Working Mom Turned Teacher: Jillian’s Story

Jillian Discovers Her Path to Teaching

Jillian’s experience as a working-mom-turned-teacher begins in her hometown, where she grows up, works, and eventually finds her calling. She says she worked “at a local gym part-time and as a paraprofessional in my current school district.” Her time supporting students changes her plans. “I loved being in the classroom and quickly realized that education was where I was meant to be.”

Her community shapes her career choice. “I chose to pursue a career in education because I wanted to make a difference in the same community that shaped me.” Jillian explains that she understands the obstacles many students face, and she wants to be someone who believes in them and helps them see their strengths.

Balancing Work, Parenting, and Certification

When Jillian begins exploring certification paths, she needs an option that fits her busy life. She explains, “I learned about American Board’s program while exploring different paths to teacher certification.” At that time, she is working and caring for her one-year-old. She needs flexibility, and she finds it. “The flexibility of the ABCTE program made it possible for me to pursue my dream of teaching while still supporting my family.” Notably, Jillian details that the program offers a practical, accessible route to certification, which she appreciated.

Flexibility becomes the part she values most. “It allowed me to study at my own pace while working full time.” Jillian also offers advice to future candidates. She says, “Set a schedule and stick to it, even if it’s just a little time each day.” She adds that support matters. “Colleagues, friends, and mentors can make a huge difference when you’re preparing for the exams.”

Teaching at Home and Giving Back

Today, Jillian teaches middle school English and Geography in her hometown in New Hampshire. “I’ve now been working here for the past ten years!” She usually teaches seventh grade, but in her small school, she sometimes teaches sixth or eighth as well.

Jillian states, “Teaching in the town where I grew up means the world to me. Having been raised in a low-income community, I understand many of the challenges my students face beyond the classroom. This perspective shapes everything I do as an educator. I approach teaching with empathy and a deep sense of purpose, recognizing that school may not always be my students’ top priority as they navigate responsibilities and circumstances outside of their control. My goal is to meet them where they are, offering flexibility, encouragement, and support to help them succeed. I strive to create a classroom that feels safe, welcoming, and consistent, a place where every student knows that someone believes in them and is committed to helping them reach their full potential.”

Her favorite part of teaching is staying rooted in her community. “I love that I get to teach in my hometown and give back to the community that raised me.” Jillian explains that she feels inspired by her students’ resilience and creativity. She also enjoys building curriculum with her colleagues. She explains that they create “a diverse and engaging English Language Arts curriculum that reflects a wide range of voices and experiences.” Jillian gets to watch students connect with stories that reflect their lives. “Seeing students connect with what they’re reading… is one of the most rewarding parts of my job.”

Jillian’s journey shows how determination and opportunity can help any working mom turned teacher build a meaningful career.

Your Turn to Become a Teacher

You can give back to the hometown you love by becoming a teacher. Teaching lets you invest directly in your community. You support students who face the same challenges you once did. You help families, strengthen schools, and shape the future of your town. American Board offers the fastest and most affordable route to teacher certification. The program is designed to help people bloom where they are planted. With flexible, self-paced study, you can stay rooted in your community and still move toward the career you want. Becoming a teacher allows you to give back in the most meaningful way possible.