Ahh, summer. The season teachers dream about all year... It's a time when classrooms are empty, coffee tastes better, and the piles of papers to be graded temporarily vanish, and afternoons by the pool finally become a reality. It’s also when educators have time to consider their professional journey without the guilt of leaving their students mid-semester. If you’ve been eyeing opportunities beyond your classroom walls, now is your chance to explore a career in EdTech.
Why EdTech? (Hint: It's Not Just the Cool Tech Gadgets)
Educational Technology companies love educators. Seriously, they do! Your real-world teaching experience and deep understanding of student needs are precisely what many EdTech companies seek. In fact, according to a recent study from EdSurge, nearly 34% of EdTech employees previously worked in education as teachers or administrators. That's right: nearly one in three folks in EdTech has walked in your shoes (and likely survived parent-teacher conferences and cafeteria duty).
Better Pay, Less Red Ink
Let’s face it, while teaching is incredibly rewarding, the salary can sometimes leave educators wishing for more zeros at the end of their paycheck. According to the National Education Association (NEA), the average public school teacher salary for the 2024-2025 school year was approximately $68,000 annually. Compare that to EdTech, where Glassdoor reports an average salary of around $95,000 annually. Imagine fewer financial worries and more room for those fancy coffee orders.
So, How Can You Use Summer Wisely?
Summer gives you a low-pressure opportunity to explore a new career without the stress of a ticking clock. Here’s how you can make the most of it:
- Research EdTech Companies: Familiarize yourself with companies aligned with your educational philosophy or that provie something you already love.
- Network Effectively: Connect on LinkedIn with former educators now thriving in EdTech roles. They’ll likely give you some very relatable advice!
- Upskill a Bit: Consider short courses or certifications in areas like instructional design, customer success, AI, or product training.
- Attend Webinars and Workshops: Summer is peak season for professional development webinars. Put on comfy pants, grab your iced coffee, and learn!
- Strategically Apply: Aim for positions with start dates in late summer or early fall to avoid classroom disruptions.
But Will I Like EdTech?
Transitioning careers can be scary, but remember, EdTech roles often allow you to keep the best parts of teaching: helping students, supporting educators, and improving educational outcomes, minus the paper grading marathons.
Ready to Explore?
Take the first step toward your new adventure. Check out the latest EdTech job listings on EdTechJobs.io and discover the opportunities waiting for you this summer. You’ve earned your summer break! Why not use it to create your career breakthrough?