Educators Going Global

Who is the go-to resource for the lowdown on the current state of international school recruiting? Thanks to an introduction from super-connector Laura Light, we were fortunate enough to connect with one of the best-placed people for answers to our recruiting questions. Pauline O'Brien is the Global Recruitment Business Strategy Development Director at International School Services (ISS). We peppered Pauline with questions to help our listeners deepen their understanding of where things stand concerning recruiting and other trends in international education. Pauline has 20+ years of experience in professional recruiting, client service, and school board relations in international education. She has designed multi-faceted learning opportunities for international schools, which include competency-based recruiting strategies, skills-based interviewing methods, and STAR application profiles. Pauline has served on the International Task Force for Child Protection and has been a board member of Women’s Business Initiative International and ACCESS in the Netherlands. Originally from Ireland, Pauline resides with her family in the Netherlands, where she studied international business in Dutch.The guiding question was, "What are recent changes and trends in international school recruiting?"Here are some of the many topics that Pauline spoke to: Pauline's background in the corporate world brings new perspectives to how international schools approach their work. Child safeguarding continues to be a key trend. Recruiting should be about evaluating candidates' skills and aptitudes.Pauline mentioned some of the services that ISS offers,  including learning materials to help with recruiting. Listen to the interview with Nadine Richards and Dana Specker Watts for more on this.We compared virtual fairs during the COVID lockdown with in-person recruitment fairs. The recruiting "season" is now year-round. ISS is working with schools to diversify their recruiting outreach. ISS offers orientation activities for first-time applicants at its fairs . Be ready with targeted, relevant questions during interviews. Our profiling tool can help with this.Veterans: avoid being overconfident - so much in recruiting has changed recently. Many international educators left China during the COVID lockdown; some are now returning.  We discussed the nature of so-called “hardship posts”. A few related trends concern health insurance, well-being, support for staff, PD, and crisis management.Remember to access our Educators Going Global website for more information or to subscribe to our newsletter!Email us with comments or suggestions at educatorsgoingglobal@gmail.com Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram or YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast app: connect from our share page.Music: YouTube. (2022). Acoustic Guitar | Folk | No copyright | 2022❤️. YouTube. Retrieved October 11, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOEmg_6i7jA.

!Hola a todos! You are in for a real treat today. We were fortunate enough to speak with Michael Adams, Executive Director of the TRI Association. This is an association of schools in Mexico, Central America, Colombia, and the Caribbean. Michael embodies the spirit of community, connection, and sharing that supports the TRI mission. He also represents yet another current and ex-HOS that is genuine, dedicated, and wise in their leadership. Starting with his own Going Global Story and then throughout the interview, Michael demonstrated warmth and humanity that clearly reflected the vibe of the part of the world that is his chosen home.A few of the topics covered in the interview: The role and mission of TRITRI initiatives and activitiesWhen recruiting to the region, what can one expect regarding school cultures, practices, positives, and challenges. Topics and trends for the region going forwardDr. Adams is a long-time LATAM leader, educator, administrator, colleague, and friend!! More importantly, he is a very proud husband (going on 36 years with Clara Rico), father of three adult boys (David, Nicolas, and Tomas), and grandfather of two amazing little boys (Eduardo and Lucas)! After growing up as a TCK in Tokyo, Japan, attending ASIJ, and then going for his undergrad degree and graduate school in Texas, Michael has spent the past 33 years in Colombia and Mexico, an experience that has made him the person he is today: a true global citizen! Our two different guiding questions were, “What does the TRI Association do, and how can educators access its services?” This episode was recorded on November 6, 2023.Contact Information: TRI Association Contact Page Resources Mentioned in the Episode: TRI AssociationErma Anderson: Math in International SchoolsCategories: School Life | Recruiting Remember to access our Educators Going Global website for more information or to subscribe to our newsletter!Email us with comments or suggestions at educatorsgoingglobal@gmail.com Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram or YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast app: connect from our share page.Music: YouTube. (2022). Acoustic Guitar | Folk | No copyright | 2022❤️. YouTube. Retrieved October 11, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOEmg_6i7jA.

