For the 2024-25 school year, Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) partnered with Participate Learning to hire 40 Ambassador Teachers. During the summer, these experienced educators from around the globe embarked on an exciting journey with LCPS. They arrived to fanfare at the LCPS Administration building for onboarding, were greeted by the Lightridge High School marching band and received welcome bags with LCPS branded items.
Hailing from Africa, Jamaica, South America and the Philippines, the Ambassador Teachers are currently working in 15 elementary schools as classroom and English Learner teachers for up to five years with visa sponsorship through the partnership. As experienced educators in their native countries, these Ambassador Teachers are providing their school communities with exciting, rich and diverse experiences by sharing not only their knowledge but also their culture.
One of the Ambassador Teachers is Norben Agas from the Philippines who is teaching fourth grade at Sully Elementary. “LCPS offers significant layers of support to newly hired teachers, including mentorship both inside and outside the school building,” Mr. Agas said. “This support is crucial, especially for teachers like me who are coming from another country. We have to make many adjustments to the curriculum and adapt to a new school culture. The comprehensive support system provided by LCPS makes this transition smoother and more manageable, which was a key factor in my decision to take this opportunity.”
To assist with their transition to the U.S., each Ambassador Teacher is paired with a Community Advisor, typically substitute teachers or parents in the community, to help them get acclimated.
“So far, my experience has been filled with significant moments that have pushed me outside my comfort zone. I’ve had to open myself up to a variety of new perspectives, which has been both challenging and rewarding,” added Mr. Agas. “I value that LCPS is located in a safe and secure county. The community here is open to cultural diversity, and I have felt fully welcomed and accepted. This inclusive environment has made my transition smoother and more enjoyable.”
When asked what he’d say to other educators considering the Ambassador Teacher Program, he said, “If you’re considering an opportunity like this, I would highly encourage you to take it. If you’re looking for an enriching experience that pushes you outside your comfort zone while offering significant professional growth and development, LCPS is the place for you. LCPS allows you to share your heritage while embracing new experiences and opportunities in a different cultural setting. The county provides extensive support to teachers, especially ambassador teachers, ensuring we are well taken care of. The environment here is conducive to both personal and professional growth, making it a rewarding experience overall.
LCPS is excited about the partnership with Participate Learning and looks to increase the number of Ambassador Teachers through this collaboration in future years.