I always thought I wanted to be a banker but you have to trust what your heart says, not what your brain says.
Despite having a successful career in banking, Sandi Telless, ’02, knew it wasn’t her true calling.
“At age 40, I quit my banking job to go back to school to be a teacher,” she said. “It was the best decision of my life.”
Telless chose Bridgewater State University to continue her education, earning a degree in early elementary and physical education. Since then, she has served as a beloved kindergarten teacher for 20 years at Central School in East Bridgewater.
She approaches teaching from a place of love, making sure to engage with and get to know every student. And Telless has fun while doing it. Her colleagues often see her dancing in the halls and during classroom dance parties, and handing out warm embraces during “Free Hug Fridays.”
“I always try to be myself, so my kids know it’s okay to be yourself. I don’t worry about what other people are doing. I’m animated in my classroom, and have been known to ride a unicycle,” she said. “I just really enjoy every moment I get to work with the kids.”
Central School Principal Kate Byrne said Telless is “the heart of our kindergarten program and cornerstone of the East Bridgewater community.”
“She believes deeply in inclusivity, play-based learning, and the power of joy,” Bryne said. “Her commitment to creating a welcoming environment ensures that every child feels seen, valued, and celebrated.”
Telless has also continued to work with BSU over the years. She is an active member of the Professional Development School Partnership and has taken countless BSU student teachers under her wing.
“She has proudly represented her alma mater while helping to prepare and mentor future educators,” Bryne said. “Her leadership reflects the very best of Bridgewater State’s values.”
Telless was recently honored with the 2026 Bridgewater State University Alumni Educator Award.
According to Tracy Charbonnier, assistant director of Education and Health Sciences Outreach, each state university selects one alumni educator for the award annually. Following a nomination process, the College of Education and Health Sciences selected Telless.
“Sandi is such a fantastic person,” Charbonnier said.
She noted that Telless has partnered with BSU in many ways, including working with Elementary Education faculty to host BSU block/cluster students, who taught reading to kindergarten students. She has also participated in Project EarthView, a program offered through the Center for the Advancement of STEM Education that uses giant inflatable globes and interactive floor maps to create hands-on geography learning experiences for students.
Telless is modest about the praise and the award.
“I’m speechless,” she said. “It means so much to be recognized by the school.”
More importantly, she wants to continue teaching and has no doubts about her decision to switch gears mid-career.
“I always thought I wanted to be a banker,” she said, “but you have to trust what your heart says, not what your brain says.”
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