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!