Greenheart International Teacher, Dr. Ronald C. Donceras, was recently honored by the Gannett Publication with the “Amazing Teachers Award”! Ronald teaches high school mathematics at Harlem Jr./Sr. High School in Montana. We connected with Ronald to ask about his Teach USA Program experience and to highlight his accomplishments and recognition.
How has the Teach USA Program impacted you as a Teacher?
The Teach USA Program has profoundly shaped my professional and personal growth as a teacher. It has enhanced my teaching skills by exposing me to innovative strategies, cross-cultural competence, and U.S. educational standards and resources. The program has strengthened my ability to utilize advanced resources, manage diverse classrooms, and implement student-centered, STEM-focused teaching methods. It allowed me to inspire fellow Filipino educators through my journey. My dedication and commitment to transforming and inspiring young generations has been honored and recognized. I was nominated as “Teacher of the Year” for 2023-2024 in the state of Montana. I consider this nomination as one of my big highlights and achievements in my teaching career in the USA.
And now, the Gannett Publication has recognized me with the “Amazing Teacher Award”. Both recognitions are powerful testaments to my unwavering dedication to education. They demonstrate my commitment to making a meaningful impact on students’ lives.
What have I learned in my Teach USA experience?
I have learned the value of adaptability and resilience in navigating a new cultural and educational environment. Teaching in the U.S. has expanded my understanding of diverse student needs. It emphasized the importance of culturally-responsive and student-centered teaching pedagogies.
Being an international teacher provided me with the opportunity to teach in a diverse, and challenging environment. I learned to adapt, innovate, and embrace cultural differences, making me a more resilient and effective teacher.
Why should a school host International Teachers?
International Teachers bring rich diversity and global perspective to communities. International teachers create a more inclusive and dynamic learning environment for students and staff alike. I’m an exchange teacher and mentor to other Filipino educators in our district. And as head of the Math Department at my host school, I have been able to share cultural insights, innovative teaching strategies, as well as classroom and behavioral management techniques.
Tell us about your Cross-cultural Activities and Community Events
I have organized various activities showcasing Filipino cuisine, language, and cultural traditions, which fostered cross-cultural exchange between American and Filipino students. I organized a food-sharing event centered on pansit (a traditional noodle dish in Filipino cuisine) which engaged fellow teachers and students in exploring Filipino cuisine and fostering cultural appreciation. That event promoted meaningful cross-cultural connections.
In 2022 -2023, I hosted a Filipino luncheon featuring dishes like adobo, pansit, and egg rolls. I featured an international activity comparing Filipino Fiesta celebrations and Native American traditions. By 2023 – 2024, I introduced a Filipino language lesson to my American students. I organized an exchange between a Native American student and a former Filipino student (now a teacher). These initiatives enriched Harlem High School’s cultural diversity.
Tell us something you are most proud of that your host school taught you
My host school taught me the value of cultural exchange and the importance of embracing diversity in education. Through collaborative activities and working with students and staff from various backgrounds, I have grown both personally and professionally, learning to adapt and connect in meaningful ways. This experience has deepened my understanding of how cultural differences can enrich teaching. It inspired me to be a more inclusive and globally minded educator.
What most interested you about Greenheart’s Teach USA Program?
Greenheart has an emphasis on cultural exchange and professional development. The program offers us international teachers the opportunity to share our unique cultural perspectives with U.S. students, which fosters mutual understanding and enriches the educational experience. And importantly, it provides a platform for international teachers to enhance our professional skills. We engage with diverse teaching pedagogies, educational technologies and practices in the United States.
What does the program mean to you? Why would you recommend that U.S. schools host an international teacher?
The program represents cultural exchange and mutual understanding between the United States and the Philippines. International teachers bring a unique perspective that enriches classroom learning. American students receive quality educations with added global and cultural dimensions. Participating teachers gain valuable experience, improve teaching practices, and continue to build inclusive, diverse learning environments.
Thank you, Ronald, for sharing your insightful experience with Greenheart’s Teach USA Program! And many congratulations on your honors.
Is your school ready to host highly qualified international educators? Visit HostGreenheartTeachers.org to apply to host one of Greenheart’s extraordinary international teachers today.