24Feb

A Taste of Mexico in the Midwest: How Andrea Inspires Her 2nd Grade Class

For many educators, the call to teach transcends borders. Andrea Primavera Rodriguez Reyes, an experienced teacher from Mexico, is a prime example of how international exchange enriches the lives of students and teachers alike. Currently teaching 2nd Grade at Ypsilanti Community School in Michigan, Andrea has brought her passion for Elementary Dual Immersion to a whole new multicultural setting. 

Bringing a Taste of Mexico to Michigan 

Andrea joined the International Alliance Group (IAG) with a clear mission: to share her culture in a meaningful way while growing as a professional. She has achieved this by turning her classroom into a space for cultural discovery. 

To celebrate Mexican Independence Day, she introduced her students to: 

 

    • The History of “El Grito de Dolores”: Sharing the story of Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla. 

 

    • Hands-on Activities: Students created Mexican flags and engaged with traditional music and visuals. 

 

    • Cultural Curiosity: These lessons fostered a deeper sense of empathy and respect for traditions beyond the students’ own borders. 

Innovative Strategies for Student Success 

Andrea’s academic background in Early Childhood Education from Benemérita Escuela Normal Estatal has shaped her student-centered teaching approach. Through the Teacher Exchange Program, she has shared several successful educational practices from Mexico that have positively supported her second-grade students.

 

    1. Class Chants & Routines: Using rhythmic chants helps students transition smoothly between activities and remain focused. 

 

    1. Outdoor Exploration: She incorporates nature into her lessons, allowing for hands-on learning experiences. 

 

    1. Student-Centered Learning: By incorporating students’ personal interests into her lessons, she makes learning more engaging and relevant. 

The results speak for themselves. Andrea has noticed significant progress in her students’ behavior and cooperation. Families and administrators have also praised her dedication to her students’ emotional well-being and the caring environment she has built. 

Looking Toward the Future 

As she continues her journey, Andrea remains focused on becoming a more adaptable and confident educator in diverse environments. Her message to school leaders is simple: cultural exchange is an invaluable tool that strengthens a district’s commitment to innovation and inclusivity. 

“Cultural exchange fosters curiosity, empathy, and respect among students, while also encouraging collaboration and professional growth among teachers.” 

Growth and Global Impact 

For Andrea, this journey is about more than just a single school year; it is a long-term commitment to professional and personal evolution. Her primary goals for her time in the U.S. include strengthening her classroom management skills and gaining a much deeper understanding of diverse educational approaches. By fully immersing herself in the local culture and building meaningful connections with both colleagues and students, she aims to become a more adaptable and confident educator. 

Ultimately, Andrea feels a deep sense of gratitude for the chance to share her heritage while developing new skills that she can eventually bring back to benefit students and colleagues in Mexico. Her journey with IAG illustrates the profound impact that international teachers have on their school districts—fostering curiosity, empathy, and a more inclusive environment for the next generation of global citizens. 

Inspired by Andrea’s journey? Through the Teacher Exchange Program, educators can share their culture, learn from new perspectives, and build meaningful connections with students and school communities in the United States. Discover how you can take part in an educational and cultural exchange that promotes mutual understanding and enriches classrooms across cultures.

17Feb

From the Philippines to Arizona: The Inspiring Journey of International Educator Amy Peyra 

The story of Amy Peyra is one of profound dedication, resilience, and the power of cultural exchange.

Amy Peyra’s story reflects dedication, resilience, and the transformative power of cultural exchange. Drawing on 17 years of teaching experience in the Philippines, Amy began a meaningful educational and cultural exchange journey in the United States through the Teacher Exchange Program.

A Solid Foundation in Education 

Amy’s journey began at Baao Community College, Philippines, where she earned her Bachelor of Secondary Education, majoring in English. Before arriving in the U.S., her career spanned various roles, including teaching in private schools, colleges, and an international school focused on ESL for adult learners. 

She holds professional licenses in both the Philippines (since 2006) and Arizona, where she is specialized in English Language Arts (ELA) and Reading. She has also completed the prestigious LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling) training to further her expertise. 

