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23Dec

A Doctorate in the Kindergarten Classroom: The Story of Dr. Nubia Salazar 

It is often said that teaching young children requires the most skill, patience, and dedication. In Richland One, South Carolina, a group of kindergarten students is currently learning from an educator who brings a lifetime of expertise to their classroom. 

We are honored to spotlight Dr. Nubia Elena Salazar Ramos, a highly accomplished educator from México who is redefining what early childhood education looks like through cultural immersion. 

A Distinguished Career 

Nubia is not just a teacher; she is a master of her craft. Before arriving in the U.S., she dedicated 25 years to education in her home country of Mexico. Her academic credentials are equally impressive: she holds a Doctorate from the Escuela Normal Superior de Ciudad Madero Tamaulipas and notes that she has completed five different career paths/degrees to support her practice. 

Driven by a desire to grow professionally and experience a multicultural environment , Nubia brought this wealth of knowledge to South Carolina. 

The Challenge of Immersion 

Teaching kindergarten is a challenge in itself, but Nubia takes it a step further. She is a Spanish immersion teacher, meaning she teaches subjects like Science and Mathematics entirely in a second language. 

Her goal is to ensure students don’t just memorize words, but actually learn to express themselves and understand complex concepts in Spanish. To achieve this, she uses an immersive approach: even when students don’t understand initially, she prioritizes Spanish instruction to meet the learning objective. 

The results are already showing. Her students are successfully learning numbers and are beginning to understand instructions and vocabulary in Spanish. 

Blending Methodologies 

Nubia’s classroom is a blend of structure and exploration. She utilizes TPR (Total Physical Response) activities, a method that connects language with physical movement, which is essential for young learners. 

However, she also brings sophisticated pedagogical strategies from Mexico. She focuses on autonomous learning and “questioning,” helping students build upon their prior knowledge. She believes this approach is essential for creating “meaningful and lifelong learning”. By implementing order and discipline exercises similar to those used in Mexico, she balances classroom management with student independence. 

Celebrating Culture  

Beyond the academics, Nubia ensures that culture is at the heart of her classroom. She recently organized a parade to share the traditions of Mexico and Colombia with her school community. 

For Nubia, the exchange is mutual. She enjoys the diversity of the U.S. school system, noting how valuable it has been to witness presentations from other Latin American teachers and learn about their unique cultures. 

A Goal of Excellence  

Nubia’s journey is defined by a constant drive for improvement. She recognizes the vast resources and materials available in her U.S. district and plans to use them to enrich her students’ knowledge. Her personal goal for the coming years is simple but ambitious: to develop new skills and become “one of the best teachers”. 

Dr. Nubia Salazar is proof that the J-1 program brings world-class talent to U.S. schools, enriching the lives of students through experience, culture, and academic excellence. 

 

22Dec

How to Validate Your Teaching Degree in the USA

You have your “Licenciatura en Educación” from Peru, or your “Título de Maestro” from México. You know you are qualified, but how does a school district in the United States know that? 

The answer is a “Credential Evaluation.” This is one of the most critical steps in the J-1 Teacher Program, and IAG is here to break it down for you. 
 

  1.  

What is a Credential Evaluation?

It is an official report created by a specialized agency in the U.S. This report analyzes your foreign university education (your transcripts and your diploma) and “translates” it into its American academic equivalent. 

For example, the report will officially certify that your “Licenciatura en Educación Primaria” is the academic equivalent of a “U.S. Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education.” 

 

Why is This Evaluation Necessary?  

This report is mandatory for three fundamental reasons: 

  • J-1 Visa Program: The U.S. Department of State requires this report to prove that you meet the educational requirements to participate as an exchange visitor. 
  • School Placement: U.S. schools cannot accept your participation without it. They need this report to verify that you are qualified to teach your specific subject area as part of the program. 
  • Stipend Determination: The report (specifically a “Course-by Course” evaluation) is used by the school district to determine your stipend level, ensuring you receive fair compensation based on your education level. 
 

How to Obtain Your Credential Evaluation  

You cannot perform this evaluation yourself. You must use a company that is a member of NACES (National Association of Credential Evaluation Services). 

At IAG, we guide our candidates through the entire process: 

  • Choose the Right Report: This is crucial. You will almost always need a “Course-by Course” or “Detailed” evaluation, not just a “Document-by-Document” one. The school district needs to see every subject you completed. 
  • Gather Your Documents: You will need your official academic transcripts (the list of all subjects and grades) and your diploma (proof of graduation). 
  • Follow the Agency’s Process: Each agency has specific rules regarding how documents must be submitted. 
  • Wait for the Report: The process can take several weeks, so it is important to follow your IAG advisor’s guidance on whe to start.

