From Courtroom to Classroom: How CNM Is Helping This Student Launch a Second Career

For two decades, Brigitte Thomas helped families and children navigate the legal system as an attorney. Now she’s shifting her focus to helping students succeed in the classroom. 

“Being a teacher was always in the back of my mind, and when I became a mom, I needed to make a career change,” she says. “After a few months substituting, I knew teaching was the path for me.” 

In the Teacher Licensure Program Brigitte is learning about curriculum development and classroom management strategies. She will also complete student teaching hours. At the end of the program, she will qualify to apply for her Alternative Level 1 license.  

Brigitte plans to use her new qualifications to teach social studies to middle or high school students. 

“Along with my law degree, I’ve studied English and anthropology so social studies is a great combination of those subjects,” she says. “I will be able to teach grades 6-12, but I hope to teach middle schoolers because I love that they are still learning about who they are and what interests them.”  

As a returning student, Brigitte credits CNM’s instructors with helping her find her footing.  

“All of my instructors have been amazing, especially as I’ve learned new technology for my online classes,” she says. “I'm grateful for their guidance and expertise, and I feel like I’m gaining new skills all the time.” 

Brigitte will complete the Teacher Licensure Program in May 2027 and is looking forward to entering the classroom.  

For others considering a career change, she has some advice. 

“My best advice is to trust your gut, take the leap, and know that CNM has instructors and programs you can count on,” she says.