Be a Legacy Teacher
Five Purpose-Filled Pathways to Inspire Late-Career and Retiring Educators
Mentoring
Share your wisdom, passion, and experience as you plan your next chapter
For educators, teaching is more than just a job; it's a part of who they are. But when the time comes to start thinking about leaving the classroom, many are left asking, What's next? Retirement doesn't have to mean stepping away from the impact you've made or the wisdom you've gained. Be a Legacy Teacher provides a roadmap to help retiring teachers—and those thinking about retirement—transition into a fulfilling new phase of life while continuing to contribute to the betterment of education.
This inspiring and beautifully designed guide walks educators through five meaningful pathways to remain connected to their passion and community. Whether through mentorship, teaching in unconventional settings, writing, consulting, or influencing through community engagement, retiring educators will discover ways to create their own lasting legacy.
Designed to help retiring or late-career teachers explore practical ways in which they can move their love of teaching beyond the classroom, this book includes:
- Creative and actionable strategies to help retired teachers channel their knowledge and skills into impactful opportunities
- Journal prompts for reflection on personal goals, values, and next steps as you transition into retirement
- Stories and advice from experienced Legacy Teachers, offering ideas and inspiration from their real-life journeys
- A customizable Legacy Teacher Action Plan to transform your retirement goals into a meaningful reality
Whether you're planning your next chapter or already retired, Be a Legacy Teacher empowers you to honor your career and build upon your legacy of great teaching. Rediscover your purpose, support the next generation of educators, and continue to make a difference in your community.
"As a lifelong learner, educator and leader in mentorship, this book is a lovely reminder that “once a teacher, always a teacher”. Legacy Teachers are the core of our education system—Legacy Teachers often fill the gaps between the experienced and novice educators with their insight, bird’s eye perspective, and wisdom only gained through experience and observation. In the North Dakota statewide mentoring program (ND RISE), our Legacy Mentors are the key to ensuring our beginning teachers are prepared, purposeful, and engaged. Carol does a beautiful job laying out strategies that speak to the whole adult."
"With the increasing loss of “collective wisdom” in the teaching profession when the experienced and accomplished cadre of educators retire, significant efforts must be made to preserve their legacy for the next generations of teachers. Mentoring as a legacy undertaking should be at the heart of this effort. This book provides an invaluable resource toolkit to those teachers who are passionate about imparting their knowledge, helping others grow, and leaving an important mark in education by paying purposeful attention to their own and others’ wellbeing."