Transforming the Classroom in Arizona 

Now in her third year at Espiritu’s Schools in Arizona, Amy teaches 3rd Grade ELA, focusing on reading, grammar, and writing. Her impact on her students and her district has been nothing short of extraordinary: 

  • Top Academic Results: For two consecutive years (2023 and 2024), Amy received recognition for achieving the highest literacy rates among all grade levels (K-6) in her school. 
  • District Excellence: Her data-driven approach contributed to her school district moving from a “B” rating to its current “A” rating. 
  • Supportive Environment: While her first year was a challenge as she learned new instructional materials, she credits the “amazing teachers” at her school and the academic support from IAG for her smooth transition. 

“In the Philippines, we tell our students that in school, we are their parents. I make my students feel they can trust me and that they are safe to learn from their mistakes because they have a teacher who cares for them like a parent.” — Amy Peyra. 

The Heart of Cultural Exchange 

Beyond the curriculum, Amy serves as a cultural ambassador. She believes that for many students who may not have the means to travel, having an international teacher is a way to “meet the world”. 

Her cultural contributions include: 

  • Sharing Traditions: Amy often participates in school and community events wearing the Filipiniana, the traditional clothing of the Philippines. 
  • Culinary Connection: During her second year, she prepared traditional Filipino dishes to share with the entire teaching and non-teaching staff. 
  • Linguistic Growth: Living in Arizona, Amy has discovered the importance of the Spanish language. She is currently motivated to learn Spanish to better communicate with parents during conferences and bridge the gap with her diverse community. 

Vision for the Future 

Amy’s professional goals remain ambitious. She hopes to pursue Post-Graduate studies in the United States to further equip herself with innovative pedagogical tools. When her exchange concludes, she is thrilled at the prospect of returning to the Philippines to share the innovations and cultural insights she has gained with her home community. 

Her message to district leaders is simple: experienced international teachers is a “win” that creates globally competitive learners. 

Inspired by Amy’s journey? Through IAG, educators can share their culture, exchange teaching practices, and build meaningful connections with students and school communities in the United States. 

 

10Feb

A Legacy of Excellence: The Impact of a Master Teacher in the Bilingual Classroom 

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: 

 

    • Sharing Traditions: Introducing her students and colleagues to Independence Day celebrations, typical dances, and traditional attire. 

 

    • A Taste of Home: Sharing the stories of iconic Honduran dishes like baleadas and tamales. 

 

    • Folklore and Legends: Sharing fascinating legends from her hometown to teach values and spark the imagination of her 1st graders. 

 

    • 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. 

Check our eligibility criteria today and see how you can change the world as an international educator. 

 

03Feb

How a Filipino Math Expert is Elevating Student Achievement in the U.S. 

For many students, mathematics can feel like a daunting challenge, but in Ainee Grace Dollete’s classroom in Broward County, Florida, it sounds more like a song. Ainee, a dedicated educator from the Philippines, transitioned to the U.S. school system with a clear mission: to make math accessible, engaging, and fun for her 6th and 8th-grade students. 

From Mindanao to the Sunshine State 

With a Master of Arts in Education and five years of teaching experience in her home country, Ainee brought a wealth of academic expertise to the International Alliance Group (IAG) program. A graduate of Mindanao State University, she was motivated by the opportunity to contribute to a global community and grow professionally in a multicultural environment. 

Overcoming Challenges with “Math Magic” 

Every international teacher faces an adjustment period, and for Ainee, the most challenging part was adapting to new classroom routines and expectations. However, she quickly bridged the gap by introducing innovative strategies from her home country. 

  • The Power of Song: One of her most rewarding moments was seeing her sixth graders master the addition of integers through the “integer song”. 
  • Multiplication Tricks: Ainee’s colleagues and students’ families were amazed by the basic hand tricks she teaches to simplify multiplication. 
  • Active Engagement: She begins every class with an “energizer” or motivational activity to ensure students are ready to learn. 

A Culture of Collaboration 

While Ainee is focused on numbers, she hasn’t forgotten the importance of cultural connection. She shares the Filipino tradition of “Bayanihan” with her colleagues, emphasizing the value of communal unity and helping one another. Simultaneously, she has embraced U.S. traditions, such as Hispanic Heritage Month, finding inspiration in the diverse cultures of her students. 

