My name is Dr. Sunday Vince V. Latergo, and I am currently a 3rd Grade Teacher at Naco Elementary School District No. 23 in Naco, Arizona, United States of America.
The Teach USA Program: A Long-term Impact
The Teach USA program has been a transformative chapter in my professional life. Beyond the classroom, it has refined my resilience and leadership, allowing me to view teaching as a commitment to cross-cultural connection. Recently, I had the honor of presenting my research, “The Interplay of Personal Factors, Professional Factors, and Teaching Performance Among U.S.-Based Filipino Educators,” at the Association of Filipino Teachers and Educators in America (AFTEA), Inc.’s 5th International Research and Education Conference (IREC) in New York City.
At this conference, I was humbled to receive the Dr. Roberto N. Padua Memorial Award for Excellence in Research, along with 1st Place for Best Paper in Cluster 2 (Teacher Development, Educational Leadership, and AI-enabled Educational Systems) and 1st Place for Best Presenter in Track 1 (Educational Leadership). Additionally, I was recognized with the Light of the World Teaching Service Awards: Diamond Award (10th Year).
Learning, Leadership, and Growth
Navigating the U.S. educational landscape has taught me how to blend my Filipino teaching heritage with local standards to create an inclusive environment. My host school’s culture of continuous improvement has been instrumental in my growth, and I am deeply involved in school leadership as a member of the Site Council and the HOPE Council. I am also proud to be part of the AZiLDR (Arizona Initiative for Leadership Development and Research).
Furthermore, I have actively secured resources to enhance student learning through grant-funded initiatives:
- The Bisbee Foundation “Love of Learning” Grant: Awarded for my project, “Cardinal Pride Reading Nests”.
- The 2025 Cochise Education Foundation Mini-Grant: Supported my project, “Cardinal Pride Math RTI Centers”.
These leadership opportunities and resources have transformed my classroom into a space where every child feels equipped to succeed. Greenheart’s team has also been a constant source of support throughout my journey.
Why U.S. Schools Should Host International Teachers
Hosting international teachers enriches the educational fabric of the community. Bringing in diverse perspectives promotes cultural competence, which is vital in our globalized world. I recommend that U.S. schools continue this practice because it fosters a reciprocal exchange of knowledge. For me, this program is a bridge between nations, creating a community where both teachers and students learn from one another’s unique stories.
Exciting News of Recognition!
I am proud to share some exciting news regarding my recent professional development as a J-1 exchange teacher at Naco Elementary School District No. 23.
I recently had the privilege of participating in the 5th International Research and Education Conference (IREC), held in New York City from June 26 to July 5, 2026. Representing the Philippines and our exchange program, I presented my research titled, “The Interplay of Personal Factors, Professional Factors, and Teaching Performance Among U.S.-Based Filipino Educators.”
I am honored to share that my work and dedication to the profession were recognized with the following awards:
A. Dr. Roberto N. Padua Memorial Award for Excellence in Research
1. 1st Place for Best Paper (Cluster 2: Teacher Development, Educational Leadership, and AI-enabled Educational Systems)
2. 1st Place for Best Presenter (Track 1: Educational Leadership)
B. Light of the World Teaching Service Award: Diamond Award (10th Year) in recognition of international teaching service.
Final Reflections!
This experience has been a significant milestone in my journey as an educator in the U.S. I am grateful for the platform that Greenheart Exchange provides, which allows us to contribute to the global educational landscape while growing professionally.
Thank you, Dr. Sunday, for sharing your wonderful story with us! You are an inspiration to international teachers and educators.
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.