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Teach in a U.S. School

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  • Overview

    Greenheart Exchange’s Teach USA program connects enthusiastic, highly-qualified international teachers with U.S. host schools to promote cultural understanding and public diplomacy.

    The purpose of the Teach USA program is to promote interaction and enhance mutual understanding between U.S. and international teachers. Participating teachers are placed in a K-12 host school for 1-3 years and teach a wide range of subjects. During this program, teachers can expect to sharpen their professional skills and take part in cross-cultural activities within their schools and local communities.

    Greenheart Exchange provides two (2) program options:

    • Self-Placed (SP): placements are arranged directly between the teacher and a Teach USA approved host school, supplemented by Greenheart Exchange’s sponsorship.

     

    • Best Practices for Host School Approval:
      •  If you are a self-placed teacher with an official offer and/or Letter of Intent, ensure your host school completes the host school application immediately; all new host schools must be approved by Greenheart Exchange prior to an official placement approval.
      • To assist in locating an accredited host school in the U.S., we recommend a registry such as Cognia.  There are several accreditation agencies available to host schools. Keep in mind accreditation will vary school to school. Recognized by state does not satisfy proof of accreditation. Confirm with your host school, prior to signing an employment offer letter or contract, that they are in fact accredited and are an approved host school per Greenheart’s guidelines.
      • See Greenheart Exchange’s MAP for U.S. states Greenheart is authorized to place in public schools for international teachers. Note that restrictions per state may apply and may be amended at any time.
      • If your host school is not approved, your school representative will need to submit a School Inquiry Form.

     

    • Full Program (FP): placements are facilitated by Greenheart Exchange Teach USA, matching accredited host schools with a qualified, experienced teacher.

    ****   PLEASE NOTE:  Eligibility Evaluation for 2024-25 will open in January 2024. Please see our Program Deadline section for further information.   ****

  • Eligibility

    All Teach USA applicants must:

    • Meet the qualifications for teaching at the primary or secondary levels in schools in their country of nationality.
    • Have a degree equivalent to a 4-year U.S. bachelor’s degree in Education or the academic subject field in which they intend to teach.
    • Have a minimum of 2 years teaching or related professional experience.
    • Satisfy the teaching eligibility standards of the U.S. state in which he or she will teach, including any required criminal background checks.
    • Be of good reputation and character.
    • Agree to come to the U.S. as a full-time teacher of record in an accredited primary (including pre-kindergarten) or secondary school.
    • Be proficient in English. Teachers will be interviewed in English to assess verbal ability and comprehension.
    • Be working as a teacher at the time of application.

    Applicants NOT working as a teacher at the time of application must:

    • Meet the qualifications for teaching at the primary or secondary levels in schools in his or her home country (including pre-kindergarten).
    • Have at least two years of full-time teaching experience within the past eight years.
    • Have completed an advanced degree (in Education or in the academic area he or she intends to teach) within 12 months of his or her application submission date for the program
    • Have a completed Foreign Credential Evaluation (FCE) prior to interviewing with a Greenheart Exchange host school.

    Greenheart Exchange partners with a third-party entity, offering discounted rates to our applicants. For more information, please contact the Teach USA team.

  • BridgeUSA Program

    The Teach USA Program is part of the US Department of State’s BridgeUSA programming.

    • The US Department of State administers 15 categories of the BridgeUSA Program
    • The BridgeUSA Program provides international candidates an opportunity to gain valuable work and study experience in the U.S.
    • The J-1 Teacher visa is a 3-year exchange visa for international teachers coming to the U.S. to teach, which can be extended 2 years for 5 years total
    • Teachers are required to organize 2 cross-cultural activities (CCA) per year with their host school and local community

    Greenheart Exchange is a Department of State (DOS) designated Exchange Visitor Program J-1 visa sponsor for many BridgeUSA programs, such as:

    • Teacher
    • Secondary School (High School Programs Department)
    • Intern
    • Trainee
    • Summer Work Travel

  • The Department of State

    This program is formally administered through the US Department of State through the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA).

