Be a Legacy Teacher
Five Purpose-Filled Pathways to Inspire Late-Career and Retiring Educators
Purchase
eBook
ISBN:
9798348831592
Available from
January 0001
Paperback
ISBN:
9781071990216
Available from
November 2025
Description
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.
Contents
About the Author
About the Author
Welcome Letter to the Readers
Welcome Letter to the Readers
Introduction ~ Prepare For Your Legacy Teacher Journey
- My Journey
- Who Is a Legacy Teacher?
- Why Become a Legacy Teacher?
- How This Book Is Organized
- Embrace Art, Poetry, and Voice
PART I ~ TRANSITIONING FROM YOUR FULL-TIME CAREER
- What’s Your Why?
- Expanding the Continuum
- The Profession Needs You Now
- Poem ~ “If Not You, Who?” by William Martin
- Chapter 1 ~ Begin Your Journey in Your Heart: Listen to your heart and follow its guidance.
- Poem ~ from Self-Love Poetry: For Thinkers & Feelers by Melody Godfred
- How Do You Listen?
- Acknowledge Your Journey into Teaching
- Find Your Inner Guide Through Your Heart
- Be Curious and Creative
- Chapter 2 ~ Look Back ~ Look Forward: Embrace every ending as a new beginning.
- Poem ~ “Existence of You” by Katje Wagner
- How Will You Honor Your Legacy?
- Celebrate Your Education Journey
- Draw Your Education Journey Map
- Embrace Your Strengths as a Legacy Teacher
- Chapter 3 ~ Maintain Your Balance: Stay inspired.
- Poem ~ “When I Am Among the Trees” by Mary Oliver
- How Do You Stay Inspired?
- Age Gracefully
- Use the Arts and Inspirational Tools to Guide You
- Communicate with Respect from the Heart
- Pause and Reflect: What Have You Learned in Part I?
PART II ~ CONTINUING SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES: EXPLORE YOUR OPTIONS
- What’s Next?
- Take Your Time
- Be Discerning
- Part II Organization
- Chapter 4 ~ MENTOR: Be ready to start something new.
- Poem ~ “Don’t Make Lists” by Dorothy Walters
- What Are Some Mentoring Options?
- Opportunities to Consider
- One-on-One Mentoring
- Group Mentoring Related to Teaching Practices
- Mentoring for Educator Well-Being
- Podcast PD Mentoring to Share Wisdom
- Mentor Preparation Workshops
- Mentoring Teaching Assistants and Substitute Teachers
- Mentoring Student Teachers and Interns
- Creating Your Own Mentoring Opportunity
- Chapter 5 ~ TEACH: Remember who you are.
- Poem ~ “The Teacher” by Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer
- Is Teaching Your Goal?
- Opportunities to Consider
- Teaching Students
- Teaching at a University or Local College
- Teaching at Local Community Centers
- Teaching Online Courses and Curriculum
- Supporting Alternative Certification Pathways
- Exploring Department of Defense and International Schools
- Applying for Fulbright Scholarships
- Creating Your Own Teaching Opportunity
- Chapter 6 ~ WRITE: Choose trust over doubt.
- Poem ~ “Passion Makes the Old Medicine New” by Rumi
- What Do You Have to Say?
- Opportunities to Consider
- Creating a School Newsletter
- Taking Notes
- Writing Blogs and Articles
- Reviewing Manuscripts for Book Publishers
- Writing Grants
- Participating on Evaluation Review Teams
- Writing a Nonfiction Education Book
- Creating Your Own Writing Opportunity
- Chapter 7 ~ CONSULT: Remember why you started.
- Poem ~ “You Reading This, Be Ready” by William Stafford
- Is Sharing with Others for You?