Connecting Your Talent with U.S. Classrooms  

We understand that this process can seem challenging, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. As an International Alliance Group (IAG) candidate, our team is here to guide you step-by-step and advise you on: 

  • Which agency to use. 
  • Which specific report to order. 
  • When to start the process so it doesn’t delay your application. 

This evaluation is the key that unlocks the door to your career in the U.S. 

Have questions about your degree or the J-1 process? Explore the J-1 Visa requirements at the link.

  •  
 
Ready to become a cultural ambassador? Review the requirements here
16Dec

Songs, Stories, and Success: Krizel Abat’s Classroom Transformation  

True professional growth often requires stepping into the unknown. For educators in the J-1 cultural exchange program, this means leaving behind the familiar to embrace a completely new environment, educational system, and community. 

This courage to step out of one’s comfort zone defines Krizel Abat, an experienced educator from the Philippines who is currently transforming her 1st-grade classroom in Vallejo, California.  

A Wealth of Experience

Before arriving in the U.S., Krizel had already established herself as a dedicated leader in education. With nine years of teaching experience in her home country, she holds not only a Bachelor of Elementary Education but also a Master of Arts in Educational Management.  

She joined the exchange program with a clear mission: to challenge herself, experience a multicultural classroom, and bring new opportunities to her students while sharing the richness of her own culture.

Bringing Rhythm to the Classroom 

One of the most beautiful aspects of cultural exchange is seeing how different teaching traditions can blend to create something new. 

In her U.S. classroom, Krizel realized that her students needed more than just standard instruction they needed engagement. Drawing on her roots in the Philippines, she introduced songs, chants, and traditional storytelling into her daily lessons for reading and math.  

These techniques did more than just make learning fun; they helped build vocabulary and comprehension in a way that resonated with her 1st graders. Krizel has also shared her heritage by introducing her students to Filipino food, traditional clothing, and dance, with plans to teach them traditional games this year.

Learning from the U.S. System 

The exchange of knowledge goes both ways. While Krizel brought her creative strategies to California, she has also gained profound insights from the U.S. education system. 

She discovered a school culture that deeply values student voice, independence, and creativity. Seeing how students are encouraged to express their opinions and think critically has inspired her to become more flexible and innovative in her own approach. She has also embraced the importance of positive reinforcement and inclusivity in the classroom.

A Message of Growth 

Reflecting on her journey, Krizel believes that cultural exchange is about more than just teaching— is about shaping who we are as people. 

“Living and teaching in the U.S. has been an eye opening experience,” she shares. “I’ve learned so much, not just about education, but about different ways of thinking… It hasn’t always been easy, but every challenge has been a chance to grow.”  

Krizel’s story is a powerful reminder that when educators connect across borders, they build a more empathetic, diverse, and interconnected world for the next generation. 

Krizel’s experience proves that cultural exchange is the key to true professional growth. Are you ready to take your teaching career to the next level in the United States? Join International Alliance Group‘s exchange program. Click here to apply and take the first step toward your global transformation.

15Dec

What English Proficiency Level Do I Need for the J-1 Teacher Visa? 

One of the most frequently asked questions we receive is: “Do I need a TOEFL or IELTS exam to qualify for the J-1 visa?” The short answer is: not necessarily. However, you must be able to demonstrate that you possess advanced English proficiency (Level B2/ Upper Intermediate or higher). Let’s break down what the U.S. government actually demands and how we handle this process at International Alliance Group (IAG). 

What Does the U.S. Department of State Require?

The J-1 visa is a cultural exchange program,

and the U.S. Department of State requires 

that all participants possess sufficient 

proficiency in the English language to 

function effectively on a day-to-day basis. 

This includes the ability to: 

  • Teach with clarity in the classroom. 
  • Communicate effectively with principals, coordinators, and other faculty members. 
  • Speak with parents during conferences. 
  • Actively participate in school events. 

IAG accepts results from the following 

exams (issued within the last 2 years): 

  • Official CBEST 
  • ACTFL (Level: Intermediate High or higher) 
  • TOEFL iBT (Minimum scores: Reading 18, Listening 17, Speaking 20, Writing 17) 
  • Cambridge English Assessment (Scaled score of B2 or higher)

Teaching certifications such as TEFL or 

TESOL do not meet this language 

proficiency requirement. 

