J-1 Visa Sponsorship in the USA for International Teachers

My Experience as a Special Education Teacher Over the past two years, I have had the privilege of working as a special education teacher, a role that has been both challenging and deeply rewarding. My journey in this field has been defined by my commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment tailored to the unique needs of each student. I have worked with students across various age groups and with diverse disabilities, including learning disabilities, developmental delays, autism spectrum disorders, and emotional and behavioral challenges. Each student has brought their own strengths and needs, which has driven me to continuously adapt my teaching methods and find creative ways to engage them in the learning process. Collaboration has been a cornerstone of my work. I have partnered closely with general education teachers, speech and occupational therapists, and parents to develop Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) that address both academic goals and personal growth. Through these collaborations, I have gained a deep appreciation for the importance of teamwork and communication in ensuring each student’s success. In the classroom, I prioritize fostering a positive and patient atmosphere where students feel safe and valued. I use a variety of strategies, including differentiated instruction, hands-on activities, and assistive technologies, to help my students achieve their goals. Watching their progress—whether it’s mastering a new skill, improving their social interactions, or gaining confidence—has been incredibly fulfilling. These two years have reinforced my belief in the transformative power of education and the importance of advocating for students with special needs. While I have grown significantly as a teacher, I remain eager to continue learning and refining my practices to better serve my students and help them reach their full potential.

A hybrid is a mix of cultures, experiences or race, mine has been a journey of blending my Kenyan experience and culture as a teacher to the experience I am gaining in America. In Kenya, I taught in less diverse classes. The education system was quite different from the American experience: My students in Kenya wore uniforms, used the physical classroom, worked towards excelling in the national exam (summative assessement). Kenya has single gendered schools. The teaching approaches were more lecture- centred, because the class sizes were larger, and teaching geared towards meeting the expectations of the national exam. The American teaching experience has come with a more inclusive diverse teaching environment that provides for differentition stategies that allow the teacher to instruct both online and in physical spaces. The teaching in America is more student-centred. I have blended my experience in America to my teaching expereince in Kenya to become a hybrid. I have had fun expereincing the American culture, and interacting with people in the community: When I attended a haloween party, it reminded me of a cultural tradition in my luo called 'tero beru.'The season changes have been a beautiful thing to see. I really look forward to my winter, and spring. I have had a chance to experience American culinary and foods like Apple cakes, and turkey.Currently I am having a good time expereincing thankinsgiving and christmas plans and preparations. I attended the summer festival in Milauwkee- Wiscocin. Spirit has been a wonder partner through the placement opportunity, and helping get he Visa. The monthly checkins have been a good opportunity to reflect on my experiences. I believe this expereince will make me a better and a hybrid teacher.

I feel so great with Ms. Lauren! She is very friendly, very accommodating and she will really help you if you do have concerns. She will also make follow-ups how I am going here in Arizona. Spirit Cultural Exchange has given me an opportunity to teacher in the USA and because of the chance that they have given to me, I was able to make friends here and get a chance to travel in the others states like in Chicago, Las Vegas, Memphis, New Orleans and Nashville. Thank you for Cultural Spirit Exchange!