    The US Department of State

    • Creates program regulations and ensures sponsors, participants, and schools are compliant with the program rules
    • Communicates with sponsors to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of the participants
    • Approves program placements, extensions, and provides sponsors with DS-2019 forms for participants seeking J-1 visas

    Greenheart Exchange’s Role as Visa Sponsor:

    • Greenheart Exchange is your J-1 visa sponsor while you are in the U.S.
    • Greenheart Exchange approves, places, and monitors international teachers in U.S. schools with help from our overseas partners
    • We provide 24/7 program support to all teachers on our program in order to ensure health, safety, and well-being
    • We work with host schools to guide you through school interviews, visa interviews, and arrival logistics to the U.S.

  • Fees

    Fees (as of August 2023 – note: program fees change from year to year and are determined at the time the service is provided) Greenheart’s Program fees on the Teach USA programs are variable and depend upon program type, program length, and whether you are a direct applicant to Greenheart or an applicant through one of our contracted partners.

    Program Fees

    Fee Name Amount Paid to
    Greenheart 1-Year Program fees $2,200-$3,400 Greenheart Exchange
    Sending Partner fees  $1,400-$5,000 Third Party Partner
    Annual Program Renewal fee $1,820 Greenheart Exchange
    J-2 Dependent fee $450 Greenheart Exchange
    J-2 Dependent Annual Renewal fee $450 Greenheart Exchange
    J-2 Insurance Coverage Estimated $400-$2,000+
    depending on provider    		 Insurance Provider

     

    • Greenheart Program Fees include the following:
      • J-1 Visa Sponsorship (DS-2019 form)
      • Pre-Departure Virtual Orientation
      • Discounted Foreign Credential Evaluation (FCE) services
      • 24/7 in-country support from Greenheart Exchange
      • Accident and Injury Insurance coverage for the duration of the program upon arrival (J-1 only) 
      • Emergency medical evacuation insurance provided for the full program length (J-1 only) 
      • Placement with an approved and accredited U.S. Host School (Full Program)

    Miscellaneous non-refundable fees to anticipate: 

    Fee Name  Amount  Paid to 
    Application Fee $200 Greenheart Exchange
    Flat Rate Courier Fee $60 Greenheart Exchange
    State Teaching License $100-$200 Specific State Authority
    Lost/destroyed DS-2019 Replacement $50 + shipping Greenheart Exchange
    Foreign Credential Evaluation (with Spantran) $150-$220 Spantran
    Change of Host School Fee $300 Greenheart Exchange
    Yearly Program Renewal $1,820 Greenheart Exchange
    Year 4/5 Program Extension Application Fee $500 Greenheart Exchange

     

    Visa related fees: 

    Fee Name Amount Paid to
    SEVIS fee $220 U.S. Department of Homeland Security
    Visa Interview Fee $160 U.S. Embassy or Consulate
    Reciprocity fee Varies based on the country of citizenship U.S. Embassy or Consulate

     

    Cancellation Policy:

    Cancellation Period Cancellation Fee Visa Denial Fee
    Cancellation request received at least 28 days before DS 2019 start date $500 $250
    Cancellation request received 27-1 day(s) before DS 2019 start date $1,000 $500
    Cancellation request received on or after DS 2019 start date Entire program fee Entire program fee

     

    Teaching salaries and living expenses in the United States Teachers on this BridgeUSA program receive a full-time salary from the host school which enables the participant to pay for living expenses in the U.S. The expenses anticipated include, but are not limited to: housing, food, and leasing or purchasing a car. Teaching salaries and living expenses in the U.S. vary based on a number of factors such as years of teaching experience, location, family size, and lifestyle choices.

    *Salary Tax Withholding: while being placed in a USA school you will need to account for three different categories of taxes:

    Tax Amount
    Federal tax: The federal withholding tax rate an employee owes depends on their income level and filing status. This all depends on whether you’re filing as single, married jointly or married separately, or head of household. The federal withholding tax has seven rates for 2021: 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35%, and 37%.
    State Income taxes which vary by state, are a percentage of money that you pay to the state government based on the income you make at your job.
    *FICA is a U.S. federal payroll tax. It stands for the Federal Insurance Contributions Act and is deducted from each paycheck. FICA mandates that separate taxes be withheld from an employee’s gross earnings: 6.2% Social Security tax, withheld from the first $147,000 an employee makes in 2022. 1.45% Medicare tax, withheld on all of an employee’s wages.
    *First-year teachers may be eligible for a FICA exemption for up to two calendar years, based upon prior presence in the U.S.
    *Tax information is subject to change and you will need to check the IRS website for the most up-to-date filing information.

