Why I Became a Teacherpreneur: My Experience Selling Resources on Teachers Pay Teachers
Some moments stop you in your tracks—in the best way. Receiving my 2025 Yearbook from Teachers Pay Teachers was one of those moments for me.
Years ago, when I was still in the classroom, Teachers Pay Teachers was my go-to place for finding resources that actually worked. Like so many teachers, I relied on materials created by teachers, for teachers—resources born out of real classrooms, real students, and real challenges. Back then, my days were full, my energy was limited, and my focus was on surviving and serving my students well. Creating resources for other teachers? That felt completely out of reach.
And yet, here I am.
From Classroom Teacher to Teacherpreneur
I never imagined that one day I’d be creating resources not only for myself, but for teachers across the United States—and even in other countries. The idea that something I designed at my kitchen table could land in classrooms I’ll never visit still amazes me.
What started as a way to organize my own teaching materials slowly turned into something bigger. Over time, I realized that the strategies, tools, and lessons I had refined in my own classroom could help other teachers save time, feel more confident, and focus on what truly matters: their students.
That realization changed everything.
Teaching Doesn’t Always Look the Same
Leaving the classroom doesn’t mean leaving teaching behind. For me, it meant teaching in a new way.
As a teacherpreneur, I now get to support educators during lesson planning instead of during the school day. I get to help reduce overwhelm before it begins. I get to create print-and-go, standards-aligned resources that meet teachers where they are—tired, busy, and deeply committed to their students.
That impact feels just as meaningful.
Gratitude for the Journey
Seeing my work reflected back to me through something like the TPT Yearbook isn’t about recognition—it’s about perspective. It’s a reminder of how far this journey has come and how unexpected blessings can grow when you follow a nudge and take one small step at a time.
I’m grateful for:
The teachers who trust my resources
The classrooms these materials reach
The flexibility to work from home
The ability to still serve the education community in a way that aligns with this season of life
The Best Part of This Chapter
Working from home as my own teacherpreneur has been one of the most rewarding chapters of my career. It’s given me the freedom to create with intention, reflect with gratitude, and continue supporting teachers in meaningful ways.
Teaching will always be part of who I am. It just looks a little different now—and that’s okay.
If you’re a teacher who’s ever wondered whether your experience could translate into something beyond the classroom, let this be your reminder: your knowledge matters, your work has value, and your journey doesn’t end when the bell rings.
Sometimes, it comes full circle in ways you never expected.
Come by and visit my store
If you’re still in the classroom and feeling stretched for time, know that you’re not alone. I create resources with busy teachers in mind—materials I wish I had when I was teaching full time.
👉 Explore my teacher-created resources on Teachers Pay Teachers