- Opportunities to Consider
- Delivering Workshops and Curriculum Presentations
- Supporting Special Area Teachers
- Sharing Wellness Strategies for All Educators
- Coaching in the Content Areas
- Advising in Teacher Preparation Programs
- Joining National and International Professional Organizations
- Being an Entrepreneur
- Creating Your Own Consulting Opportunity
- Chapter 8 ~ INFLUENCE: Accept change and all of its possibilities.
- Poem ~ “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost
- Where is Your Sphere of Influence?
- Opportunities to Consider
- Being a Guest on a Podcast, Radio Show, or Webinar
- Participating on an Education Foundation Board of Directors
- Joining Alumni Network Committees
- Volunteering at Local Organization
- Running for the Local School Board
- Joining a Department of Education State Review Team
- Taking on a Teacher Union Role
- Creating Your Own Influencer Opportunity
- Pause and Reflect: What have you learned from Part II?
PART III ~ MOVING FORWARD: TAKE ACTION!
- How Will You Know What to Do?
- Who Will Support You?
- Chapter 9 ~ Branch Out: What’s Your Action Plan? Be open to new adventures.
- Poem ~ “For Belonging” by John O’Donohue
- How Do You Feel About Not Knowing?
- Time, Commitment, and Engagement
- Creating Your Action Plan
- Take Action
- Chapter 10 ~ Share Your Passion, Wisdom, and Experience: You are on the right path.
- Poem ~ “You Are a Poem” by Heidi Rose Robbins
- What Are You Yearning for?
- Creating a Legacy Teacher Network
- Honor Legacy Cycles
- My Poem
- Caring for Ourselves and Others
- Appendices
- Appendix A: Reading and Networking Plans
- Organize a Legacy Teacher Book Club
- Honor Legacy Teachers in Your District
- Design a Legacy Teacher Network
- Appendix B: Companion Website Resources
- Legacy Teacher Journal
- Reading and Networking Plans
- Voices of Legacy Teachers
- Poem Readings
- Mentoring in Action Resources
- Teacher to Teacher Podcasts
- Teaching with Light Resources
- References
- Recommended Resources
- Thank Yous
- Index
Resources
Companion Website
https://companion.corwin.com/courses/LegacyTeacherAdditional materials
Description
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.
Contents
About the Author
About the Author
Welcome Letter to the Readers
Welcome Letter to the Readers
Introduction ~ Prepare For Your Legacy Teacher Journey
- My Journey
- Who Is a Legacy Teacher?
- Why Become a Legacy Teacher?
- How This Book Is Organized
- Embrace Art, Poetry, and Voice
PART I ~ TRANSITIONING FROM YOUR FULL-TIME CAREER
- What’s Your Why?
- Expanding the Continuum
- The Profession Needs You Now
- Poem ~ “If Not You, Who?” by William Martin
- Chapter 1 ~ Begin Your Journey in Your Heart: Listen to your heart and follow its guidance.
- Poem ~ from Self-Love Poetry: For Thinkers & Feelers by Melody Godfred
- How Do You Listen?
- Acknowledge Your Journey into Teaching
- Find Your Inner Guide Through Your Heart
- Be Curious and Creative
- Chapter 2 ~ Look Back ~ Look Forward: Embrace every ending as a new beginning.
- Poem ~ “Existence of You” by Katje Wagner
- How Will You Honor Your Legacy?
- Celebrate Your Education Journey
- Draw Your Education Journey Map
- Embrace Your Strengths as a Legacy Teacher
- Chapter 3 ~ Maintain Your Balance: Stay inspired.
- Poem ~ “When I Am Among the Trees” by Mary Oliver
- How Do You Stay Inspired?
- Age Gracefully
- Use the Arts and Inspirational Tools to Guide You
- Communicate with Respect from the Heart
- Pause and Reflect: What Have You Learned in Part I?
PART II ~ CONTINUING SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES: EXPLORE YOUR OPTIONS
- What’s Next?
- Take Your Time
- Be Discerning
- Part II Organization
- Chapter 4 ~ MENTOR: Be ready to start something new.
