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She also serves as an Adjunct Professor at Touro University, preparing future instructional designers to thrive in today’s digital learning landscape. Holly hosts the EdUp L&D podcast, where she spotlights the voices and innovations shaping the future of learning—with a strong focus on accessibility, inclusion, and impact.

Amy Donato is a former middle school science teacher turned instructional coach and professional learning facilitator, passionate about helping educators thrive. After years in the brick-and-mortar classroom, she now supports teachers through practical coaching and engaging PD that builds confidence in teachers and improves instruction for students.  

Chelsea Maude Avirett is a former educator and the founder of Skip’s Job Board, a curated platform designed to help educators find roles that align with their skills and experience. After experiencing firsthand how time-consuming and overwhelming the job search process can be, she launched the platform in 2021 to streamline access to relevant opportunities.

Since then, Chelsea has curated over 20,000 education-adjacent roles, helping job seekers identify positions across both major companies and smaller organizations. She also has extensive experience interviewing candidates across a range of roles and regularly shares insights on hiring trends in EdTech and Learning & Development through podcasts and professional speaking engagements.

Nate Ditterline is a former educator with over 15 years of instructional experience and now serves as a Supervisor for Expanse Trainers, supporting technical training for a new software rollout. After transitioning out of the classroom, Nate has focused on training development, onboarding, and leadership support—helping teams successfully adopt new systems and processes.

Throughout his career, he has trained over 400 leaders, co-developed and facilitated leadership programs, and led large-scale training initiatives. Nate brings a practical, collaborative, and people-centered approach to training, along with a strong background in curriculum implementation and professional development.

 management.

Gina Arnello made the decision to pursue a new path that aligned with her passion for accessibility, communication, and problem-solving after 20 years as a special education teacher. With support from the Teacher Career Transition Academy, she successfully transitioned into her current role as an Assistive Technology Specialist.

In her role, Gina works with individuals with disabilities, families, and support teams to expand communication access and implement tools such as AAC and other assistive technologies. She is passionate about helping others find practical, individualized solutions and is excited to share her journey with educators exploring what’s next.

Denise Treadway spent 29 years as an elementary classroom teacher before retiring from education in 2025 and beginning a new chapter in her career. She now works as an Estimator for Texas Site Services, a locally owned pavement striping and sweeping company.

Denise’s transition highlights that it’s never too late to make a change. In addition to her current role, she serves on the Board of Education for Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran School and Childcare. She brings a thoughtful, steady perspective to the transition process and is excited to share what it’s looked like to start something new after a long career in education.

Renee Jackson is currently in the “messy middle” of her career transition after more than a decade in education. She teaches English as an Additional Language and brings a diverse professional background that includes experience as a computer programmer, homeschooling parent, and international educator.

After teaching in Costa Rica, Hong Kong, and now in the U.S., Renee recently made the decision to explore new career opportunities. Since joining the Teacher Career Transition Academy, she has been actively applying to roles, gaining traction, and beginning to receive callbacks. Renee brings a real-time, honest perspective on what it looks like to navigate change while still in the classroom.

Rachel Dunbar is a special educator with over eight years of experience supporting diverse learners and leading professional development in K–12 schools. She is currently transitioning into the EdTech space, exploring roles in implementation, onboarding, and professional learning.

Through her journey, Rachel has leaned into the support of the Teacher Career Transition Academy, where coaching, mindset work, and community have helped her build confidence and strengthen her interview skills. She brings a thoughtful, reflective perspective to the transition process, along with a creative edge as a stand-up comedian and show producer.

Samara Birkey is currently balancing roles as a high school civics teacher and office administrator while exploring new career opportunities beyond the classroom. Her passion for culture, history, and technology has shaped her approach to teaching and continues to influence her next steps.

Known for her strong work ethic, adaptability, and problem-solving mindset, Samara is actively building momentum in her transition. She brings a grounded, thoughtful perspective to the “messy middle” and is committed to finding a path that aligns with both her skills and long-term goals.