For educators considering a career change, a common question looms: Will my experience in the classroom and school administration truly be valued in a corporate setting? Or will I be starting from scratch? The answer, from those who have successfully made the leap, is a resounding affirmation of the unique and powerful perspective that educators bring to the business world.
In a recent episode of the Always A Teacher podcast, I spoke with David Thomas, National Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at RethinkEd. His journey through higher education and K-12 administration to an executive role in EdTech provides a compelling case for why companies don't just accept former educators—they actively seek them out.
The Practitioner's Advantage: Telling the Story Better
Why would a company hire a former teacher or principal for a strategic role? According to David, the reason is simple: they have an unmatched level of credibility and understanding. Former practitioners have lived the challenges and triumphs of the education world. This firsthand experience allows them to connect with school leaders on a deeper level and articulate how a solution will genuinely work in practice, not just in theory. They can "tell the story better" because they have been a character in it.
"At RethinkEd, we hire a lot of former educators—both classroom teachers and many from central office—because they have the experience and the background that can best relate the solutions we provide to practitioners... they can tell the story better than those of us who are not the actual practitioners on how various K-12 solutions can provide the best and highest quality services."
A Mission-Driven Filter: Aligning with Your Core Values
Transitioning to a corporate role doesn't mean leaving your mission behind. For David, a company's commitment to improving student outcomes is a non-negotiable prerequisite. He provides a powerful framework for educators to use when evaluating potential employers: does the company's product or service genuinely enhance learning and create better opportunities for all students, especially those who have been historically underserved? This mission-driven filter ensures that a career move aligns with the core values that drew so many to education in the first place.
"I believe that the most effective education technology company has to provide the best possible services to enhance the outcome for all kids. And if it does not do that, then I don't think it's the right company... I've always looked at what is the service and solution that that company is providing and how will that service and solution best benefit kids."
Skills That Translate: From School Leadership to Strategic Partnerships
The skills required to run a school or manage a district—navigating complex systems, understanding stakeholder needs, and focusing relentlessly on outcomes—are directly transferable to high-level strategic roles in the corporate world. The ability to see the big picture while understanding the on-the-ground realities is a rare and valuable combination. David's career demonstrates that the leadership and strategic thinking honed in education are precisely the skills needed to build successful partnerships and drive growth in EdTech.
"How do I take my classroom experiences into the next chapter of my life?... those who transition from K-12 to the corporate side... can best provide the the best and highest quality services to ensure that those who are in the classroom, in the central office can do the best job, but then also how it could best benefit the actual scholars themselves in the schools."
Listen to the Full Conversation
David’s journey is a powerful affirmation for any educator wondering if their experience has a place in the business world. His insights confirm that your background isn't just a part of your history; it's your most significant strategic advantage.
Listen to our full conversation on the Always A Teacher podcast to hear more.
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