 

Don’t have one of these? If you do not 

have one of the exams listed above, you 

can take the free online EFSET exam 

(90 minutes / 4 skill test) to meet our initial 

requirement. It allows you to test your 

reading, listening, writing, and speaking 

skills from the comfort of your home. 

Simply click here to take the exam and 

remember to save your certificate to 

include it in your application.

 

How IAG Verifies 

Your English Level

At IAG, we believe the best way to assess 

your professional fluency is by speaking 

with you. 

Regardless of the exam you submit, your 

level will be evaluated during the 

interview with our team. 

This interview is conducted 100% in English and is essential to move forward in the process. 

What do we look for in this interview? 

We need to confirm that you can thrive in 

a professional U.S. school environment. 

We listen for your ability to: 

  • Discuss Complex Topics: Can you fluently discuss your teaching philosophy, classroom management strategies, and lesson planning ideas? 
  • Understand Nuances: Will you be able to fully grasp the questions asked by school principals during your hiring interviews? 
  • Collaborate Effectively: Can you communicate clearly and professionally with colleagues, parents, and administrators? 
 

Don’t Let the Fear of an Exam Hold You 

Back! The true requirement is genuine, 

advanced English fluency. If you are a 

qualified teacher who can confidently lead a

classroom and collaborate with colleagues

in English, we want to talk to you. 

Ready to demonstrate your fluency? 

Start your application with IAG today, and 

our team will guide you through the first 

step: the interview! 

 

Ready to become a cultural ambassador? Review the requirements here
09Dec

A Fresh Perspective: How International Exchange Enriches the Math Classroom 

When educators from around the world enter U.S. classrooms, they bring more than just lesson plans; they bring fresh perspectives, rich traditions, and a passion for shaping the future. 

Today, we are proud to spotlight Marjorie Fabian Colón,a dynamic educator from the Dominican Republic who is currently making a profound impact in Florida. 

A Foundation of Excellence

Marjorie is a lifelong learner dedicated to the art of teaching. Before joining the exchange program, she spent five years teaching in the Dominican Republic—both in the public sector and private schools. Her academic background is nothing short of impressive. Marjorie holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics with a focus on Secondary Education, a Master’s in STEM Didactics, and a Master’s in Business Administration. She is currently taking her expertise to the next level by pursuing a Doctorate in Virtual Education with a concentration in Artificial Intelligence. 

The Power of Fresh Perspectives

One of the core values of the J-1 visa program is the two-way exchange of knowledge. Marjorie’s experience perfectly illustrates this. Upon arriving in the U.S., she noticed that students relied heavily on digital tools, often skipping the step of writing down problems or performing mental calculations. Drawing from her teaching methods in the Dominican Republic, Marjorie introduced a new strategy: encouraging students to write out their work and practice mental math. 

The result? Students are strengthening their computational skills and reducing their dependence on calculators. As Marjorie notes, international teachers bring “fresh” experiences that engage students in different ways, helping them develop critical thinking skills they might not otherwise be exposed to. 

Cultural Exchange in Action

The exchange isn’t just academic—it is deeply cultural. Marjorie has embraced the opportunity to share her Dominican heritage with her students, introducing them to her country’s gastronomy and the joyful rhythms of merengue- even teaching them how to dance!. 

In return, Marjorie has been immersed in American traditions. She was fascinated by the distinct seasonal celebrations in the U.S., such as the use of pumpkins and autumn leaves for Halloween and Thanksgiving—a contrast to her home country, where Christmas decorations often appear as early as September. She has also gained an appreciation for the digital efficiency of U.S. schools, noting how online systems for grading and attendance streamline communication and organization. 

Impacting Lives

For Marjorie, the most rewarding part of this journey has been witnessing the personal growth of her students. She teaches in a multicultural classroom where many students are English Language Learners (ELLs). Through her guidance, she has seen students who started the year with failing grades raise their performance significantly, overcoming their fear of mathematics. Perhaps even more touching is seeing students who were once shy and isolated grow into confident individuals who voluntarily help their struggling classmates. 

A Vision for the Future

Marjorie’s journey is a testament to the ripple effect of cultural exchange. Her goal is to take the knowledge, discipline, and digital strategies she has learned in the U.S. back to the Dominican Republic. She plans to use her experience to guide other teachers and improve educational processes in her home country. 

Marjorie’s story reminds us that cultural exchange enriches the learning environment, prepares students for a diverse world, and creates bonds that transcend borders. 