Recognized Excellence 

Ainee’s impact hasn’t gone unnoticed by her administration. During a recent classroom walkthrough, her Assistant Principal recognized her with “Super Star Moments,” highlighting her ability to create “Level-Up Opportunities” for her students. 

Today, Ainee sees a significant change in her classroom: students are more willing to participate in discussions and enjoy solving problems through instructional software. For Ainee, the journey with IAG it is about proving that international teachers are resilient, dedicated, and capable of bringing unique value to any school district. 

“I am thankful that school districts are open to us and to what we can bring to the school,” Ainee shares. 

Looking Ahead: A Legacy of Resilience and Excellence 

For Ainee, the journey is just beginning. Her goals for the coming years are focused on achieving excellence in classroom management and continuing to bridge the gap between complex mathematical concepts and student understanding. Her story is a testament to what happens when school districts remain open to the diverse perspectives and dedication that international educators bring to the table. 

Ainee’s message to superintendents and district leaders is one of gratitude and advocacy: international teachers are not only highly qualified but also incredibly resilient and dedicated to their students’ success, even when faced with the challenges of a new country. As she continues to transform her classroom in Broward County, Ainee proves that when we share our cultures and our “tricks,” everyone wins. 

Are you ready to follow in Ainee’s footsteps and become a cultural ambassador? This journey with IAG is about more than an international experience—it is a unique opportunity to bridge cultures, share your heritage, and return home with a global perspective that will transform your classroom forever. 

27Jan

Teaching with heart: Sandra’s Impact in New Mexico 

For Sandra Delfina Muñoz Duron, teaching is about more than just grammar and vocabulary—it is about bringing a living, breathing culture into the classroom. Originally from México, Sandra is now making a difference as a Spanish Language Arts teacher for grades 10, 11, and 12 in Clovis, New Mexico. 

With nine years of teaching experience in her home country and a degree in Teaching Spanish as a Second Language from the University of Guanajuato, Sandra arrived in the U.S. with a clear goal: to live and work in another country while doing what she loves—teaching her language. 

Bringing “Daily Life in México” to the Classroom 

Sandra’s classroom is a hub ofcultural exchange. She has introduced gamification and specific topics related to Mexican Spanish to make learning engaging. By sharing customs like the Day of the Dead and stories about daily life in Mexico, she helps students connect with the language on a deeper level. 

She notes that one of the mostrewarding parts of her job is seeing students interested in her explanations. “Many of them have never been out of the country,” Sandra explains. By sharing her own experiences learning languages and discussing the differences between countries, she helps broaden their horizons. 

A Two-Way Cultural Street 

While Sandra shares her heritage, she is also embracing American culture. Since arriving in Clovis, she has enjoyed experiencing football games, Halloween, and parties for kids. 

She believes that having international teachers is vital for a school district because it allows students to understand other perspectives. “An excellent way to help students be more critical is by showing them the diversity we have in the world,” she says. 

Looking to the Future 

Sandra is happy with her community, noting that the people in Clovis are “very gentle and nice” and that she has found excellent co-workers. Looking ahead, her professional goals include finishing her master’s degree and continuing her journey in the United States. 

Start Your Own International Teaching Journey 

Sandra’s experience highlights how teaching in the U.S. can strengthen your skills, broaden your perspective, and allow you to make a lasting impact on students’ lives. 

If you are a passionate educator ready to share your culture, challenge yourself professionally, and inspire a new classroom of students, we invite you to follow in Sandra’s footsteps. 

Are you ready to bring your unique perspective to a U.S. school district? Start your application and discover where your teaching journey can take you. 

 

20Jan

Teacher Spotlight: How an International Educator is Making an Impact in Adams County 

In the world of education, the most profound impacts often happen when cultures collide and knowledge is shared across borders. Today, we are spotlighting Prosper Opoku Agyemang, a dedicated Special Education teacher currently teaching grades 9–12 in the Adams County 14 Schools District, Colorado. 

