Alumni Spotlight – Laura V.

This month, we are thrilled to shine the spotlight on Laura V., a dedicated educator from Honduras. Over the course of five years in the Ambassador Teacher Program, Laura embarked on a transformative journey, teaching at an elementary school in Burlington, North Carolina. After returning to her home country, she has continued to pursue her passion for teaching, making a profound impact on students in Honduras.

Join us as we reconnect with Laura, explore her professional growth, and reminisce about her most cherished memories from her time in the program. Get ready to be inspired by Laura’s incredible journey!

Reflecting on Her Experience Teaching in the U.S.

Q: What schools did you teach at, and when?
A: I taught second grade at Marvin B. Smith Elementary School for all five years of the Ambassador Teacher Program (2017-2022).

Q: What inspired you to apply to teach in the U.S.?
A: My desire to share my Honduran culture with students in the U.S. inspired me to become an Ambassador Teacher.

Q: What did you enjoy most about your time teaching in the U.S.?
A: One of the most rewarding aspects of my experience was how open the dual language programs were to all students who wanted to learn a new language. It was a joy to share Spanish with them and see their excitement for learning.

What Life Looks Like Now

Q: Where are you now? Are you living in your home country or elsewhere?
A: After completing the Ambassador Teacher Program last year, I moved to Tegucigalpa, Honduras.

Q: Are you still working in education, or have you changed career paths?
A: Yes, I am still working in education. I currently teach preschool at the preparatory level at Pinares Academy, a Honduran school with various educational accreditations.

Q: Do you have any other life updates you’d like to share with the Participate Learning Network?
A: I love sharing my experiences from my time as an Ambassador Teacher—I constantly recommend the program to fellow educators and friends!

Favorite Memories from the U.S.

• I completed all five years of the Ambassador Teacher Program, graduating last year.
• One of my favorite trips was traveling to Virginia with my whole family.
• My class won the Read-A-Thon award for the most minutes read—such a proud moment!
• My husband was able to join me in the U.S. after three years, which was an incredible experience.
• A truly special moment was welcoming my baby while teaching in the U.S.

Interested in connecting with Laura and following her journey? Connect with her on X here.