serving and supporting others, which Veronica guarantees you can still do with a different career. She shares her advice and reflects on what she’s learned, and is on a mission to share with others who want to work as online tutors, or any other new business venture for others!For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode20Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

Having a growth mindset has become a point of emphasis in classrooms today. As teachers, we teach our students that through practice, hard work, and perseverance, they’re able to learn new skills, talents, and abilities. However, as adults, when it’s time to take the plunge into a new career and work beyond the classroom, that mindset is hard for us to put into action.In order to take action, there are 3 key steps to cultivating a growth mindset, which are to normalize and embrace the struggle, put in the work, and take “just right” risks. Throughout the episode, I focus on these 3 steps and share positive advice and tips on how they can impact your own life.Hard work, learning, and feedback are 3 aspects that show how having a growth mindset can develop your own personal talents. Keeping those in mind, along with the 3 action steps, will give you a positive and growth mindset for working beyond the classroom. For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode19Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

Just like every individual has their own set of skills, someone’s journey to their current career is personal and unique to their own experiences and passions. My guest on today’s episode did just that! Maxwell Roach, tutoring business owner of JonAyves Learning Club, shares how he started his journey from professional drummer to online tutoring business owner. Lots of things contributed to Max’s decision to start and grow his own business, but none as important as when he started having kids. Max gives us an insight into how having proper education for his own children sparked a need to create an online tutoring business of his own. Through that idea, we have a deep discussion over personalized engagement, different learning and teaching styles, and how students can truly learn through anything around them.We know that starting your own business isn’t an easy venture, but it’s worth it when you have the passion and drive behind it. As Max reiterates throughout the episode, with each new experience, you learn new skills that help you grow along the way. As you begin your new business or career, keep that advice in mind and you’ll find success!For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode18Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

What is something you’ve always wanted to do that you’ve never done? That question, right there, can change the trajectory of someone’s life, which it did for my guest on today’s episode, Vicky Weber. Vicky, like most of us, was an educator, but had dreams of doing something bigger. However, it wasn’t until her husband asked her that question that she pursued her dream of writing children’s books.One of the fears of people following their dreams is failure and not feeling like you have the right skills to succeed. Vicky shares her advice for pushing through and an important piece of advice for just starting. She details some setbacks and the adversity she overcame, and we circle it back to how teacher skills are once again, transferable to any profession and starting your own business.Although writing children’s books and being a published author might not be your dream, take a note out of Vicky’s lesson plans and ask yourself, what is something you’ve always wanted to do that you’ve never done? Because really, the only person standing in the way of your dreams is you.Watch Vicky’s FREE Video TrainingFREE Write Your Picture Book WorkbookFor all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode17Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

For some people who leave the classroom to pursue other careers, their business is to serve other educators. But what if you left to help other educators and your community? That’s exactly what my guest, Candace Hunter, has done. Candace has taken action towards improving her community by running for school board in education. Through Candace’s road to running for school board, she learned what the important issues were in her community involving the education system, then most importantly, decided to take action. Her goal was to get back to the roots of bridging the gap between the community and the teachers, all while building relationships that make significant change. Along with running for school board, Candace has started her own business, Teacher Boot Camp. She serves new teachers and instructs them on routines, procedures, strategies, and classroom management. No matter who Candace is helping, she does it with a positive attitude and a giving heart! For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode16Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

Most teachers get into education because it’s a passion of theirs that they want to fulfill. However, when burnout occurs, sometimes that passion can lead to other career paths outside the classroom. That stands true for Rosie Leyva, whose passions led her from classroom teacher to recovery coach. My guest on today’s episode, Rosie shares her journey through education and how her various experiences and passions created a different path towards coaching. As teachers, we often feel like our identity revolves around being a teacher. But when you take a step back, you will find that your identity is so much more than your chosen career. Rosie dives into how her core values aligned with the actions she’s taken to become a recovery coach. While most who embark on a career change, it’s the failures and steps towards your new goal or career that provide the most clarity. Rosie has an encouraging story that will inspire you to examine your passions and values to help determine your next season of life. For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode15Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

Life is a journey and each path you take leads you down a different road, which eventually leads you to right where you’re supposed to be. My guest on today’s episode, Keena Melville, is a prime example of this. The journey she’s taken to starting her own online teaching business, Keen Education, was a winding road. Keena shares her journey and how each experience impacted her business. After transferring to several different schools, Keena finally landed at a school that brought in different specialists to the classroom and lessons. That experience impacted the foundation for her future business: personalized instruction utilizing adapted novels. However, it wasn’t until Covid that she decided to take the leap to start her online teaching business, which although just beginning, is already thriving.Like every business owner, Keena has overcome obstacles and fear, but has seen more positives and a direct impact on her students. Establishing her online teaching business might not be where it is today, if it wasn’t for the different paths she took along her educational journey. For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode14Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

