My Journey from the Philippines to the United States of America on Greenheart’s Teach USA Program
My name is Eda Arabis, and I am a Special Education Teacher, Resource Teacher, and Case Manager with Upper Valley Special Education, assigned to Park River Area School in North Dakota. Joining Greenheart’s Teach USA Program has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. It gave me the opportunity not only to continue my passion for teaching but also to grow personally and professionally while representing my home country, the Philippines.
My Teach USA Program Experience so far!
As a Special Education teacher, I work closely with students with diverse learning needs by developing and implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), collaborating with families and educators, and helping students build confidence and independence. Every day reminds me why I chose this profession to make a positive difference in the lives of children.
The Greatest Lessons from my Teach USA Program
One of the greatest lessons I have learned through the Teach USA Program is that education goes beyond the classroom. It is about building relationships, embracing different perspectives, and learning from one another. My colleagues, students, administrators, and the entire Park River community welcomed me with kindness and generosity, making me feel at home despite being thousands of miles away from my family in the Philippines.
International Teachers Share Their Culture to Enrich Host Schools!
The program has also allowed me to share Filipino culture with my students and colleagues while learning about American traditions and values. Whether through conversations, school activities, or community events, these cultural exchanges have created meaningful connections and mutual respect. I truly believe that international educators help broaden students’ perspectives and remind us that learning has no borders.
My Selection as the 2026 Walsh County Teacher of the Year
One of the proudest moments of my journey was being selected as the 2026 Walsh County Teacher of the Year. Standing alongside outstanding educators from across North Dakota was both humbling and inspiring. I accepted this recognition with deep gratitude for my students, colleagues, administrators, and everyone who has supported me throughout this journey. As an international exchange teacher, this award also reflects the opportunities that programs like Greenheart create by allowing educators from different parts of the world to contribute their knowledge, experiences, and passion for teaching.
Final Reflections: Gratitude. Perseverance. Faith
My teaching journey has always been guided by gratitude, perseverance, and faith. I am thankful for my family in the Philippines, whose unwavering love and sacrifices continue to inspire me every day. Their support has given me the strength to pursue opportunities that once seemed impossible.
I would wholeheartedly recommend Greenheart’s Teach USA Program to both international teachers and U.S. schools. The program creates opportunities for professional growth, cultural understanding, and lifelong friendships while enriching school communities through the exchange of ideas, experiences, and traditions.
As I continue my journey in North Dakota, I remain committed to serving students with compassion, promoting inclusive education, and building bridges between cultures. I am deeply grateful to Greenheart, my host school, and everyone who has been part of this incredible experience. This journey has strengthened me not only as an educator but also as a person, and I look forward to continuing to inspire, learn, and serve wherever my teaching journey leads.
Thank you, Eda, for sharing your wonderful story with us! You are an inspiration to international teachers.
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.
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. Learn more by visiting GreenheartSchools.org.