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.