There’s no single path to becoming an outstanding educator. While some teachers come from traditional educational backgrounds, others find their way into the classroom through diverse and unexpected journeys. For Allison Fisher, a teacher from the Atlanta area, her journey began on Broadway. The discipline, preparation, and ability to engage with an audience she honed on stage would later serve as invaluable tools in her teaching career. In this exclusive Q&A, Allison shares her inspiring transition from performer to educator.
Plus, follow Allison on Instagram for a glimpse of her vibrant teaching style, complete with fun, dance, and infectious enthusiasm!
Q: What was your experience on Broadway?
I made my Broadway debut in the musical Chicago, where I played the role of Mona—the character known for her “artistic differences.” Prior to my Broadway debut, I had the opportunity to perform with the international touring company of Chicago and even showcased the show on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship.
What makes Chicago so special is that it truly is an ensemble piece. Performing it around the globe and on Broadway was an incredible experience, but what stands out the most are the friendships and memories created during that time. It’s through this journey that I met my husband, explored new corners of the world, and formed lasting bonds with some of my closest friends.
Q: What inspired you to transition from Broadway to the classroom?
While living in NYC with my husband, I was frequently on the road, performing in national tours of La Cage Aux Folles and Chicago. We often joked that once I got on Broadway and he secured a role at a top ad agency, life would be perfect.
Eventually, both dreams came true, but we found ourselves like passing ships in the night—my husband working long hours while I was already at the theater when he got home. Our only opportunity for dinner together was on Mondays. I missed weddings, family vacations, and the simple joys of life on weekends. This led us to make a significant change; we both quit our jobs, packed up, and relocated to Atlanta. This decision turned out to be the best one we ever made.
Once in Atlanta, I began teaching dance classes at a local studio, where I discovered my passion for working with children and helping them learn. I assumed an assistant teaching role at the Atlanta Speech School, focusing on preschool-age children. I loved being back in the educational environment and was motivated to learn as much as I could about teaching, particularly in special education. I applied to Teach for America, was accepted, and soon began teaching 1st grade while pursuing my master’s degree in special education.
Q: What do you teach now, and what drew you to it?
I currently serve as a special education teacher, working with 4th and 5th graders in a small-group setting focused on ELA and math. I absolutely love this role! The small group dynamic allows me to get to know my students deeply. Many of them I have taught for several years, and it is incredibly rewarding to witness their growth over time.
There’s no greater joy than helping a child build their confidence and experiencing those “light bulb moments” when they grasp a new concept. Teaching special education is never dull; my students keep me engaged and often laughing. It’s a genuinely fun experience every day!
Q: What skills from Broadway translate into your classroom?
Teaching is essentially like performing in a show every day! I utilize numerous skills I acquired during my performing days in my classroom. Engaging my students, improvising when necessary, storytelling while reading or discussing historical events, and modeling confidence in front of an audience are just a few examples. I also love to incorporate singing and dancing into my lessons, much to my 4th and 5th graders’ chagrin! Each year, I put on a play with my students, which further enriches their learning experience.
Q: You create fun dances and engaging content on Instagram—what’s the inspiration behind that?
My husband encouraged me for years to start a social media account, but I always hesitated. However, when COVID hit, I decided to give it a shot.
I initially thought I would share tips on navigating the special education system and strategies for teaching reading. Unfortunately, those posts weren’t gaining much traction. Then I created a lighthearted, humorous video, which quickly became popular. I realized how much more enjoyable it was to make that kind of content, so I continued down that path. I’m so grateful I did!
This journey has introduced me to a vibrant community of fellow teachers, parents, and education enthusiasts. My aim with each post or reel is to bring joy to someone’s day or let them know they’re not alone in their challenges.
Q: Are you still involved in performing today?
I have just begun auditioning again! My first audition was a bit shaky, but I’m gradually regaining my confidence. I’ve continued to take dance classes, which I absolutely love, and I still teach dance classes occasionally. I hope to participate in a show or two in 2026. Finding time as a full-time teacher and a mother of two can be challenging, but I believe that pursuing what you love and what brings you joy is always worth it.
Q: Why teaching?
I remain in the classroom because of the kids. The relationships I build with my students are incredibly meaningful to me. I’ve always loved school, and I firmly believe that education is the key to success, with every child deserving a quality and meaningful education.
Teaching allows me to enjoy the best of both worlds: it’s a fulfilling career that brings me immense joy, while also enabling me to prioritize my family and other important aspects of my life.
Q: What has been the biggest challenge or surprise in your transition from stage to school?
Teaching has proven to be the hardest endeavor I’ve ever undertaken. Nothing can truly prepare you for the emotional toll and stress that comes with the profession. While managing behaviors can be challenging, the most difficult aspect for me is witnessing students who arrive at school hungry, live in poverty, or are so far behind academically that no amount of effort may bridge that gap.
As educators, we become deeply invested in our students, and it’s tough to accept that we can’t control everything. Teaching has tested my determination, patience, and self-confidence more than any performance ever did.
Q: What advice would you give to someone with a creative background who is considering teaching?
I would encourage them to recognize that teaching will likely come naturally to them. They will excel at keeping their students engaged and entertained. Additionally, I recommend being open to learning from experienced teachers. Teaching encompasses so much more than merely presenting information to a class; it involves behavior management, knowing when to push students and when to step back, conflict resolution, and multitasking in a highly demanding environment.
Q: Anything else you’d like readers to know?
People often ask me why I would leave a successful Broadway career to become a teacher. To many, it may seem like a step backward. However, it’s important to acknowledge that our dreams can evolve, and sometimes they should. We’re often encouraged to “dream big,” but we aren’t always prepared for the complexities that come with achieving those dreams.
I will never regret pursuing my dream of performing on Broadway, and I take immense pride in that accomplishment. However, as we grow and change, so do our priorities and aspirations. I am genuinely happy living out this second dream of being a teacher, a family member, and contributing to the growth of the next generation.
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