Embracing Change: A Journey from Elementary Education to Full-Stack Web Development
As the last five years of my career unfolded in the realm of elementary education, I found myself standing at a crossroads. The challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic not only reshaped the way we approached teaching but also ignited a passion for educational technology within me. Today, I embark on a new chapter, transitioning from the classroom to the field of full-stack web development.
The Catalyst: Educational Technology in the Midst of Crisis
The pandemic showed me the vast learning gaps that expanded among students during quarantine and the overwhelming demands on parents. It was during this tumultuous time that I witnessed the transformative power of technology in addressing these educational challenges. As classrooms shifted to virtual spaces and traditional methods were no longer sufficient, technology emerged as a lifeline for both educators and students.
My role as an educator provided a front-row seat to the impact and necessity of educational technology. I saw firsthand how technology could fill learning gaps, accommodate diverse needs, and provide overworked parents with valuable resources. The experience was a revelation, prompting me to explore the intersection of education and technology more deeply.
The Decision to Transition
Motivated by a desire to contribute to innovative solutions that positively impact education, I made the decision to transition into full-stack web development. The decision was not merely a career shift but a conscious choice to be part of a field that has the potential to revolutionize the way we approach learning. Nothing can replace face to face learning, but there are ways that technology can play a role in assisting closing learning gaps.
Passion for Problem Solving and Learning
What fuels this transition is my genuine passion for problem-solving and continuous learning. In the classroom, I eagerly embraced technology to enhance the learning experience for my students. Now, armed with the foundational skills of a seasoned educator and the technical prowess of a budding developer, I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead.
Looking Ahead
As I embark on this journey into full-stack web development, I bring with me the rich tapestry of experiences from the classroom. My background in elementary education equips me with strong communication skills, an understanding of diverse learning needs, and a dedication to creating solutions that positively impact students and their families.
This blog will serve as a chronicle of my transition – the challenges, the triumphs, and the continuous
learning that comes with embracing change. Join me as I navigate the exciting intersection of education and technology, contributing to a field that holds the promise of shaping the future of learning.
Thank you for being a part of this journey.
Embracing the Educator: Why companies should always hire the teacher.
In today's fast-paced and competitive business landscape, where innovation is currency and agility is king, there's a hidden gem waiting to revolutionize your team: the teacher. While their potential might be overlooked in traditional hiring practices, educators bring a fire and fervor that can fuel your company's success like never before.
Embracing Limitations, Igniting Innovation
Educators are masters of making miracles happen with minimal resources. They thrive in the challenge, turning limitations into opportunities for innovation. Imagine what they could achieve with the resources of your company at their fingertips!
Burning the Midnight Oil with Passion
Long hours aren't just a part of the job for teachers (Parent-Teacher Conferences are 12 hour days!); they're a testament to their unwavering dedication. Their passion ignites a flame that keeps burning long after the rest of the world has gone to bed, driving them to go above and beyond to ensure success.
Communicating with Clarity and Compassion
In the classroom, teachers are skilled navigators of diverse learning styles and abilities. Their ability to communicate with clarity and compassion ensures that no one gets left behind. In your company, this means fostering a culture of inclusivity and understanding that propels everyone towards greatness.
Turning Challenges into Triumphs
Every day, educators face a myriad of challenges, from unruly classrooms to ever-changing curriculum demands. (I once had to teach a classroom of 26 students with the power out!)Yet, they approach each obstacle with a spirit of resilience and resourcefulness, turning setbacks into stepping stones to success.
Champions of Growth and Support
Beyond academics, teachers serve as mentors, cheerleaders, and champions for their students' growth. They believe in the potential of every individual and go above and beyond to ensure their success. Imagine having that level of dedication and support within your own team!
Don't overlook the transformative power of educators when building your dream team. Their passion, dedication, communication skills, problem-solving prowess, and unwavering support can ignite a spark that propels your company to new heights. Embrace the educator, and watch as passion and purpose light up your workplace like never before!
The Unfiltered Truth
When I decided to leave teaching, I was in one of the toughest headspaces of my life. I was postpartum, adjusting to a new principal, and navigating a support staff that was already stretched thin. I wasn’t enjoying my job—or my time with my new baby—the way I’d envisioned. A career change seemed like the best move for my family and myself.
Flash forward $20,000 in bootcamp expenses, and I’m still unemployed, receiving rejection letters because I lack corporate experience. Is it frustrating? Absolutely. But, surprisingly, I’m in a better headspace than before.
Yes, it’s disheartening to get turned down, especially when it feels like it’s due to a lack of corporate experience. But now, I finally have the space to think, grow, and even use the bathroom when I need to.
What I wish hiring managers could see in my resume is this: I AM UNBELIEVABLY QUALIFIED.
-I love learning and can break down complex ideas into digestible concepts for any audience.
-I’m accustomed to working 10-hour days (and 12-hour days during conferences), showing up the next day with energy and professionalism.
-I’ve mastered writing professional, empathetic emails, even about playground mishaps like one child hitting another for saying their feet stink.
-I analyze data to identify gaps, design tailored lesson plans, and write detailed substitute plans that minimize disruption for sensitive students—all while rocking my RSV-stricken baby.
-I can handle back-to-back meetings and still deliver prepared, engaging lessons.
I left teaching because I wanted to move into edTech and make a broader impact beyond my classroom. But breaking into this field has been challenging, with companies often seeking senior engineers and overlooking those eager to grow. While I’m trying to stay positive and grateful for the mental space I’ve regained, a paycheck would be really nice, too.
