“Earn What you’re worth while doing what you love”

Dr. Manuel Ferrer shares his evolution from educator to entrepreneur—alongside real stories of other teachers who broke free from the system—to offer a roadmap for those ready to turn their classroom skills into new career paths.

What is Breaking the BellTM?

Breaking the Bell™ is a call to courage for educators ready to reimagine what’s possible beyond the classroom. Created by Dr. Manuel “Dr. Manny” Ferrer, it shares powerful stories, hard truths, and liberating insights from those who left the system—and found freedom on the other side.

Whether you're exploring a new path, building a side hustle, or questioning what’s next, Breaking the Bell™ offers perspective, encouragement, and a sense of community for your next chapter.

Your journey is supported through:

"Education saved my life.
Entrepreneurship set me free ."

Manuel "Dr. Manny" Ferrer, Ed.D.

Author, Breaking the Bell™ | Founder, The Next Chapter™

Dr. Manny’s Journey From
educator to Entrepreneur

1970's - 1980's

Early Life in Little Havana

Raised in the heart of Little Havana by his grandmother, Dr. Manny’s early years were shaped by instability, but not defeat. Amidst absent parents he became his own advocate, fuelled by grit, survival, and strategy.

1990’s

Education & Breakthrough

As a first-generation college graduate and recipient of the prestigious Chappie James Most Promising Teacher Scholarship, Dr. Manny returned home to teach—earning Rookie Teacher of the Year honors. Six years later, he was once again recognized as Teacher of the Year, solidifying his impact both in the classroom and in the community.

2000’s

Rising Star in Education

Dr. Manny’s influence extended beyond the classroom. After earning his second Teacher of the Year award, he stepped into administration. With a growing family, he began exploring the private sector of education and began building the foundation for something beyond the system.

2010’s

Entrepreneurial Growth & Hard Lessons

The leap into entrepreneurship was bold—and filled with challenges. From school district contracts to multi-million-dollar pivots, Dr. Manny navigated every win and setback with intention. Each lesson in leadership, loss, and scale moved him closer to the mission he couldn’t ignore: creating a better path for educators seeking more.

2020’s

Corporate Leadership & Major Milestones

After years of building small but impactful companies and stepping into executive leadership, Dr. Manny now leads with purpose at scale. From boardrooms to book launches, he’s using his platform to inspire a new wave of educators to think bigger. Breaking the Bell™ isn’t the final chapter—it’s the launchpad for those ready to reclaim their time, talent, and trajectory.

Hear from Manny on what this initiative means to him:

Triangle behind a mountain range made with structural grid like texture

Entrepreneurship from an educator's perspective

If you’re an educator who loves teaching but wants something more—you’re not alone. Dr. Manuel “Dr. Manny” Ferrer created Breaking the Bell™ to help fellow educators explore what’s next without losing who they are.

Whether you're looking to earn extra income through a side hustle, transition into the corporate or nonprofit world, or launch your own entrepreneurial journey, this book provides the guidance, tools, and strategies to help you move forward—with purpose and clarity.

Pre-Order the Book

testimonials

Manny blends grace and grit. Part Baryshnikov, part Mayweather. A passionate learner, skilled seller, and standout leader in edtech.
Gerald Flournoy
National Manager @ Hazel Health, Inc.
Manny gives 110% with heart and hustle, bringing energy, empathy, and sharp solutions to every challenge. A true relationship builder.
Erin Tyler
Director of Partnerships @ FullBloom
Manny truly cares about kids, offering valuable support to schools and students with disabilities. Clients consistently speak highly of him.
Julie Weatherly
Attorney @ Resolutions in Special Education, Inc.
Dr. Manny Ferrer leads with heart and impact, an educator at his core who puts students with special needs first, always.
Liliana Salazar
National Director for Special Education and Student Support @Academica
Manny is a visionary leader, humble, driven, and dependable - delivering lasting impact across education and business. Highly recommended for growth and results.
Dr. Cassandra Holifield
Education Innovator & Strategist
Manny blends grace and grit—part Baryshnikov, part Mayweather. A passionate learner, skilled seller, and standout leader in edtech.
Gerald Flournoy
National Manager @ Hazel Health, Inc.
Manny gives 110% with heart and hustle—bringing energy, empathy, and sharp solutions to every challenge. A true relationship builder.
Erin Tyler
Director of Partnerships @ FullBloom
Manny truly cares about kids—offering valuable support to schools and students with disabilities. Clients consistently speak highly of him.
Julie Weatherly
Attorney @ Resolutions in Special Education, Inc.
Dr. Manny Ferrer leads with heart and impact—an educator at his core who puts students with special needs first, always.
Liliana Salazar
National Director for Special Education and Student Support @Academica
Manny is a visionary leader—humble, driven, and dependable—delivering lasting impact across education and business. Highly recommended for growth and results.
Dr. Cassandra Holifield
Education Innovator & Strategist