Teaching is a job that requires hard work, dedication, and patience. For that reason, teacher moms are heroes. But the reality is, many teachers are in need of change.
I don’t blame you. I worked as a teacher for 10 years before deciding to explore new career options.
Let’s explore some options together.
Jobs for Former Teachers
Instructional Designer
Creates training materials, courses, and learning experiences for companies or schools.
Why teachers fit: You already design lessons, structure content, and understand how people learn.
Curriculum Specialist
Develops and improves educational programs and materials.
Why teachers fit: You have hands-on experience with curriculum, standards, and what actually works in the classroom.
Training Specialist
Trains employees on processes, tools, or skills within a company.
Why teachers fit: Teaching is training, you already know how to explain concepts and guide learning.
LMS Administrator (Learning Management System)
Manages online learning platforms, uploads content, and tracks user progress.
Why teachers fit: You’ve likely used digital platforms and tracked student performance.
Writing/Publishing (Content Writer, Education Writer)
Creates educational content, blogs, or learning materials.
Why teachers fit: You already write lessons, instructions, and engaging content daily.
Editor
Reviews and improves written content for clarity, accuracy, and quality.
Why teachers fit: You’re used to proofreading, correcting, and giving feedback.
Project Manager
Plans, organizes, and oversees projects from start to finish.
Why teachers fit: Managing a classroom is like managing multiple projects at once with deadlines and goals.
Program Coordinator
Organizes and manages programs, schedules, and communications.
Why teachers fit: You juggle schedules, coordinate activities, and keep things running smoothly.
Learning Specialist
Supports individuals or teams in improving learning and performance.
Why teachers fit: You already adapt teaching methods to meet different learning needs.
Onboarding Specialist
Helps new employees learn their roles and adjust to a company.
Why teachers fit: You’re skilled at guiding people step-by-step and making information easy to understand.
Trainer
Delivers training sessions and workshops.
Why teachers fit: This is a direct extension of teaching—just with a different audience.
Client Education Specialist
Teaches clients how to use a company’s products or services.
Why teachers fit: You know how to break down information and support different learning styles.
Training and Education Consultant
Advises organizations on training strategies and learning programs.
Why teachers fit: Your classroom experience gives you real insight into effective teaching and learning.
Where to Start
Many teachers know they want to leave the school system, but they feel stuck. They often ask themselves questions like:
- What else can I do besides teaching?
- Can I actually use my skills in a different job?
- Will other employers recognize my value?
- Can I really succeed in a new career?
If you are asking yourself these questions, do not worry. This is normal.
Qualifications for Roles
Even if it doesn’t feel like it, the skills you’ve built as a teacher are valuable in many other careers.
Some transferable skills are:
- Communication (written and verbal)
- Organization and time management
- Leadership and team coordination
- Problem-solving and critical thinking
- Multitasking and prioritization
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Conflict resolution
- Public speaking and presentation skills
- Training and mentoring others
- Data tracking and progress monitoring
- Lesson planning (project planning)
- Creativity and resourcefulness
- Emotional intelligence and empathy
- Classroom management (people management)
- Attention to detail
- Technology skills (learning platforms, tools, etc.)
- Decision-making under pressure
- Collaboration with teams and stakeholders
- Goal setting and progress evaluation
When looking at job postings, pay attention to the skills required. I can assure you that many of those skills are ones you already have, you just may not recognize them because they were used in a different environment and with a different group of people. Don’t sell yourself short. You are more than capable.
Will you have every skill needed? Absolutely not and that’s especially true when transitioning into a new career field. But that’s okay. You only need the basic foundation to get started. Many skills are learned on the job, and you will receive training.
Prepare for Success
If you see a position that requires knowledge of a specific software tool, download a free trial if available.
Get familiar with the tool so you can speak about it confidently. This shows that even though you haven’t used it in a job setting, you took the initiative to learn it on your own, something employers value.
Resume Updating
When updating your resume, be honest. I’ve heard people advise teachers to change their job titles to match the roles employers are looking for. I do not recommend this.
Leave your actual job titles as they are.
There is no point in writing that you were an instructional designer if your job title was English Teacher. Employers may ask about it, and if a background check is required (which many companies do), inconsistencies can come up.
What matters most is showcasing your skills. Employers want to know if you are capable of completing the tasks. Focus on adding the skills that are relevant and valuable for the position.
Use this opportunity to also include any certifications related to the role. And don’t forget to add a cover letter expressing your enthusiasm for the position, while highlighting your most relevant qualifications and skills.
Reality to Consider
I will be honest, transitioning into a new career field takes time and lots of work.
There is a lot of competition out there, and coming from a different field may require extra effort. Some teachers have applied for unpaid internships or accepted entry-level positions with a pay cut just to get their foot in the door.
If you are able to afford a pay cut and are excited about a new opportunity, go for it. That does not mean all teachers will need to take that route. I have read about many teachers doubling their salary after transitioning into a new role. It really depends on your years of experience and how well you showcase your skills.
When I decided to transition into instructional design, one thing that really helped me was creating a portfolio to showcase my skills. After researching the field you are interested in, you will know whether a portfolio is required or highly recommended.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking to transition outside of the classroom, I commend you for taking this brave new step.
There are many jobs for former teachers. You just need to research, plan, and take action. Do not get discouraged; it will take time, but it will be worth it.
Best wishes,
Mel
