Celebrating Our Newest Participate Learning Teachers of the Year

Throughout the past school year, we have proudly witnessed our Ambassador Teachers demonstrate excellence in education. They have exceeded expectations by fostering meaningful learning experiences that expand young minds, connect communities, and inspire a brighter future. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to these exceptional educators for their unwavering commitment to fostering global understanding.

Knowing that teachers like these are shaping the next generation of global leaders, we conclude this school year feeling inspired and hopeful for a future rooted in connection and understanding. This year, Participate Learning has recognized three outstanding Ambassador Teachers as our 2021 Teachers of the Year. Congratulations to our honorees!

Meet Our Ambassador Teachers of the Year

Yanela Ferrer

Yanela Ferrer, a third-year Ambassador Teacher from Argentina, teaches in a dual-language, first-grade classroom at Marvin B. Smith Elementary in the Alamance-Burlington School System in North Carolina. As a seasoned educator, Yanela has dedicated her expertise to supporting fellow teachers in meaningful ways.

Whether offering tutorials on tech tools, presenting global themes at summit sessions, or mentoring first-year Ambassador Teachers as a local adviser, Yanela has consistently gone above and beyond to serve her community. Reflecting on her work, Yanela shares, “Being part of educator communities and being connected with fellow educators is my passion. Connect the world, and make it better.”

Maria Florencia Guida

Maria Florencia Guida, a second-year Ambassador Teacher from Argentina, teaches Spanish and Conexiones to middle school students at Sun Valley Middle School in Union County, North Carolina. Over the last year, Maria has created countless opportunities for her students to collaborate, innovate, and form connections as they grow into confident leaders.

From facilitating conversations with colleagues and coordinating student pen pals in other countries to hosting meetings with international ambassadors and speaking at conferences, Maria has highlighted the value of global connections to everyone she engages with. As her assistant principal notes, “Ms. Guida’s drive remains unparalleled, and her courage to build long-lasting relationships is unwavering as she continues to strive for success within the school community.”

Paul Guille

Paul Guille, a third-year Ambassador Teacher from the United Kingdom, teaches fourth grade at Douglas Elementary in Wake County, North Carolina. Inspired by events that sparked conversations about fairness for all and understanding, Paul committed himself to self-education and collaboration with peers over the past year.

Paul’s dedication to fostering a welcoming classroom environment has allowed him to celebrate and uplift the identities of every student. Reflecting on his work, Paul shares, “These meetings are some of the most meaningful opportunities I have had this year to connect with like-minded educators while doing work that has been among the most important of my career.”

A Heartfelt Congratulations

Participate Learning is proud to recognize and celebrate all of our Ambassador Teachers for their ongoing dedication to their students, schools, and communities across the United States. Your efforts create welcoming and inspiring learning environments where students can grow into compassionate, curious, and thoughtful leaders.Congratulations, once again, to our three Teacher of the Year recipients! For more information on how you can teach in the U.S.A. with Participate Learning, visit our web page.