At International Alliance Group (IAG), we believe some of the most meaningful examples of cultural exchange can be found in the impact international educators make every day—in their classrooms, their schools, and the communities they become part of.
Today, we are proud to celebrate one of those educators.
Janett A. Canlas, an IAG Teacher and sixth-grade teacher at Alcorn Middle School, was selected as one of five finalists for Richland One’s 2026–2027 Teacher of the Year.
Being selected among the district’s finalists is a meaningful recognition of the dedication, passion, and commitment educators bring to their students every day.
Recognized Among Richland One’s Outstanding Educators
Richland One announced its five Teacher of the Year finalists as part of its annual recognition of outstanding district employees.
When announcing the finalists, Superintendent Dr. Todd Walker highlighted the dedication and passion represented by the educators selected and their role in helping students succeed, reach their potential, and pursue their dreams.
Janett was recognized alongside educators from schools throughout the district before the final Teacher of the Year was announced during Celebration 2026, Richland One’s year-end employee recognition event, held May 22 at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center. Alexandria Fogle of Brennen Elementary School was ultimately named the district’s 2026–2027 Teacher of the Year.
For IAG, however, Janett’s place among the five finalists represents something worth celebrating on its own.
A Story of Continued Recognition
This is also not the first time Janett’s commitment to education has been recognized.
At Alcorn Middle School, Janett previously received Teacher of the Year recognition for 2024–2025 as well as the Knight of Excellence Award, honoring her professionalism, leadership, and contributions to her school community.
Her selection as a district-level finalist builds on that story and reflects the kind of impact an educator can create through consistent dedication to students and the school community.
International Teachers Making an Impact
For IAG, Janett’s recognition also represents something bigger.
The J-1 Teacher Cultural Exchange Program is about much more than teaching in another country. International educators bring their experiences, perspectives, cultures, and knowledge into U.S. classrooms while becoming part of the communities they serve.
Over time, those everyday interactions can create meaningful connections between teachers, students, colleagues, families, and communities.
Janett’s recognition is a powerful example of an international educator becoming an active and valued member of her school community—and being recognized for the contribution she makes there.
Celebrating Janett Canlas
We are incredibly proud to see an IAG Teacher recognized among Richland One’s top educators.
Being selected as one of five Teacher of the Year finalists represents an important achievement and reflects the dedication Janett continues to bring to her students and school community.
Congratulations, Janett, on this well-deserved recognition.
Your journey is another reminder of the meaningful impact international educators can make through education and cultural exchange.
Discover More IAG Teacher Stories
Every teacher brings a different story, culture, and perspective to the classroom. Discover how IAG Teachers are creating meaningful connections and making an impact in school communities across the United States.