     

    It is important that you plan carefully for all expenses prior to coming to the U.S.

    Expenses Potential costs
    *Housing Rent varies by location and size of the unit: $750 to $5,000+ per month
    *Transportation Public transportation: free to $130 (monthly pass)
    *Groceries $100 per week
    *Personal expenses $500+
    Greenheart provides insurance through a trusted provider: 7-Month Insurance emergency medical plan: $500 12-Month Insurance emergency medical plan: $720
    Subsidized medical insurance premiums for insurance plans offered through host school HMO plan: $30+ per paycheck PPO plan: $38+ per paycheck Dental Benefits: $26 – $100 per paycheck *you can always ask a potential school to provide you with the summary of their benefits.
    *Expenses differ for each community; you can utilize a cost-of-living calculator to understand potential expenses.

     

    Examples (for estimation purposes only; actual expenses will vary):

    Example 1: Family with 2 small children living in Phoenix:

     

    Expense Monthly cost
    Rent for 2-bedroom apartment $1680
    Energy bill $180
    Phone (2 lines) $120
    Cable/internet $80
    Car (fuel/maintenance/insurance) $380
    Car payment $300
    Subsidized school health insurance $240
    Groceries $800
    Travel/entertainment/meals out $100
    Personal expenses $250
    Total $4,130

     

    Example 2: Single teacher living in Chicago who enjoys nightlife and dining out 2x per week:

     

    Rent (sharing with one roommate) $1,100
    Energy bill $55
    Phone $80
    Cable/internet $35
    Transportation (monthly pass for bus/train) $80
    Subsidized school health insurance $75
    Groceries $350
    Travel/entertainment/meals out $450
    Personal expenses $100
    Total $2,325

     

    Teachers should expect to wait several weeks or more for their first paychecks. Greenheart Exchange recommends teachers bring a minimum of $3,500 with them to cover initial expenses, such as first month’s rent and rental deposits, a car down payment, driver’s license and Social Security application fees, and other initial expenses. 

  • Regulations

    The BridgeUSA Program fosters global understanding through educational and cultural exchanges. All exchange visitors are expected to return to their home country upon completion of their program in order to share their exchange experiences.

    Greenheart Exchange is committed to making sure that our teachers are safe during their time in the U.S. The information on this page will provide you with up-to-date program regulations and expectations. Please contact us directly with any questions.

    Department of State Resources
    Greenheart Exchange Notification Requirements

    Teachers and host schools are required to notify Greenheart Exchange of the following situations:

    • Teachers must check-in with Greenheart Exchange and provide their housing address within 72 hours of their arrival to the U.S.
    • Teachers must check-in with Greenheart Exchange every 30 days throughout the duration of their program.
    • Teachers must notify Greenheart Exchange of any changes in their housing address within 48 hours of the change.
    • There is a concern for the teacher’s health, safety and well-being.
    • The teacher’s DS-2019 Form is lost, stolen, or damaged.
    • The teacher leaves, quits, or is fired from the host school for any reason.
    • The teacher intends to travel internationally.
    • The teacher has issues processing a Social Security card application.
    • The teacher has issues with wages or taxes.
    • The teacher has issues with their job duties.
    • The teacher is not abiding by the rules and regulations set forth by their sponsor, the U.S. Department of State and by their host school, in the form of contracts, employee handbooks, etc.
    Exchange Visitor Rights

    All Exchange Visitors are entitled to the same legal protections as U.S. residents and citizens. Please review the following resources regarding rights and protections of participants on the Teacher Exchange Program:

