Being a J-1 Exchange Teacher is about more than just teaching Math or Science; it is about leaving a lasting mark on your students’ hearts by sharing who you are. There is no better example of this than the recent Heritage Day celebration at Yearling Middle School (YMS) in Okeechobee, Florida.
This school—home to our outstanding IAG teacher and current 2025-2026 Teacher of the Year, Mr. Jhamcarlos Escoto Reyes—dedicated yesterday to celebrating the vibrant diversity that international teachers have brought to its hallways.
The Impact of International Teachers
Dr. McCoy, the Principal of YMS, shared the story of how this tradition was born and the profound impact it has had on the school community. Interestingly, “Heritage Day” didn’t exist five years ago; it was created specifically as a response to the arrival of teachers like you.
“Heritage Day at Yearling Middle School began about four years ago. We have been so fortunate to have a great number of exchange teachers at one time. We had 14 exchange teachers at our school at one time, and they have just brought so much to our school. We wanted to celebrate that,” Dr. McCoy explained.
What started as an initiative for international teachers to share their flags and traditions quickly turned into a phenomenon that spread throughout the entire school.
“Our American teachers have really bought in. So our teachers who are of Mexican heritage now celebrate. We have teachers who have done time in Japan, and they are celebrating with us. It is a phenomenal time for our school,” the Principal added.
Authentic Connections
This day is the perfect opportunity to break down academic barriers and connect with their students on a human level.
As Dr. McCoy points out, the daily grind in the classroom sometimes leaves little time to share personal stories. But Heritage Day changes that:
“It’s a time for our kids to really get to know their teachers and the adults of this building in a way that they don’t get to know them in the classroom… Here they can let loose. They can be themselves, and they can really celebrate who they are and where they come from. I love Heritage Day at YMS.”
Seeing Mr. Escoto and his colleagues celebrate their heritage highlights the true value of the J-1 Teacher Exchange Program. Participants contribute more than their educational experience—they share their history, music, language, traditions, and perspectives. Through these meaningful cultural connections, students gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity and richness of the world around them.
Can you see yourself sharing your culture in a U.S. school next year? Apply Today HERE and Start Your Journey with IAG
One Reply to “Celebrating Heritage Day: The Heart of J-1 Exchange ”
Sounds wonderful.congratulations to the teacher of the year.I can’t wait to join this family next year 2026
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