There are many of us that want to leave the classroom, but have a love and passion for education that we want to continue to stay in the field in some capacity. The challenge can be finding a mix between the two. My guest today, Locha Brooks, has done just that. Wanting to take control of her own career, financials, and impact to help other educators, has led her to creating her own education consulting business called 1st Class Educator. Throughout our conversation, Locha shares her journey from a classroom teacher to running her own education consulting business. She has a passion for helping other educators find their niche and using their specific skill set to help other organizations and businesses. Any time someone starts their own business, they learn a lot of valuable lessons and information. Since Locha is all about supporting other educators, she shares the key to starting that process and how your mindset is connected to knowing your worth in business. Listening to her talk about her education consulting business will inspire and motivate you to utilize your own skills towards a new career. For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode13Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

Ever use a product and think, Wow! This is really easy to use! Well, that’s because there was great user research involved in the making of that product. Megan Boddum, a kids user research specialist, is sharing how you can combine your love of working with kids and research skills as a teacher, to work in user research that’s beyond the classroom. Megan Boddum currently works as an independent consultant focusing on helping companies and individuals with various children’s technology, media, education and research initiatives with her designed and developed methodologies.On the podcast, we talk about using your skills and passion to make a career. Megan is a great example of that, and explains her journey in having a career in user research and content strategy. While those are both very broad terms, she gives her definition of each and why both are filled and needed by educators with certain skill sets. Even if you’re leaving the classroom, there’s still a way for you to work with kids in the capacity of user research. Throughout our conversation, Megan highlights the power of user research and ways to get into that career with the help and advice of others.Take a listen and start exploring this new career path beyond the classroom!For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode12Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

There are so many educators that dream of working outside of the classroom, but something stops them from pursuing that goal: self rejection. It tends to not be the fear that others will reject them, but talking themselves out of the action before even getting a chance to try. I get it. It’s hard to put yourself out there and take a leap of faith on a new opportunity, but I’m here to tell you that you can! I’m sharing three steps that will help you recognize when you self reject and learn how to move forward.In order to overcome your fears, you need to take action. My three steps in accomplishing that goal are doing it scared, celebrating the action, and letting others decide whether to move forward or not. I share how to acknowledge your feelings and determine when things are in and outside of your control, all of which will help you not self reject.While it’s difficult, I challenge you to start reflecting on where you self reject and take the proper action and steps to overcome it. If you do, the reward far outweighs your fear of even starting! For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode11Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

On the podcast, I’m constantly talking about your marketable skills, jobs you can do outside of teaching, and guests who have started their own education businesses. However, some of you still might be thinking, but does that apply to me? Can I really do that? I’m here to tell you again, yes! Today’s episode, I have guest Rozane Rosenberg, who just like you, had some reservations about working beyond the classroom, but she went for it and is succeeding! Rozanne Rosenberg worked in the publishing industry for five years and then as an elementary educator for a decade. Feeling burned out and looking to leave the classroom but still stay in the education industry, she then found me and the Educator Forever community. Being part of Educator Forever has been truly life-changing for her. Rozanne now works as an Assistant Director of Communications for an independent school in New York and as a freelancer for various companies.Working in several different careers, Rozanne shares her path to becoming a freelancer who works on a variety of projects from curriculum designer, editor, writer, and content creator. Rozanne was apprehensive about working beyond the classroom, but after taking Educator Forever courses, it gave her the confidence to follow a new career path, which she believes was well worth it! Acknowledging that it can be challenging starting out, Rozanne does promise that the flexibility, variety in projects, and new work environment makes working beyond the classroom the perfect fit for educators wanting a new career. For those still doubting if you should take the leap, we’re here to tell you to do it, for you won’t regret it! For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode10Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