Originally from Ghana, Prosper brought eight years of teaching experience with him when he decided to join the Teacher Exchange Program. His journey is a testament to the power of cultural exchange and the universal language of education. 

A Strong Foundation in Inclusion 

Prosper holds a Bachelor’s degree in special education from the University of Education, Winneba in Ghana. His academic background provided a robust foundation in individualized instruction and behavior management, which he now applies to his U.S. classroom. 

When asked what motivated him to teach in the U.S., Prosper noted a desire to broaden his professional experience in a multicultural environment. “I wanted to bring new learning opportunities and perspectives to my students while continuing to advocate for inclusion and equity in education,” he explains. 

The Cultural Exchange: Jollof Rice and Student Voice 

One of the unique benefits of international teachers is the rich cultural exchange that occurs within the school. Prosper has actively shared Ghanaian traditions with his students, introducing them to the concept of community and “togetherness” that is central to his culture. He has also shared tangible pieces of home, such as kente cloth, traditional music, and foods like jollof rice. 

In return, the U.S. education system has offered Prosper new perspectives. He has discovered the importance of “student voice” in American classrooms, where students are encouraged to think critically and share their opinions—a dynamic he values greatly.  

Overcoming Challenges to Find Success 

Prosper admits that adapting to the structure and new instructional technologies was challenging at first. However, navigating these differences has made him a stronger, more adaptable educator. 

The rewards, he says, outweigh the challenges. Prosper describes his most rewarding experience as seeing students grow in confidence and independence. He recalls a specific breakthrough with a student who had difficulty communicating; after weeks of consistent support, the student began expressing himself openly. 

“Knowing that I am making a positive impact in their lives while sharing my culture and learning from theirs has made this journey deeply meaningful,” Prosper reflects. 

Impact on the School Community 

Since arriving, Prosper has received positive feedback from families and administrators for his patience and dedication. He utilizes collaborative learning activities and storytelling—methods emphasized in Ghanaian classrooms to make abstract concepts relatable for his students. These strategies have been so effective that colleagues have expressed interest in adopting them, fostering a spirit of collaboration within the school. 

Looking Ahead 

Prosper believes that having international teachers helps students develop global awareness, which is essential in today’s interconnected world. His goal for the coming years is to continue enhancing his skills in special education technologies while taking on leadership roles to support his colleagues. 

To his community back home, Prosper sends a message of encouragement: “I encourage my community to embrace opportunities that allow them to learn, share, and make a positive impact, no matter where in the world they are”. 

If you are a passionate educator ready to share your culture, challenge yourself professionally, and inspire a new classroom of students, we invite you to follow in Prosper’s footsteps. 

Are you ready to bring your unique perspective to a U.S. school district? Apply with International Alliance Group (IAG) Today!

 

13Jan

The “Classroom Bayanihan” Model: Teaching Collaboration Through Culture 

When Jeanie Mae Hernal arrived in Colorado from the Philippines, she brought more than just her expertise in Chemical Engineering and a Master’s in Education. She brought a powerful cultural concept that would transform her classroom at Adams 14 School District: Bayanihan. 

With 8 years of experience in her home country, Jeanie is now teaching Physics and Astronomy to high schoolers in the U.S. Her journey is a testament to how international teachers do far more than fill a vacancy—they create a “living curriculum” that bridges cultures and ignites student potential. 

The “Classroom Bayanihan” Model 

In the Philippines, Bayanihan represents community unity—an “all-for-one, one-for-all” spirit where neighbors come together to achieve a common goal. Jeanie noticed that her U.S. students were initially very individualistic and hesitant to share ideas for fear of being wrong. 

To bridge this gap, she introduced the “Classroom Bayanihan” model. Instead of simple group work, she assigns complex tasks where every student has a critical role, such as a “Leader” or “Time-keeper”. The result? A dynamic transformation. 

“The room is now filled with this productive, noisy energy of them debating solutions, drawing diagrams on whiteboards, and teaching each other,” Jeanie explains. 

Her students have moved from being disengaged to becoming resilient teammates who are no longer afraid of making mistakes. 

Physics in the Real World 

Jeanie didn’t just change how her students worked; she changed what they worked on. Facing the challenge of adapting to a new school culture, she designed lessons that were alive and dynamic. 

