Global Classrooms: Teaching, Learning, and Living Abroad with Justin Sheehan & Alyssa Smith Artwork

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Global Classrooms: Teaching, Learning, and Living Abroad with Justin Sheehan & Alyssa Smith

April 01, 2024 • David Harris • Season 1 • Episode 12

0:00 | 1:06:19

In this episode of the Teachers Forum, David sits down with Justin Sheehan and Alyssa Smith about their experiences living and teaching abroad. Justin shares his educational journey, from excelling academically but struggling with executive function, to becoming a STEM educator and teaching in Guadalajara, Mexico. Alyssa discusses her educational background, including her love for learning and the influence of libraries and community spaces. Both Justin and Alyssa explain how they transitioned from teaching in Chicago to teaching abroad, with Justin going to Guadalajara and Alyssa eventually ending up in London. The conversation explores the experiences of teaching in American schools abroad and the unique challenges and opportunities that arise. The importance of making connections and finding support is highlighted, as well as the differences between American schools and local educational systems.

The discussion also delves into the tuition and access to American schools abroad, as well as the cultural conflicts that can occur in diverse school environments. The challenges of equity, inclusion, and belonging are examined, along with the power dynamics that impact DEI work. The conversation also focuses on the unique challenges and opportunities faced by African American educators in international settings.

In this conversation, Alyssa and Justin discuss their experiences teaching abroad and the challenges and rewards that come with it. They talk about the importance of making connections and networking, as well as the need to do research and understand the cultural implications of living in a different country. They also discuss the impact of being a teacher of color in international schools and the importance of representation. The conversation challenges the notion of American exceptionalism and highlights the beauty of experiencing different cultures and embracing diversity.

If you would like to contact our guests to learn more about teaching abroad, you can follow Justin on Instagram @Gamerteach. You can email Alyssa Smith at alsmith112@gmail.com.

Resources/Articles mentioned in the episode:
Elite International Schools Have a Racism Problem

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