With a PhD in Education and over 24 years of experience in her home country of Honduras , Alma Lizzeth Gómez Guevara is the definition of a lifelong educator. Driven by a desire to expand her international teaching experience and promote cultural exchange, Alma joined the International Alliance Group (IAG) to bring her expertise to the United States. Today, she serves as a 1st Grade Bilingual teacher in the San Antonio Independent School District (SAISD) in Texas.
Bringing the Heart of Honduras to San Antonio
For Alma, being a cultural ambassador goes far beyond the curriculum. She has transformed her classroom into a vibrant hub of Honduran heritage by:
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- Sharing Traditions: Introducing her students and colleagues to Independence Day celebrations, typical dances, and traditional attire.
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- A Taste of Home: Sharing the stories of iconic Honduran dishes like baleadas and tamales.
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- Folklore and Legends: Sharing fascinating legends from her hometown to teach values and spark the imagination of her 1st graders.
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- Global Pedagogy: Integrating music, storytelling, and visual movement—strategies rooted in her Honduran teaching background—to make lessons more engaging for her American students.
Recognized for Excellence: The TEA Master Teacher
Alma’s impact has not gone unnoticed. Her dedication to her students’ academic growth and language development led her to be recognized as a TEA Master Teacher in Texas. This prestigious designation reflects the significant progress her students have made in their confidence and problem-solving skills since she joined the district.
“Cultural exchange in education is an opportunity where everyone benefits—students, teachers, and the entire school community”.
Looking Toward the Future
While Alma is currently making a difference in the elementary classroom, her professional journey is far from over. Teaching in the U.S. is an incredible experience full of growth, learning, and cultural exchange that will be forever etched in your heart. Whether you are a PhD holder like Alma or a passionate educator with years of experience, the J-1 program offers you the chance to strengthen your professional skills in an international context.
Check our eligibility criteria today and see how you can change the world as an international educator.