What is your name?
Alecia
Where are you based in the U.S?
Massachusetts
What inspired you to pursue teaching in the U.S.?
I was inspired to teach in the U.S. for many reasons, including a desire to make a difference in students' lives, a passion for gaining knowledge and the desire to share my knowledge as a Math teacher. I have always wanted to work with young people and so teaching allows me to inspire the next generation not just academically but culturally as well. In addition, I get to help students reach their full potential and shape their attitudes toward learning, especially Mathematics. I have always wanted to have a positive, inspiring impact on children's lives and I get to do that everyday.
How has moving to the U.S. impacted your life?
It has impacted my life in a positive way both personally and professionally. On a personal level, I get the opportunity to experience a new culture. This experience of adapting to a new way of life was both challenging and rewarding. For the first three (3) months I was homesick. I miss my kids, family, and friends but at the same time, I gained new connections and friendships. My work environment is awesome. It has allowed me to feel at home. So this played a huge role in my adjustment.
Professionally, teaching in the US offers exposure to a whole new education system, new ideas and methodologies and perhaps more resources. It took some time for me to understand local policies and curricula. However, this opens doors to new opportunities for my career growth, networking with other educators and a broader perspective on global education.
What do you enjoy most about living in the U.S.?
The chance to bring my unique perspective and cultural experiences into the classroom is really rewarding, as it helps broaden my students’ worldviews. I also enjoy the professional development opportunities that come with teaching in the U.S. as there are many resources for educators to grow their skills and make an impact. It’s a joy to have people in your life who help to make your days better and so new friendships and my church community have played a major role.
The most rewarding plus is being able to share elements of Jamaican culture through language, music, food and history which has helped enrich my learning environment. My students enjoy learning and speaking Jamaican Creole or “Patio” and we always have a blast speaking Jamaican Creole.
Are there differences between teaching in the U.S. and your home country?
Yes, there are definitely differences between teaching in the U.S. and Jamaica, though both countries share the goal of fostering education and growth in students. Both systems have their challenges and rewards, and each has its own unique approach to education. Some key differences include: classroom size, the availability of resources, culture, curriculum structure, parental involvement, teacher-students relationship and disciplinary approaches.
