Our Director of School Relations, Juliet Jones, interviewed Dr. Michael Sivertson, the Principal of Youngker High School in Buckeye, AZ. The interview was about his experience with Greenheart’s Teach USA participants. Read on to find out how his school has been benefiting from hosting international teachers with Greenheart’s Teach USA Program!
The Impact of Greenheart’s Teach USA Program on Host Schools
We’ve had great success with the program. We’ve been doing this for several years, and it’s just part of who we are now. We’ve been very pleased with the professional acumen of our exchange teachers. There is that period of adaptation to American students and the educational system here. There are particular aspects of student behavior and discipline that might be different where they are coming from. However, with the right supports in place, they can learn quickly. And we support them; once they get here, they are our teachers — we’re in this together! We’re very proud of them.
The Best Part of Having International Exchange Teachers in your School
We have about ten teachers from several countries – India, Mexico, the Philippines, a couple countries in Africa. The blending of diversity they bring to our community is incredible. The curiosity of our kids when they interact with them is amazing. The kids really appreciate that a teacher would come that far to help them. The enthusiasm and excitement that come from a teacher coming that far is palpable. They left everything they know — it really speaks to the very special qualities of someone who would do that. They just have an extra zest and enthusiasm that they bring to bear. And they are so appreciative! They have so much gratitude for the opportunity to come and contribute. There’s just something extra there.
The Role of the Host School in Setting Exchange Teachers up for Success?
We understand there’s going to be a learning curve. We have support networks such as our coaches and instructional specialists that are there to assist. We also have our veteran exchange teachers who serve as mentors. They help exchange teachers learn how to properly educate American students. That is helpful particularly coming from their own country or outside the culture.
The Rewards of Working with the BridgeUSA Teacher Program
It is very rewarding to watch my teachers connect with the community, grow and contribute to their professional capacity. Once they understand how to work within the dynamics of an American school, they progress very quickly. And seeing the qualitative and quantitative data to support that is very rewarding. I’m a teacher at heart too, and I want to support my teachers. When they have successes, and I see their pride in those successes, it really touches my heart. It’s very affirming.
Is your school ready to host highly qualified international educators to contribute to the learning experience of your students and communities? Visit HostGreenheartTeachers.org to apply to host today.
Did you know? If your school participates in one or more of Greenheart’s cultural exchange programs, your school will be eligible for up to $4,000 in grants as a Greenheart School. Details at GreenheartSchools.org.