- Poem ~ “Don’t Make Lists” by Dorothy Walters
- What Are Some Mentoring Options?
- Opportunities to Consider
- One-on-One Mentoring
- Group Mentoring Related to Teaching Practices
- Mentoring for Educator Well-Being
- Podcast PD Mentoring to Share Wisdom
- Mentor Preparation Workshops
- Mentoring Teaching Assistants and Substitute Teachers
- Mentoring Student Teachers and Interns
- Creating Your Own Mentoring Opportunity
- Chapter 5 ~ TEACH: Remember who you are.
- Poem ~ “The Teacher” by Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer
- Is Teaching Your Goal?
- Opportunities to Consider
- Teaching Students
- Teaching at a University or Local College
- Teaching at Local Community Centers
- Teaching Online Courses and Curriculum
- Supporting Alternative Certification Pathways
- Exploring Department of Defense and International Schools
- Applying for Fulbright Scholarships
- Creating Your Own Teaching Opportunity
- Chapter 6 ~ WRITE: Choose trust over doubt.
- Poem ~ “Passion Makes the Old Medicine New” by Rumi
- What Do You Have to Say?
- Opportunities to Consider
- Creating a School Newsletter
- Taking Notes
- Writing Blogs and Articles
- Reviewing Manuscripts for Book Publishers
- Writing Grants
- Participating on Evaluation Review Teams
- Writing a Nonfiction Education Book
- Creating Your Own Writing Opportunity
- Chapter 7 ~ CONSULT: Remember why you started.
- Poem ~ “You Reading This, Be Ready” by William Stafford
- Is Sharing with Others for You?
- Opportunities to Consider
- Delivering Workshops and Curriculum Presentations
- Supporting Special Area Teachers
- Sharing Wellness Strategies for All Educators
- Coaching in the Content Areas
- Advising in Teacher Preparation Programs
- Joining National and International Professional Organizations
- Being an Entrepreneur
- Creating Your Own Consulting Opportunity
- Chapter 8 ~ INFLUENCE: Accept change and all of its possibilities.
- Poem ~ “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost
- Where is Your Sphere of Influence?
- Opportunities to Consider
- Being a Guest on a Podcast, Radio Show, or Webinar
- Participating on an Education Foundation Board of Directors
- Joining Alumni Network Committees
- Volunteering at Local Organization
- Running for the Local School Board
- Joining a Department of Education State Review Team
- Taking on a Teacher Union Role
- Creating Your Own Influencer Opportunity
- Pause and Reflect: What have you learned from Part II?
PART III ~ MOVING FORWARD: TAKE ACTION!
- How Will You Know What to Do?
- Who Will Support You?
- Chapter 9 ~ Branch Out: What’s Your Action Plan? Be open to new adventures.
- Poem ~ “For Belonging” by John O’Donohue
- How Do You Feel About Not Knowing?
- Time, Commitment, and Engagement
- Creating Your Action Plan
- Take Action
- Chapter 10 ~ Share Your Passion, Wisdom, and Experience: You are on the right path.
- Poem ~ “You Are a Poem” by Heidi Rose Robbins
- What Are You Yearning for?
- Creating a Legacy Teacher Network
- Honor Legacy Cycles
- My Poem
- Caring for Ourselves and Others
- Appendices
- Appendix A: Reading and Networking Plans
- Organize a Legacy Teacher Book Club
- Honor Legacy Teachers in Your District
- Design a Legacy Teacher Network
- Appendix B: Companion Website Resources
- Legacy Teacher Journal
- Reading and Networking Plans
- Voices of Legacy Teachers
- Poem Readings
- Mentoring in Action Resources
- Teacher to Teacher Podcasts
- Teaching with Light Resources
- References
- Recommended Resources
- Thank Yous
- Index
Resources
Companion Website
https://companion.corwin.com/courses/LegacyTeacherAdditional materials
Reviews
Be a Legacy Teacher
Five Purpose-Filled Pathways to Inspire Late-Career and Retiring Educators
October 2025 | 216 pages | Corwin
| Format | Published Date | ISBN | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paperback | 01/02/2026 | 9781071990216 | $40.95 |
| Lifetime | 01/02/2026 | 9798348831592 | $37.00 |
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.
