Pencils Down

The K-12 education sector is isolated from the wider economy, causing teachers and school administrators to feel stuck in jobs they no longer want and without clear pathways to pivot to new careers. By examining the career journeys of 20 former educators, we learn the reasons so many educators are seeking to leave the profession, from the constant crises to factors causing burnout and work-life imbalance, illustrating how schools and districts are failing to monitor and improve their employee experience and wellbeing.

We examine educators' skills and how they align with various professions, offer advice for changing careers, and explain why human resource and hiring managers should consider recruiting teachers and school administrators. Why teachers and principals are quitting
What careers educators can pivot into
How to start a new career
Why companies should hire former educators
Identifying and understanding burnout and wellbeing
Ways to improve education


The authentic career journeys of former educators who are succeeding in new career fields will inspire you to take the leap and begin your new career journey. Parents and policy makers who value keeping the best educators in their local schools will also be enlightened learning about the experiences of teachers and principals, and how we can once again make education a desirable career.