    I-9 Form: Employment Eligibility Verification
    • All host schools are required to ensure proper completion and retention of the I-9 Form on the teacher’s first day. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services provides a variety of resources for host schools on their website.
    • Social Security Number: Teachers will need to apply for a Social Security card (if they have never been issued one). Host schools should be aware that the Social Security card application can take up to 6 weeks, and teachers can begin their program during this time. Please see the additional resources below:
    U.S. Tax Withholdings

    Teachers are required to be on regular payroll and must complete Form W-4 at the start of their program. Teachers are required to pay federal, state, and local (if applicable) income taxes and are exempt from paying FICA and FUTA taxes. Please review additional resources below:

    Annual U.S. Tax Returns

    Host schools must provide W-2 forms to teachers in-line with Social Security Administration requirements. Teachers are required to file an individual tax return in-line with Internal Revenue Service requirements. Please review the additional resources below:

  • Program Timeline

    The Application Period is closed for the 2023-24 Academic Year

    Eligibility Evaluations for Academic Year 2024-25:  Opens January 2024

    Application Deadline for 2024-25:  Closes June 1, 2024

    U.S. Arrival Dates:  July – September

    U.S. School Year:  August – June

    Here’s where to Check your eligibility now 

    Thank you! 

     

  • FAQs

    How do I apply for the Teach USA program?

    It’s simple! Begin by clicking the “Get Started” button. Greenheart Exchange will review your submission and contact you shortly.

    Who pays the Teach USA program fees?

    Participants are responsible for paying all fees associated with the Teach USA program. However, Greenheart does encourage schools to help pay for program fees if funding is available.

    What type of salary will I earn as a teacher?

    Teach USA teachers earn the same salary and benefits as their American counterparts. This is a requirement for all host schools in the Teach USA program.

    How do I become certified to teach in my U.S. host state and school?

    Teacher certification for international teachers is different state-by-state. The first step for all teachers is to undergo a Foreign Credential Evaluation (FCE). Greenheart Exchange offers a unique discount for our teachers to expedite their FCE and save money in the process!

    What types of host schools am I eligible to teach at (public, charter, private, international)?

    Greenheart Exchange works with all types of accredited K-12 schools that meet or exceed state standards, provided they are supportive of international teachers and cultural exchange.

    What is the timeline of the Teach USA program?

    The U.S. school year typically runs from August to the following June.

    Can my spouse or children (dependents) accompany me to the U.S.?

    Yes! Spouses and children under 21 are eligible for sponsorship on a J-2 visa. Greenheart recommends that your family join you in the U.S. only after you have arrived at your placement, began teaching, and secured housing. Additionally, J-2 children can attend school in the U.S.

    Can my spouse work on a J-2 visa?

    Dependents may apply for an I-765 from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to work throughout the duration of their stay.

    How long can I stay in the U.S.?

    Teachers can stay up to 3 years and may apply for an extension of 2 years for a possible total of 5 years.

    During the 3 year program time frame, teachers must renew annually in February.

    Teachers wishing to extend beyond the 3 year program must apply in December-January of their third year.

  • Why Greenheart Exchange?

    Greenheart Exchange has been a J-1 visa sponsor for many years, and there are advantages to Greenheart being your visa sponsor:

    • 35 years of experience with cultural exchange programs
    • Hands-on support every step of the way
    • 24/7 emergency phone number to reach a staff member at any time
    • Pre-departure Webinar before you leave
    • We are a non-profit, mission-based organization
    • Continued support throughout your time in the USA

    We also have some unique offerings to our Greenheart Exchange teachers and alumni!

    Greenheart Grants

    Greenheart Grants are funds awarded to Greenheart teachers to use for community development projects in their host or home country. A Greenheart Grant is the opportunity to create, improve, or maintain an impactful, community-focused project abroad or at home. Grant funds could be applied to supporting women’s cooperatives, schools, community centers, or health clinics, for example. Grant winners will be featured on our website, social media, and blog. You can see a past Teach USA grant recipient project here.

    Greenheart Global Leaders Conference

    Each August Greenheart offers full-ride scholarships to over 40 alumni to attend our annual conference in Washington, DC. Participants even get a chance to advocate for cultural exchange in a presentation to the US Department of State. You can see more about what GGLC is and what you could do at the conference here.

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