Start your Pre-Application HERE!

 

 

08Dec

5 Key Requirements to Teach in the USA 

Turn your vocation into an international adventure. If your goal is to teach in U.S. classrooms and enrich your professional profile by sharing your culture, the J-1 Teacher Program may be the perfect path for you.
At International Alliance Group (IAG), we don’t just show you the way — we guide you step by step to make it a reality.

The J-1 Teacher Program is a cultural exchange initiative of the U.S. Department of State designed to bring exceptional international educators into American classrooms.
But before you start packing your bags, there are several mandatory requirements you must meet.

J-1 VISA Requirements for Teachers

Below is the official list of requirements you must meet — with no exceptions — to qualify for the program and to be considered by a designated sponsor.

1. Education: A University Degree 

You must hold a university degree equivalent to a U.S. Bachelor’s degree, either in Education or in the subject you intend to teach (Social Studies, Natural Sciences, Special Education, Art, etc.).

How do you prove it?
You will need a Foreign Credential Evaluation (FCE), an official report that validates academic degrees obtained outside the U.S. Since American school districts and Departments of Education cannot interpret foreign academic transcripts on their own, this evaluation is required to recognize your degree formally.

2. Experience: 2+ Years of Full-Time Teaching

U.S. Department of State regulations require every J-1 Teacher applicant to have a minimum of two years (24 months) of full-time teaching experience.

Before IAG can present your candidacy to a school district, you must demonstrate that you have led a full-time classroom for at least 24 months after completing your university degree.

Important:
Student teaching, volunteering, part-time work, tutoring, or similar activities do not count toward this requirement. It must be full-time, paid, professional teaching experience.

The J-1 program seeks teachers with:

  • Classroom Management Skills: U.S. schools need educators who already understand student dynamics and can lead a classroom confidently.

  • Proven Adaptability: Teachers with experience have already navigated real challenges—behavior issues, parent meetings, curriculum adjustments, etc.

  • Professional Maturity: Schools are looking for colleagues who can contribute from day one.

3. English Level: Advanced Fluency (B2/C1)

You must speak, read, and write English at an advanced level.
All interviews, classroom instruction, and professional interactions will be entirely in English.

How is it evaluated?
You will participate in multiple interviews with IAG and U.S. school principals, all in English.

Additionally, you must present one official exam, such as:

  • ACTFL: Intermediate High or higher

  • TOEFL iBT: Minimum scores — Reading 18, Listening 17, Speaking 20, Writing 17

  • Cambridge English: Scaled score B2 or higher

  • CBEST: Official passing score

Important: TEFL or TESOL certificates do NOT meet the English proficiency requirement.

If you do not have an exam yet, IAG will provide you with a free 90-minute EFSET test evaluating all four skills.

4. Current Employment: Be an Active Teacher 

To qualify for this visa category, you must currently be working as a teacher in your home country, or have recent full-time experience if you have just completed a postgraduate degree.

Applicants must provide an official letter or certificate of employment verifying their full-time teaching position.

5. Have a Designated Sponsor

This is one of the most essential requirements.
You cannot apply for a J-1 visa independently — you must be accepted and sponsored by an organization designated by the U.S. Department of State.

Your sponsor is responsible for:

  • Verifying all your documents

  • Connecting you with U.S. school districts

  • Issuing the DS-2019 (the document required for your visa appointment)

  • Providing support, insurance, and guidance before and during your cultural exchange period

Do you meet the requirements?

If you read this list and said “Yes!” to all items, your journey could begin today.
The J-1 Teacher Program is a transformative opportunity that allows you to grow professionally, experience U.S. classrooms, and serve as a cultural ambassador.

Ready to take the next step? Apply today with International Alliance Group (IAG) and let our team help you start your cultural exchange experience in the United States.

 

 

 

Start your journey today. Explore the J-1 Visa requirements
02Dec

Excellence in Action: Bringing Innovative Strategies from the Philippines to the U.S.

At International Alliance Group, we believe that bringing international teachers to the U.S. does more than just educate students – it opens doors to global understanding. Today, we are spotlighting Angela Claire Costoy, a 5th grade Language Arts teacher from the Philippines whose journey is a perfect example of the power of cultural exchange.

A wealth of experience

Angela came to the U.S. with an impressive background. With a Bachelor’s in Mass Communication and 17 years of teaching experience in her home country, she is currently a candidate for a Master of Arts in Education. Her motivation to teach in the U.S. was driven by a desire to experience a multicultural classroom and bring new innovative strategies back to her colleagues in the Philippines.