By integrating sports scenario analysis, gamified lessons, and fun projects, she saw students who were previously written off as “disengaged” suddenly light up. Seeing them take pride in their work made Jeanie feel that she truly belonged as an educator in the U.S.. 

A Cultural Ambassador 

Beyond the laws of physics, Jeanie teaches the value of global connection. She openly shares her Filipino heritage, from values like pag-aaruga (nurturing) and pakikisama (getting along) to bringing traditional foods like lumpia and pancit to staff meetings. 

This openness has sparked a “global curiosity” in her students. They now ask questions like, “How do they solve this problem in other countries?” proving that they are making connections beyond their own town. 

Unstoppable Passion 

Jeanie’s impact hasn’t gone unnoticed. She has been recognized as a “Pioneer Teacher” in the ACED Academy and was a presenter at the National Science Teacher Conference in Denver. Her colleagues and administrators describe her as “Unstoppable,” “Passionate,” and an “Inspiration”. For Jeanie, the experience has been about growth. 

“I realized that I could do more. I could adapt my teaching style, bridge that cultural gap, and connect with my American students in a way that was meaningful for them,” she says. 

Ready to Make Your Impact? Jeanie Mae Hernal is proving that science and culture go hand-in-hand. If you are an experienced educator ready to bring your own unique perspective to a U.S. classroom, IAG is ready to help you start your journey. 

 

 

06Jan

Learning Through Lyrics: How Songs Are Building Confidence in Young Learners

Moving across the world to teach is a bold step, but for Azenith Torda, it was a necessary one to grow as a professional and build global understanding. With 14 years of teaching experience in the Philippines and a Master’s in Arts of Education, Azenith brought a wealth of knowledge to her new role as a Kindergarten teacher at Columbia Public Schools in Missouri. 

Bridging Cultures Through Song and Story 

One of the most powerful tools Azenith brought from the Philippines is her approach to engagement. In her home country, education relies heavily on stories, songs, and group activities. She has seamlessly integrated these methods into her U.S. classroom to help children listen, speak, and understand new concepts. 

The results have been heartwarming. Azenith recalls one of her most rewarding experiences: teaching her students traditional Filipino songs. “Seeing their faces light up as they learned the lyrics and sang proudly was truly unforgettable,” she shares. 

By sharing her traditions—including holidays, foods, and storytelling—she has created a richer, more inclusive classroom where young students learn to appreciate different cultures early on. 

Growth and Confidence in the Classroom 

Since arriving in Missouri, Azenith has noticed a significant transformation in her students. She notes that they have become “more confident, ask questions without hesitation, and share their ideas openly.”  

The impact is felt beyond the students. Azenith received touching feedback from her principal, who noted that the families “love her,” and it is evident that the students return that love. 

A Message on Cultural Exchange

Azenith believes that international teachers bring new ideas that help students learn about the world. Her message to district leaders is clear: “Cultural exchange helps students and teachers learn from different perspectives, appreciate diversity, and make the school a more creative and welcoming place.”  

As she continues her journey, Azenith plans to keep growing as a teacher, learning new strategies to bring back to her community in the Philippines, and continuing to inspire her students in Missouri. 

Ready to Write Your Own Story? Azenith’s journey from the Philippines to Missouri started with a desire to grow and share her culture. If you are an experienced educator ready to bring your own excellence and culture to a U.S. classroom, we want to hear from you. 

23Dec

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

Early childhood education is where curiosity, confidence, and a love of learning begin to take shape. In Richland One, South Carolina, a group of kindergarten students is experiencing this important stage alongside an educator whose expertise, warmth, and cultural perspective enrich the classroom every day.

We are honored to spotlight Dr. Nubia Elena Salazar Ramos, a highly accomplished educator from Mexico who is bringing cultural immersion, meaningful connection, and innovative teaching practices into early childhood education.

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. 

 

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 

Refleting 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. 

Are you ready to share your culture, learn from others, and make a meaningful impact in an American classroom? Join International Alliance Group‘s exchange program. Click here to apply and take the first step toward your global transformation.