Table Of Contents:
- About the Author
- Welcome Letter to the Readers
- Introduction ~ Prepare For Your Legacy Teacher Journey
- My Journey
- Who Is a Legacy Teacher?
- Why Become a Legacy Teacher?
- How This Book Is Organized
- Embrace Art, Poetry, and Voice
- PART I ~ TRANSITIONING FROM YOUR FULL-TIME CAREER
- What’s Your Why?
- Expanding the Continuum
- The Profession Needs You Now
- Poem ~ “If Not You, Who?” by William Martin
- Chapter 1 ~ Begin Your Journey in Your Heart: Listen to your heart and follow its guidance.
- Poem ~ from Self-Love Poetry: For Thinkers & Feelers by Melody Godfred
- How Do You Listen?
- Acknowledge Your Journey into Teaching
- Find Your Inner Guide Through Your Heart
- Be Curious and Creative
- Chapter 2 ~ Look Back ~ Look Forward: Embrace every ending as a new beginning.
- Poem ~ “Existence of You” by Katje Wagner
- How Will You Honor Your Legacy?
- Celebrate Your Education Journey
- Draw Your Education Journey Map
- Embrace Your Strengths as a Legacy Teacher
- Chapter 3 ~ Maintain Your Balance: Stay inspired.
- Poem ~ “When I Am Among the Trees” by Mary Oliver
- How Do You Stay Inspired?
- Age Gracefully
- Use the Arts and Inspirational Tools to Guide You
- Communicate with Respect from the Heart
- Pause and Reflect: What Have You Learned in Part I?
- PART II ~ CONTINUING SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES: EXPLORE YOUR OPTIONS
- What’s Next?
- Take Your Time
- Be Discerning
- Part II Organization
- Chapter 4 ~ MENTOR: Be ready to start something new.
- Poem ~ “Don’t Make Lists” by Dorothy Walters
- What Are Some Mentoring Options?
- Opportunities to Consider
- One-on-One Mentoring
- Group Mentoring Related to Teaching Practices
- Mentoring for Educator Well-Being
- Podcast PD Mentoring to Share Wisdom
- Mentor Preparation Workshops
- Mentoring Teaching Assistants and Substitute Teachers
- Mentoring Student Teachers and Interns
- Creating Your Own Mentoring Opportunity
- Chapter 5 ~ TEACH: Remember who you are.
- Poem ~ “The Teacher” by Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer
- Is Teaching Your Goal?
- Opportunities to Consider
- Teaching Students
- Teaching at a University or Local College
- Teaching at Local Community Centers
- Teaching Online Courses and Curriculum
- Supporting Alternative Certification Pathways
- Exploring Department of Defense and International Schools
- Applying for Fulbright Scholarships
- Creating Your Own Teaching Opportunity
- Chapter 6 ~ WRITE: Choose trust over doubt.
- Poem ~ “Passion Makes the Old Medicine New” by Rumi
- What Do You Have to Say?
- Opportunities to Consider
- Creating a School Newsletter
- Taking Notes
- Writing Blogs and Articles
- Reviewing Manuscripts for Book Publishers
- Writing Grants
- Participating on Evaluation Review Teams
- Writing a Nonfiction Education Book
- Creating Your Own Writing Opportunity
- Chapter 7 ~ CONSULT: Remember why you started.
- Poem ~ “You Reading This, Be Ready” by William Stafford
- Is Sharing with Others for You?