We talk a lot on the podcast about finding ways to pursue your passion in education, but on your own terms, and today’s episode is no different. Dr. Shira Leibowitz is the perfect example of someone who believes that anything is achievable with the right mindset and vision. So, thinking about starting your own school? In today’s episode, Dr. Shira Leibowitz of Discovery Village, discusses designing purpose-driven schools. Before opening Discovery Village Childcare Center and Preschool in July, 2019, Dr. Shira Leibowitz spent twenty years as the principal of early childhood through eighth grade schools. Dr. Leibowitz saw opening a childcare center as an opportunity to design and lead a school reflecting her own vision for relationship rich, experiential, purpose-driven education. The work has been so meaningful that she also opened Revabilities™ Educational Leadership Training Center, supporting early childhood leaders to deliver customized purpose-driven, profitable programs, without burning themselves and their teams out in the process.Dr. Shira Leibowitz, like many of you, had a unique path getting into education, but once she did, she went full-steam ahead! Wanting more than a traditional and structured school system, she eventually started her own school, Discovery Village. Being a purpose-driven school for early childhood, Discovery Village’s primary focus is the well-being of their students for a well-developed life. Believing that anything is achievable, Dr. Leibowitz is sharing her knowledge with others who are wanting to start their own school or programs based on purpose-driven learning. She has a lot of knowledge, advice, and the right mindset to help you achieve your educational visions. So if you’re ready to start your own purpose-driven school or program, listen to Dr. Leibowitz for implementation success! Free access to Stand Out Early Childhood mini-courseFor all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode9Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

For those of you thinking about finding a career outside of education or teaching, this episode is for you! A common fear about leaving the classroom is that you don’t have the right skills or experience to excel in a different career. However, I’m here to tell you that’s absolutely false. Teachers have many valuable skills, so I’m highlighting 10 marketable teacher skills that make you an asset outside of the classroom. As teachers, we do copious amounts of things per day. However, we tend to not think of them as marketable teacher skills. In reality, they’re very valuable in helping to explore further opportunities. Those skills include:MultitaskingEfficiencyProblem solving Detail orientedInterpersonalInnovationAdaptabilityWritten skillsResearch skillsEnthusiasmWhile not all teachers have the same skills, we all develop certain skills along the way. If considering a career outside of the classroom, determine your marketable teacher skills and how they can be utilized for specific roles and other career opportunities. For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode8Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

As teachers, we know that kids are unique individuals and learn differently from one another. And while teachers do an amazing job at teaching students at all different levels, sometimes the school system isn’t working for them. Therefore, attending a microschool can be the perfect fit. To learn more about this, I have guest Iman Alleyne, founder of Kind Academy, who is sharing how to build a microschool network. After Iman’s son wasn’t having the best experience at a traditional preschool, she started looking at different options, and eventually landed on a microschool. Her persistence and passion for teaching and celebrating an individual’s unique abilities, led her to opening up Kind Academy, which has changed the trajectory of her children’s academic successes. Not every child excels in a traditional school, and not every parent wants their children to have a structured day. Instead, a microschool is a place that’s progressive, engaging, and student-centered, who are recognized for their individuality. While academics are present, in a microschool, project-based learning, creativity, and developing conflict resolution or social emotional skills are at the forefront of a student’s individualized curriculum. With so many ways that students can learn, this might be the best option for your child! For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode7Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

Have you ever thought about using your teaching expertise beyond all the wonderful things you do in your classroom? If you have, becoming an education consultant could be in your future! Although this job title might be vague and broad, in today’s episode, I’m sharing more insight and clarification on how to get started as an education consultant. As an education consultant, one of the benefits is getting to work with a variety of people with different expertise than you. In doing so, you’re able to collaborate and create meaningful content that will be used by teachers in the classroom. In order to be a part of that, during the episode, I share 3 steps you need to take if you are interested in being an education consultant. With each step you take, you’re able to start seeing your expertise and experience as valuable, because it is! Being a consultant on products or services, you get to create a positive change in education beyond the classroom setting. For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode6Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

When teachers end up leaving the classroom, it’s usually for a multitude of reasons and personal to each individual. But an overall similarity is that teachers didn’t feel like they were best serving students within the educational school system. That’s exactly how my guest on the podcast felt, which was the catapult to starting her own business, All the Write Colors. In today's episode, I have a very open and honest dialogue with Katharine Hsu, who shares how she went from working in the classroom to helping students with their literacy through online teaching. Katharine Hsu is the founder, teacher, and CEO of All the Write Colors where she believes there are many kids not thriving or excited about reading and writing because we are not teaching into their strengths and interests. In order to combat this idea, Katharine personalizes reading and writing classes that teach to the strengths of each child, while incorporating art and creative writing into lessons. Throughout our conversation, Katharine shared the struggles she felt working in the school system and how that impacted the start of her business and how she views kids’ struggles with literacy. She now prioritizes a students’ strengths and their self-worth to build confidence and develop their literacy skills. Reaching all students with various geographical and academic needs, Katharine has created programs for online teaching and in-person meetings. If you’re ready for your child to be seen as an individual, Katharine’s literacy program will help them grow and develop their unique skill set as an academic learner. For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode5Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

