Gunaseeli, an exceptional Special Education teacher, embarked on a remarkable journey from India to Ohio, USA. With nearly a decade of experience teaching in India and Dubai, she brought a wealth of international experience to her role as an Elementary Intervention Specialist exchange visitor teacher in the US. Through the US Department of State – BridgeUSA teacher cultural exchange program, exchange teachers sharpen their professional skills and participate in cross-cultural activities in schools and communities, and they return to their home school after the exchange to share their experiences and increased knowledge of the United States and the U.S. educational system.
Her motivation to become an international educator stemmed from a desire to contribute to a multicultural learning environment and support students from diverse backgrounds. The opportunity to be part of a community that values different perspectives and promotes global understanding was a driving force behind her decision to teach in the USA. Teaching in the USA has significantly shaped her approach as an educator. Embracing flexibility, inclusivity, and a strong focus on Individualized Instruction, she tailored teaching strategies to meet the diverse needs of her students. She also discovered the importance of incorporating cultural awareness into her academic practices, sharing her rich Indian heritage through vibrant dance lessons. Her international cultural experience also led her to explore the similarities and differences of school lunches! She fondly remembers the fresh, home-cooked style meals in Indian schools, reflecting local culinary traditions. In contrast, she was pleasantly surprised by the variety and emphasis on balanced meals in US school lunches, even though the flavors and ingredients were new to her palate. Her newest discoveries of US culture include enjoying leisure activities of Aqua Gym and PIckleball! One of her most cherished teaching moments occurred during a cultural exchange project where she introduced Indian dance to a group of American students. Witnessing the students’ curiosity and excitement as they embraced the dance steps was truly heartwarming. A particularly touching experience involved a student who typically struggled with focus and participation in academic settings but became fully engaged and enthusiastic during the dance lessons. This experience highlighted the transformative power of the arts in reaching students in unique and impactful ways.
Through teaching Indian dance, she actively incorporates elements of her own Indian culture into her teaching by integrating cultural elements into the curriculum, providing students with a hands-on experience of another culture, fostering creativity and cultural appreciation. She often connects these lessons to broader themes of history, geography, or literature, helping students see the interconnectedness of different cultures and their own lives. Her commitment to community involvement was also evident when her dance students performed at an old age nursing home, bringing joy and comfort to the elderly residents.
Dedication and innovative teaching methods have earned her well-deserved recognition. She was honored to receive the “MVP Award” for being a role model for American teachers and was proud to see many of her colleagues adopt the interactive classroom style that she pioneered. Her journey in the USA has been enriched by travels to almost 10 states, each offering unique experiences and insights. Immersing herself in a new culture has enhanced her adaptability and flexibility as an educator while broadening her worldview and enriching her understanding of global perspectives. She actively shares her experiences with friends and family back home, highlighting the interactive classroom techniques she has learned and the diverse cultural encounters she has had.
Her daughter, a global citizen, has also embraced their local community in Ohio by joining the National Honor Society and serving on the Student Council. As an active dancer and role model for good behavior, she exemplifies the positive impact of cultural exchange and community involvement. Gunaseeli’s journey as an international educator is a testament to the power of cultural exchange, adaptability, and a passion for teaching. Her story inspires educators and students alike to embrace diversity, celebrate their heritage, and create inclusive learning environments that foster global understanding.
Related Posts
Ruel's Rules: 5 Tips for Classroom Management
Teacher Feature: Vic Lorraine’s Journey from the Philippines to the U.S. Classroom