Finding Common Ground: From the Philippines to Saint Labre

Angela is currently teaching at the Saint Labre Indian Catholic School. While moving to a new country is a major adjustment, Angela found a unique and heartwarming connection between her own culture and the community she now serves.

She discovered profound similarities between Filipino history and the history of Native Americans. In her first local cultural report, she compared heroes from both cultures, highlighting how they fought for the same causes: freedom, dignity, and the preservation of identity.

This connection sparked a beautiful exchange of traditions:

  • Cultural Celebrations: Angela’s community has embraced Filipino culture, showing deep appreciation for their songs, dances, and language.
  • A Taste of Home: The locals have developed a love for Filipino food, particularly pancit (noodles).
  • Sharing Play: At the school’s Fall Carnival, Angela set up a booth showcasing traditional Filipino games like Sungka and Piko (hopscotch), which was a hit with both kids and adults.

Excellence in the Classroom

Beyond cultural exchange, Angela has made a significant academic impact. Her dynamic teaching style and passion for reading have yielded tangible results:

  • Academic Growth: Her 5th-grade class was a consistent top achiever in MAP test scores for the 2024-2025 school year.
  • Love for Reading: By sharing books she enjoys and reading with emotion, she has helped her students develop a genuine love for reading, reflected in their growing test scores.
  • Teacher Leadership: Angela’s lesson plan format was showcased by the Middle School’s instructional coach as a model for other teachers to adapt.

Beyond the Books: Music & Communication

Angela’s talents extend outside the classroom walls. Back in the Philippines, she served as a speech trainer, and in the U.S., she has been recognized for her clear diction and ability to model effective spoken English. She even partners with the high school instructional coach to help other Filipino teachers improve their spoken English.

She also serves as the lead singer in the school’s music ministry, coaching students to sing in liturgies—something the Ministry Director noted had never been done before.

Angela’s story reminds us that international teachers do not just teach subjects; they build character, foster community, and help students appreciate the beauty in diversity.

Inspired by Angela’s story? Your unique talents and culture have the power to transform lives in U.S. classrooms. Don’t let your skills stay just a dream; the world needs passionate educators like you to make a difference.

Apply today HERE and start your international journey with IAG!

01Dec

What is a J-1 Visa Sponsor for Teachers? Everything You Need to Know 

If you’ve been researching how to teach in the USA, you’ve probably come across the term “J-1 Sponsor.” 

And one of the most common questions teachers ask is: Is the sponsor the U.S. government? The school district? An agency? 

The reality is simple: a J-1 Visa Sponsor is the only type of organization authorized by the U.S. Department of State to support your participation in the Teacher Exchange Program, as defined through the official BridgeUSA Teacher Program guidelines. 

What is a J-1 VISA Sponsor?

A J-1Visa Sponsor is an organization formally  designated by the U.S. Department of State to  administer cultural exchange programs under the BridgeUSA framework. 
One of the sponsor’s core functions is issuing Form DS-2019 (Certificate of Eligibility), which is required to schedule a visa interview and legally participate in the program. 
 

Sponsor vs. Host School: Understanding the Difference

Many applicants are unsure about the roles involved in the process. Here’s the clear distinction: 

Host School (School District) 

  • Reviews your profile 
  • Conducts interviews 
  • Makes all selection decisions 
  • Manages your daily professional responsibilities 
  • Provides compensation and supervision during your exchange 

Sponsor (IAG) 

As your designated sponsor, IAG: 

  • Verifies your program eligibility 
  • Issues your DS-2019 
  • Provides ongoing program guidance 
  • Ensures compliance with all BridgeUSA regulations 
  • Supports your cultural exchange throughout your stay 

 

 

Why Choose IAG as Your Designated J-1 Sponsor?

 

 At International Alliance Group, we believe sponsorship means more than issuing documents. Our approach centers on support, cultural exchange, and transparency, always aligned with the expectations set by the U.S. Department of State.  

  1. Collaboration With Districts Interested in Cultural Exchange 

IAG collaborates with U.S. districts that participate in the BridgeUSA Teacher Program. 
While host schools make all hiring decisions, IAG supports the overall process by: 

  • Confirming your eligibility 
  • Sharing your profile with districts engaged in cultural exchange 
  • Providing clarity on each step you will go through 
  • Helping you understand program expectations 
  1. Complete Support Throughout Your Cultural Exchange Journey 

All U.S. sponsors must meet strict Department of State regulations, including monitoring and safety procedures under BridgeUSA. 

