Each year, hundreds of dedicated educators take a bold step toward personal and professional transformation by applying to become Ambassador Teachers with Participate Learning. Long before they arrive in the U.S., these teachers begin a journey fueled by purpose—to share their culture, inspire young minds, and grow as global leaders.
At Participate Learning, we understand that teaching abroad is about building a life in a new country, in a new community, with new challenges and opportunities. That’s why we support international teachers at every stage of the process, from application through classroom success.
With more than 35 years of experience and a commitment to comprehensive, personalized support, we ensure that Ambassador Teachers feel prepared, confident, and connected before they ever set foot in a U.S. classroom. This blog post will walk you through how Participate Learning supports Ambassador Teachers—from your first application steps to your continued growth throughout your teaching journey.
Becoming an Ambassador Teacher begins with a thoughtful, multi-step application process designed to match the right educators with the right opportunities. Participate Learning reviews each application carefully, looking for passionate, experienced teachers who are ready to grow as cultural ambassadors and global educators.
Once you’ve been accepted into the program and have accepted a teaching position, you’ll begin preparing for your move to the U.S. with a comprehensive online orientation, a unique feature of Participate Learning’s support model. This pre-departure training equips you with the tools, knowledge, and confidence needed to thrive in both your personal life and your professional role.
During online orientation, you’ll have access to:
From navigating housing and budgeting to planning your classroom and integrating cultural elements into your teaching, Participate Learning guides you every step of the way. And most importantly, you won’t do it alone. You’ll join a vibrant network of educators on the same journey, forming a supportive community before you even board the plane.
After months of preparation, the moment finally arrives: You travel to the U.S. and begin the next chapter of your teaching journey as an Ambassador Teacher. Even after you land, Participate Learning is there to support you.
From the moment you step off the plane, our team is ready to welcome you at the airport and ensure a smooth transition. You’ll attend an in-person onboarding with fellow initial-term teachers, where you’ll put your learning into practice and get the tools you need to succeed in your new environment.
In-person onboarding includes:
Take a look at this year’s Arrival Orientation in this video!
This orientation is about more than logistics. It’s also about setting the tone for a successful, fulfilling experience. You’ll walk away feeling more confident in your role, connected to a network of peers, and ready to make an impact in your school.
By the time fall arrives, initial-term Ambassador Teachers have already faced the exciting—and sometimes overwhelming—realities of living and teaching in the U.S. That’s why Fall Orientation is such a pivotal moment and an important part of how Participate Learning supports Ambassador Teachers. It’s a chance to pause, reflect, and recharge.
Held a few months into the school year, Fall Orientation brings teachers together to reconnect, share experiences, and deepen their growth as global educators. We design this event around three core goals:
Adjusting to a new country, culture, and school environment can be challenging. Fall Orientation offers time and space for teachers to reflect on their first few months and share their journeys with others. Through group discussions and collaborative problem-solving, teachers walk away with new strategies for classroom management, instruction, and self-care.
Importantly, they also find comfort in realizing they’re not alone. Shared experiences around culture shock and adjustment build empathy, resilience, and a strong sense of community.
As cultural exchange teachers, Ambassador Teachers play a critical role in shaping global awareness and career readiness in their students. At Fall Orientation, teachers learn how to bring global learning into everyday instruction in ways that build durable, future-ready skills, like communication, adaptability, and problem-solving.
Through hands-on sessions and collaborative planning, teachers explore how to design classroom experiences that encourage students to think critically, embrace differences, and take meaningful action in their communities. These aren’t just lessons; they’re opportunities for students to practice the skills they’ll need in a competitive workforce.
Fall Orientation also introduces initial-term teachers to experienced Ambassador Teachers who serve as mentors and session facilitators. These veteran educators share stories, strategies, and encouragement, proving that not only is it possible to thrive in a new environment, but that it’s also deeply rewarding. For newer teachers, these role models offer a powerful reminder of what’s possible. For experienced educators, it’s a chance to lead and give back.
Whether it’s discovering a new teaching technique, feeling seen and supported, or gaining clarity on your purpose, the Fall Orientation experience is designed to fuel long-term success in your classroom and your career.
At Participate Learning, our commitment to Ambassador Teachers doesn’t stop after Fall Orientation; it continues throughout your entire time in the U.S. Our comprehensive support system is designed to ensure you feel empowered, connected, and equipped every step of the way.
From the moment you arrive to the day you complete your term (and beyond), you’ll have access to an extensive network of resources and people who are invested in your success.
Support includes:
You’ll also be part of a vibrant global educator community. Through Participate Learning’s online platform, you can connect with other Ambassador Teachers, collaborate on lessons, and share the ups and downs of teaching abroad. Whether you’re looking for professional advice or just a bit of encouragement, there’s always someone ready to help.
This comprehensive support helps you focus on what matters most: creating transformative experiences for your students and making the most of your own journey.
When teachers feel supported, empowered, and connected, they thrive—and so do their students. At Participate Learning, we’ve seen how comprehensive support transforms the experiences of international educators, helping them grow as professionals and global leaders while enriching the lives of thousands of students.
Hear from Ambassador Teacher Cecilia as she describes her early experiences adjusting to life in the U.S. With guidance from Participate Learning staff and encouragement from fellow educators, she built confidence, found community, and stepped into her role as a cultural ambassador and mentor. Her story is a powerful reminder that through perseverance and resilience, you can realize your dream of teaching in the U.S.
Participate Learning also regularly highlights the collective impact of Ambassador Teachers. From leading schoolwide celebrations supporting career readiness to helping students see themselves as part of a bigger world, these educators are role models for global leadership. Through their work, students develop empathy, curiosity, and critical thinking, skills that are essential for success in any future career.
These stories are just a few examples of how Ambassador Teachers experience personal and professional growth during their time abroad. When you join Participate Learning’s program, you’ll be empowered to make a meaningful difference in your students’ lives from the moment you arrive.
If you’re an international teacher ready to grow professionally, explore a new culture, and make a lasting difference in the lives of students, there’s a place for you in the Participate Learning community.
From your very first day of orientation to your first day in the classroom and beyond, we’ll be by your side. With personalized guidance, high-quality training, and a welcoming network of fellow educators, you’ll feel confident and supported as you grow in your teaching role and embrace your new life in the U.S.
Are you ready to take the next step in your international teaching journey?
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