- Opportunities to Consider
- Delivering Workshops and Curriculum Presentations
- Supporting Special Area Teachers
- Sharing Wellness Strategies for All Educators
- Coaching in the Content Areas
- Advising in Teacher Preparation Programs
- Joining National and International Professional Organizations
- Being an Entrepreneur
- Creating Your Own Consulting Opportunity
- Chapter 8 ~ INFLUENCE: Accept change and all of its possibilities.
- Poem ~ “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost
- Where is Your Sphere of Influence?
- Opportunities to Consider
- Being a Guest on a Podcast, Radio Show, or Webinar
- Participating on an Education Foundation Board of Directors
- Joining Alumni Network Committees
- Volunteering at Local Organization
- Running for the Local School Board
- Joining a Department of Education State Review Team
- Taking on a Teacher Union Role
- Creating Your Own Influencer Opportunity
- Pause and Reflect: What have you learned from Part II?
- PART III ~ MOVING FORWARD: TAKE ACTION!
- How Will You Know What to Do?
- Who Will Support You?
- Chapter 9 ~ Branch Out: What’s Your Action Plan? Be open to new adventures.
- Poem ~ “For Belonging” by John O’Donohue
- How Do You Feel About Not Knowing?
- Time, Commitment, and Engagement
- Creating Your Action Plan
- Take Action
- Chapter 10 ~ Share Your Passion, Wisdom, and Experience: You are on the right path.
- Poem ~ “You Are a Poem” by Heidi Rose Robbins
- What Are You Yearning for?
- Creating a Legacy Teacher Network
- Honor Legacy Cycles
- My Poem
- Caring for Ourselves and Others
- Appendices
- Appendix A: Reading and Networking Plans
- Organize a Legacy Teacher Book Club
- Honor Legacy Teachers in Your District
- Design a Legacy Teacher Network
- Appendix B: Companion Website Resources
- Legacy Teacher Journal
- Reading and Networking Plans
- Voices of Legacy Teachers
- Poem Readings
- Mentoring in Action Resources
- Teacher to Teacher Podcasts
- Teaching with Light Resources
- References
- Recommended Resources
- Thank Yous
- Index
Recent Product Reviews:
"'I'm retiring from the classroom. What do I do now?' Many retiring teachers certainly don’t feel finished contributing. This book from Carol Pelletier Radford is a wonderful resource for teachers and school leaders who wonder what to do next. It’s packed with concrete, doable ideas for educators who still have so much to contribute. Whether you treat this book as a worktext or you just read through, you will discover ideas you might not have thought about."
Gretchen Bernabei, Author and Retired Teacher
"Every once in a while a book is written that you didn’t know you needed to read. Carol Radford has written a book that allows you to explore the needs you might have and gives you help in examining them. The reader gets a gift of possibilities with new ideas and new ways to explore them for his/her own growth. I highly recommend this dynamic read."
Marilyn Frank, President, Retired Educators Association of Massachusetts
"Carol Pelletier Radford invites teachers, especially those approaching retirement, to enter into a deep conversation, one that is both personal and professional, about the teacher they were and the teacher they can still be to new and experienced teachers. After thirty-five years in the classroom, I recently retired but felt I had more to contribute. This book honored all that I had learned and showed me ways I could offer those lessons to those teachers just entering the profession and those still creating their legacy."
Jim Burke, Author of Teaching Better Day by Day
"Carol has set the standard for quality mentoring in the field and has devoted herself serving novice educators and those who support them. This book invites other seasoned educators to discover ways to share their wisdom, talent, and passion to ensure bright futures for those who follow in their footsteps."
Tami DuFault-Toomb, New Teacher Mentor Program Coordinator, Linn Benton Lincoln ESD
"A treasure trove of splendid ideas of how to utilize one of our most precious resources: the retired teacher. Radford adroitly leads her audience through networking silos, arriving at the final destination of legacy teacher—priceless!"
Roberta (Bobbie) Margo, Recent Member of the National Education Association (NEA); Retired Executive Council and NEA Retired Life Member; Current Member, Education Minnesota Retired Governing Board