I am Gina Kaye N. Barretto, an international teacher currently teaching first grade at Barack Obama Elementary School in Normandy School Collaborative in Saint Louis, Missouri. I am currently in my third year of teaching here in the USA, and this journey has truly enriched my understanding of what it means to be an international teacher; it is a privilege and a significant responsibility. This experience has given me the chance to share my expertise, teaching experiences, and cultural identity in a new educational setting, while also learning from the diverse individuals and communities I encounter. As a Filipino educator in the United States, I believe my role extends beyond simply teaching; I am also a cultural ambassador. I take pride in representing my country through my teaching, values, traditions, and every interaction I have. I genuinely embrace the idea that my role involves more than just delivering lessons. It encompasses building connections, celebrating cultural diversity, sharing my experiences, and striving to understand various perspectives. Being an international teacher has opened my eyes to the broader landscape of education and reminded me that teaching is not solely about academic achievement. It is about fostering relationships, enhancing cultural awareness, and making a positive impact on the lives of those around me.
The Special Impact of Greenheart’s Teach USA Program
Greenheart’s Teach USA Program offers a valuable opportunity for educators to grow professionally, experience a new culture, and gain a broader understanding of education in an international setting. The program not only provides an opportunity for the teachers to work abroad but also fosters the exchange of knowledge and teaching practices. Participants can explore new educational methods and create lasting connections with fellow educators and local communities. It also provides a chance to experience a different way of life, appreciate cultural diversity, and develop greater independence, flexibility, and adaptability. What makes the program especially meaningful is that it is a two-way exchange: while international teachers learn from their host country, they also share their own culture, traditions, knowledge, and experiences. For me, being part of this program is more than just an opportunity to work abroad; it is a journey of learning, sharing, personal growth, and creating connections that extend beyond the classroom.
My Greenheart’s Teach USA Program
With these opportunities in mind, I decided to join the J-1 Teacher Exchange Program with Greenheart for several personal and professional reasons. I joined the J-1 Teacher Exchange Program because I wanted to broaden my horizons, explore new opportunities, and experience what it is like to live and work as an international teacher. I wanted to step out of my comfort zone, experience a different culture, and learn how education is practiced in another country. And I saw this program as an opportunity to grow both personally and professionally. I wanted to learn new teaching strategies, experience different classroom management approaches, and understand how American school operate. I was also excited to work with students from diverse backgrounds, build relationships with American teachers, and learn from their experiences.
Cultural exchange is a two-way learning experience!
I also wanted to share my own culture, teaching practices, and experiences as a Filipino educator. I believe cultural exchange is a two-way learning experience where we not only learn from others but also share something meaningful about ourselves. It is more than just gaining international teaching experience; I want to challenge myself, become more independent, and develop the ability to adapt to new situations. I foresee this journey will give me opportunities to see education from a wider perspective, appreciate cultural differences, and grow as an individual and as a teacher. I believe that the knowledge, skills, and experiences I gain from this program will help me become a better educator and bring valuable lessons to my future teaching practice and the community I serve.
What I enjoyed most about the J-1 Teacher Exchange Program
It was the opportunity to experience life as an international teacher. It was a rewarding experience because I learned so much about classroom management, teaching strategies, and how teachers address different needs and behaviors of the students. I especially enjoyed meeting and working with local teachers and school leaders because I gained new ideas and learned from their experiences and approaches to education.
The rich cultural exposure that came with the program
I had the opportunity to learn about American culture, experience a different way of life, and participate in activities that have allowed me to interact with people from different backgrounds. One of the most memorable experiences this year was conducting a cultural exchange activity at the firefighters’ kitchen. We prepared and presented Filipino dishes while the firefighters observed the cooking process, showed interest in the ingredients and preparation, and had the opportunity to taste the food. It was fulfilling to see their curiosity and appreciation as they experienced the unique flavors of Filipino cuisine. Their positive reactions and willingness to try our traditional dishes made the activity even more meaningful. It was not just about sharing food; it was also about sharing our traditions, stories, and culture with people in the community.
Cultural exchange goes beyond the academics!
This experience also made me realize that cultural exchange goes beyond the academics. It should not be limited to teachers, students, and school communities because it can also reach community helpers and other members of society. Our interaction with the firefighters showed that everyone can be a part of cultural learning and understanding. Through simple activities like cooking and sharing food, we can build connections, promote cultural appreciation, and strengthen relationships within the community.
Sharing my Filipino culture and teaching experiences!
I enjoyed and appreciated the opportunity to share my Filipino culture and teaching experiences with my colleagues, students, and the people in the community while learning to appreciate theirs. These experiences helped me become more open-minded, flexible, and adaptable. Overall, the program gave me more than just professional experience. It allowed me to build meaningful friendships, create wonderful memories, face new challenges, and discover things about myself. It has helped me grow not only as a teacher but also as a person. These are experiences and lessons that I will always treasure and carry with me wherever my teaching journey takes me. Forever grateful to Greenheart for the opportunity.
Interested in learning how Greenheart Teach USA can help your school address teaching needs while enriching your campus through cultural exchange? Contact our team to learn more about bringing experienced international educators to your school community. 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.