There is a new type of entrepreneur quickly rising in almost every city in America. They have a significant impact on the lives of many people. Do you know someone in education who is motivated, mission-driven, passionate, smart, and can create something new? If the answer is yes, you know an edupreneur. Edupreneurs are game-changing innovators who are bursting with education technology ideas and creativity. These talented and rising stars may be the missing link that your startup needs right now. Effective classroom teachers make some of the best startup leaders or colleagues because their traits run parallel to entrepreneurs. If an educator finds something to believe in, that passion can yield great results.
There are many reasons teachers are actively involved in the entrepreneur space. Schools are finally beginning to incorporate technology into their classrooms, resistance to technology is waning, and educators are advocates of 21st-century learning. Ed tech conferences are growing in the tens of thousands every year. Last month, over 18,000 teachers, presenters and startups collaborated at ISTE. Today, we live in a global education ecosystem that calls for the integration of educators and entrepreneurs.
Here are some reasons why you should consider working with a teacher turned entrepreneur:
They did not go into the field for money
Like entrepreneurs, effective teachers went into their chosen field to solve problems and make a difference in the world. Those who go into the classroom every day understand that teaching is not solely a career; it is a lifestyle that requires hours of work, flexibility and endless amounts of dedication. Educators are driven by a deep-rooted passion for helping others succeed as well as to bring forward positive change. As entrepreneurs, they know that money may or may not follow, but choose to pursue the endeavor for the greater good.
Multitasking is in their DNA
According to TeachThought, the average teacher makes over 1,500 educational decisions in one school day. They are fully engaged support systems for students, parents, and colleagues. Teachers manage everything in a classroom. These areas range from the physical environment to teaching students with different learning needs, levels, and language barriers. For many children, teachers are nurses, nurturers, cooks, and confidants. Compared to a corporate setting, this management could be equivalent to supporting 20-30 new-hires. Like entrepreneurs, teachers can juggle multiple priorities, and they fully understand and accept that this is part of their job.
They know how to communicate
Successful entrepreneurs can communicate with ease in different situations. Like entrepreneurs, effective teachers can explain complex ideas in ways everybody can comprehend. They understand their customers (students and parents) and know how to relate to them. You can listen to teachers speak at a third-grade level and then lead professional development workshops for 50 colleagues after school. Compelling teachers are master communicators who understand the importance of accurate communication.
If you are a new startup, especially in the ed tech field, consider looking out for edupreneurs. You may find one who breaks the mold for your company.
A bit about me:
I am an official education thought-leader on LinkedIn, with over 38,000 followers in my field.
I am the founder and senior editor of EdNews Daily. We interview and work with education startups, teachers, advocates, Shark Tank winners, entrepreneurs, innovators, nonprofits, and education game-changers. Some of our partners include Prepexert.com from Shark Tank, EdTechUpdate, Milewalk Academy, MyColLife, Edcast.com and our newest partner, BigMarker.