Thinking about changing careers to become a teacher? Your skills — from careers in corporate management, finance, counseling, writing, science, non-profit leadership, publishing, architecture, the arts, and beyond—can seamlessly transfer into teaching.
We encourage you to attend Bank Street Graduate School of Education’s Virtual Info Session for Career Changers on Monday, April 20, 2026, 7:00 PM-8:00 PM.
Many who explore teaching mid-career describe it as a calling—a path toward connecting with others, finding renewed meaning in your work, and making a difference. At the info session, you’ll learn about how Bank Street’s programs support career changers who want to transition into education, earn certification, and make a lasting difference in the lives of children.
Meet Our Alumni Panelists
At the event, you’ll hear from five alumni who successfully navigated this transition and discovered that the skills from their previous career paths easily transferred into the classroom. Click through to read their stories below.
- Kate Dubose, GSE ’24: After 25 years as an administrator, Kate transitioned into early childhood education to “heal some of that academic trauma” from her own past. Now an associate teacher working with two-year-olds, she draws on her organizational expertise to create supportive learning environments.
- Serniqua Dougherty, GSE ’22: Serniqua left a career as a high-end interior designer to become a special education head teacher. She uses her creative background to engage students through art and hands-on activities while building empathetic relationships with parents.
- Janai Gilkes, GSE ’19: Transitioning from corporate HR and administrative management, Janai sought a mission-driven life in educational leadership. Today, she serves as the Foster Grandparent Program Director for the NYC Department for the Aging, managing multimillion-dollar budgets and advocating for community impact.
- Miki Tomaru, GSE ’22: Formerly a professional in a high-stress field, Miki chose the TESOL Residency Program to better harmonize her work with her values. As an ENL teacher in the Bronx, she focuses on emotional needs first, ensuring every student’s cultural identity is honored.
- Jack Woodhull, GSE ’18: A former professional musician and stay-at-home dad, Jack found his calling while experiencing his daughter’s unbridled curiosity. Today, he is a third-grade teacher who uses rhythmic patterns to help students focus during math.
Ready to Make the Change?
A career change into teaching can reshape both your life and your community. You already have the experience, compassion, and curiosity that make a great teacher. Now, Bank Street can provide the preparation, mentorship, and credentials to help you step confidently into the classroom.
As Kate DeBose suggests, your best first step is to “reach out to somebody at Bank Street and have a conversation.” This panel is your opportunity to do just that—to ask the questions that matter and see how your own professional experiences can become your greatest teaching asset.
RSVP Today
Date: Monday, April 20, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM EST
Location: Virtual via Zoom
RSVP for the Career Changers Alumni Panel (Virtual) Request Information Apply Now
Questions? Please reach out to gseenrollment@bankstreet.edu