IAG’s support includes: 

✔ Guidance on Program Requirements 

We help you understand credential evaluations, required documents, and the expectations of the U.S. classroom environment. 

✔ Health & Safety Oversight 

All participants must hold insurance that meets federal regulations — and IAG ensures this requirement is met. 

✔ Monthly Check-ins & 24/7 Support 

BridgeUSA requires sponsors to conduct monthly participant check-ins. IAG also maintains a 24/7 emergency support line to assist teachers at any moment. 

  1. A Global Community of Inspiring Educators 

Teachers who join IAG become part of a diverse and supportive international network of educators making meaningful contributions across the U.S. 

We highlight inspiring success stories such as: 

Ready to Start Your Application? 

Take the first step toward your teaching exchange experience in the United States with a sponsor committed to your success. 

Apply HERE Today! 

 

28Nov

Celebrating Heritage Day: The Heart of J-1 Exchange 

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.” 

Bringing the World into the Classroom

Seeing Mr. Escoto and his colleagues celebrate their roots reminds us why the J-1 program is so valuable. You aren’t just bringing academic knowledge to the U.S.; you are bringing your history, your music, your language, and your joy. You are teaching American students that the world is a big, diverse, and beautiful place. 

At International Alliance Group (IAG), we are incredibly proud to see how schools like Yearling Middle School not only hire our teachers but embrace them, celebrate them, and create spaces for them to shine. 

Can you see yourself sharing your culture in a U.S. school next year? Apply Today HERE and Start Your Journey with IAG

11Nov

IAG Teacher Honored: From Nicaragua to Award-Winning Educator

When Isaura Mayeli Medina Mendoza left her home in Nicaragua to teach 5th grade in Arizona, her goal was simple: “I wanted to learn from new experiences, share my own culture, and grow professionally.”

Just one year later, she’s done all that and more. Isaura, an IAG exchange educator at Glendale Elementary School District, was honored with the Mosaic Staff Award for her outstanding effort in creating an inclusive and culturally responsive classroom.

This recognition is a powerful testament to her philosophy. For Isaura, teaching isn’t just about academics; it’s about building a space of trust. “One of the most rewarding things I’ve noticed is that my students feel comfortable and confident in my classroom,” she shares. “They appreciate my friendly approach and the way I explain topics in a simple and clear way. It’s wonderful to see how this helps them stay engaged.”

A Two-Way Street of Cultural Exchange

Coming from Nicaragua with 5 years of teaching experience, Isaura was eager to share her heritage. She has introduced her 5th-grade students to Nicaraguan Independence Day, traditional foods, and cultural events like La Purísima.

“I also incorporate music and art from my country into lessons,” she explains, “to help students understand that language and culture are deeply connected.”

The most rewarding part? “Seeing my students’ genuine curiosity about Nicaragua,” Isaura says. “When they ask thoughtful questions about my country and make connections between our cultures, I can see how teaching goes beyond academics—it becomes an opportunity to build cultural awareness, respect, and understanding.”

But the exchange, as she discovered, is a two-way street. “One of the most enriching cultural experiences I’ve discovered in the U.S. is how diversity is celebrated,” she says. “I’ve learned about traditions such as Thanksgiving and Halloween, and I’ve enjoyed seeing how schools encourage inclusion and respect for different cultures. These experiences have broadened my perspective.”

Adapting and Thriving

The transition wasn’t without its challenges. “The most challenging part,” Isaura admits, “has been adjusting to the differences in classroom culture… Students are encouraged to be very independent and expressive, which required me to adapt my teaching style to foster open discussions and critical thinking.”

She adapted with grace, and her new community took notice. Her administrators and colleagues praise her for being “receptive, collaborative, and always looking for ways to strengthen” her teaching.

This collaborative spirit is one of her greatest contributions. “I bring teaching strategies from Nicaragua into my U.S. classroom, including the use of music, games, and stories,” she says. “Colleagues have seen how effective these approaches are and have adopted similar techniques, creating a more interactive and culturally aware learning environment.”

As Isaura plans for her future—which includes earning a Master’s degree in the U.S.—she reflects on the value of programs like this. When asked what message she’d share with a school district leader, her answer is clear:

“Cultural exchange is an essential part of preparing students for a global society. When teachers from different countries bring their traditions, perspectives, and teaching styles into the classroom, students gain a deeper appreciation for diversity, develop critical thinking, and become more open-minded.”

We are incredibly proud to have Isaura Medina as part of the IAG family!

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