Meet Dr. Manny

“Why I Wrote the Book”

If you’re an educator who loves the classroom but keeps wondering, “Is there more for me beyond this?”—you’re not alone.

I’ve lived that question. I know what it feels like to give your all to students and still come up short financially, to want to grow without walking away from your purpose. I didn’t write this book because I have all the answers—I wrote it because I’ve been where you are.

Whether you're looking to earn extra income, explore the corporate or nonprofit world, or finally bet on yourself and start that business idea—you deserve a real roadmap.

Breaking the Bell™ is that guide. It’s everything I wish someone had handed me when I was figuring it out.

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, fueled 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.

Our Mission

At Breaking the Bell™, our mission is to help educators see what’s possible beyond the classroom—through real stories, proven strategies, and a roadmap shaped by those who’ve already made the leap. Whether it’s starting a side hustle, stepping into the private sector, or building something of your own, we offer guidance grounded in experience—not theory—to help you turn the page toward freedom, fulfillment, and financial stability.

Entrepreneurship from an educator’s perspective

If you love teaching but feel pulled toward something more—something that gives you both purpose and possibility—you’re not the only one. I’ve been in that exact place.

Breaking the Bell™ grew out of my own search for financial stability, freedom, and fulfillment beyond the walls of a school building. It’s not about abandoning your identity as an educator—it’s about expanding it. Whether you're dreaming of a side hustle, eyeing a role in the private or nonprofit sector, or building something entirely your own, this book offers real-world insight and encouragement to help you move forward—on your terms.

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