As teachers, you’re constantly creating and designing lesson plans, units, instructional activities, and so much more for your students. But have you ever thought about doing that for a living or a side job and getting paid for it? That can certainly become your reality if you become a curriculum developer like I did. If you’re wanting to take that same path, then you’ll love today’s episode. I’m sharing what you need to know in order to determine if being a curriculum developer is right for you, plus tips for getting started. Before getting started, it’s important to know what curriculum design entails and what skills and experience is needed, so you can have a full understanding before diving in. After listening to the episode, you’ll be surprised to know that you already have the right skills and mindset to embark on this career. Finally, I share in detail the steps you need to get started, which are as easy as 1, 2, 3. If becoming a curriculum developer is something you’re considering, acknowledge the skills you possess and use those to land your dream job! For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode4Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

Have you ever thought about starting your own online teaching business? In today’s virtual world, there are so many opportunities to make this a reality. On the other hand, if the idea of owning a business is one that’s never crossed your mind, you’re certainly not alone. Many teachers find themselves in a position where they have an unexpectant opportunity to turn their passion into a business.Our guest, Allison Williams, is the perfect example of this. Allison began teaching in 2012 and has experience in private, public, and charter schools. When the pandemic hit and schools transitioned into online learning, Allison discovered that she actually really enjoyed virtual teaching and wanted to explore how she could do this long-term.It started with her virtually supporting her niece to help prepare her for kindergarten. Then slowly, Allison added more kids to the learning group. Over time, multiple small tutoring groups were formed, and it just grew from there. Once Allison realized that she had a real business on her hands, she went through my Grow Your Education Business Accelerator program to take it to the next level.Now Tutor Tots Online serves kids in preschool, kindergarten, and first grade. In our conversation, Allison shares all the details about how she got started, how she brings in new clients, using social media for her online teaching business, and so much more. If starting a business is in the back of your mind, I know you’ll be inspired to take action after hearing Allison’s story! For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode3Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

Are you one of the many teachers who work way too many hours? Maybe you’re the teacher who is the first to arrive at school and the last to leave, or the teacher who works on the weekends, leaving little time for rest. Our guest, April Brown, was once a teacher like that too until she discovered the many options of flexible work in education. After going through my course, Beyond the Classroom, April realized that there were really so many ways for her to leverage her teaching skills outside of the classroom, while still driving change within the classroom. Over the years, she’s had the opportunity to work in various positions from curriculum development to being an instructional coach for educators, and many in between.The thing that April loves most about flexible work in education is that her work can ebb and flow depending on the season of life that she’s in. Inside this episode, you’ll get to hear April share her experiences with the roles that she’s had, and how you too can be an advocate for students and teachers, whether you’re inside or outside of the classroom.https://www.educatorforever.com/episode2Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

Welcome to the very first episode of Educator Forever! To kick things off, I want to share my story of why I left the classroom after discovering all of the new and exciting career pathways for teachers. My story begins in a way that’s probably very familiar to you. I had been teaching for several years and I was burnt out. The realization hit me that my salary wasn’t increasing, and yet I didn’t have the time or energy to get another job. I didn’t want to become an administrator, so what other options were there? Well, it turns out that there were (and still are) many. I learned that there were actually countless other career pathways for teachers that allowed me to use my existing skills and still make an impact on the world of education. Better yet, I felt empowered and invigorated in these roles. My skills were valued, and I gained time and financial freedom that I had never experienced before.These new career pathways are available to you as well. There is a huge need for your skills. Did you know that there are people creating education products who literally have zero classroom experience? They need you! Inside this episode you’ll hear some of the many ways that you too can work flexibly in education to expand your impact and your income.Head to the show notes for all links and resources mentioned in this episode: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode1Watch our free on-demand workshop to learn more about flexible work opportunities beyond the classroom: https://www.educatorforever.com/workshopTake our free quiz to discover your next career step: https://www.educatorforever.com/quizFollow us on Instagram @educatorforever.

Welcome to Educator Forever, where we empower teachers to innovate education!Are you a teacher who loves working in the field of education, but is burnt out and craving a more flexible work schedule, more income, and more opportunities? Several years ago I felt the same way, until I learned about the many career pathways available to me beyond the classroom. Now I'm here to teach you about these opportunities! This podcast will give you the tools you need to capitalize on your valuable skills and start your new profitable path outside the classroom. Tune in each week to hear real stories of teachers expanding their impact beyond the classroom and explore ways to reimagine teaching and learning. You’ll also hear from inspiring leaders in education so that you can be up to date on the latest research and innovative approaches to teaching and learning.If you’re ready to nail down your next step as an educator, I have just the thing for you. You can watch our on-demand workshop to get introduced to the many options you have for flexible, rewarding work beyond the classroom and make a plan for landing these jobs. Sign up for that free workshop now at www.educatorforever.com/workshop