What happens when you speak with two leaders in the field of educational technology? You learn a lot! We were fortunate to speak with Dan Taylor and John Mikton, who, in their spare time, host the big dog of international education podcasting, The International Schools Podcast.Dan has been involved in the Google for Education community since 2006 and is the founder and director of AppsEvents, a Google-based PD provider. He has trained educators across the globe from El Salvador to Vietnam. John currently serves as the Primary Technology for Learning Coordinator at the International School of Geneva – La Châtaigneraie. John’s journey as an educator has spanned Africa, Asia, and Europe. Of those years, 18 have been in school leadership roles, particularly in educational technology leadership. In addition to his coordinator role, John works as a trainer and course designer at the Principal Training Center / Teacher Training Center and as a coach for the Faria Education Group. We asked the guiding question “What does technology use in teaching and learning look like post-pandemic and what it might look like going forward?” John and Dan responded with so many helpful insights! Here are a few: The pandemic was an example of the power of disruption to bring about change and innovationA focus on well-being has emergedWe have the technology for the next possible need to go virtual, so going forward, the focus is on the plans, structures, connections, and policies to support the students, teachers, and parents. There has been an expansion in online schools, and also in hybrid and blended learning. It is still early to say where we stand with Generative AI. The driving question should be, what is the “value add” of schools when we have GenAI? Personalizing professional and personal learning are still critical goals for schools.Lessons learned from hosting the International Schools Podcast: Look to start your own podcast; it’s a great way to share your ideas, and it’s not that hard! And as a host, you learn so much!There are concerns about social media and how they lead to divisive behaviors. However, on a positive note, social media can help grow one’s professional brand. There are also concerns about the ongoing teacher shortage.Dan and John then reversed the course of the interview to ask us questions about the Educators Going Global podcast. We had fun comparing notes! This episode was recorded on November 12, 2023.John’s Contact Information: LinkedIn | Beyond DigitalDan’s Contact Information: LRemember to access our Educators Going Global website for more information or to subscribe to our newsletter!Email us with comments or suggestions at educatorsgoingglobal@gmail.com Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram or YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast app: connect from our share page.Music: YouTube. (2022). Acoustic Guitar | Folk | No copyright | 2022❤️. YouTube. Retrieved October 11, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOEmg_6i7jA.

Sometimes we happen to read articles and blog posts that ring true to us. Occasionally, we may even think, “Hey, this author could be talking about me and my experiences!” Well, guess what? I had this sensation when reading an article in TIEonline entitled “My Identity as an International Educator.” The article really nailed the character strengths, dispositions, and experiences of individuals who “go global” to teach. I shared the article with Audrey and said, “Let’s get the author, Sandy Sheppard, on the podcast” to help our listeners further build their understanding of what it means to be an international educator. Fortunately, Sandy said yes to our request for an interview.There were many takeaways from our interview with Sandy. One that may not become apparent to many of us until we have been “away from home” for a while is the extent to which international educators are “different.” We discussed these differences and how they impacted Sandy when she repatriated to New Zealand and attempted to resume her teaching career “back home.” If you have tried something similar, you may be able to connect with how she felt about what ensued.Sandy is an international educator who was born and raised in New Zealand. Sandy embarked on her international career three decades ago in Jakarta, Indonesia. Presently, she serves as an Elementary Principal in the vibrant city of Yangon, Myanmar. Sandy has raised two children internationally and advocates for the profound impact of high-quality international education in shaping future global citizens poised to enact positive change in the world. Our guiding question was, “What does it mean to be an international educator?”.Sandy touched on many themes that we know our veteran international educator listeners will be able to connect with!This episode was recorded on October 3, 2023.Contact Information: LinkedIn | Instagram: Sandy Lee SheppardResources Mentioned in the Episode: My Identity as an International Educator article in TIEonline. Categories: School Life | TransitionsRemember to access our Educators Going Global website for more information or to subscribe to our newsletter!Email us with comments or suggestions at educatorsgoingglobal@gmail.com Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram or YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast app: connect from our share page.Music: YouTube. (2022). Acoustic Guitar | Folk | No copyright | 2022❤️. YouTube. Retrieved October 11, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOEmg_6i7jA.

Are you looking to move into administration at some point? Do you know what it takes? Fortunately, we have lots of advice for you with our guest Dr. Gregory Moncada. Dr. Moncada is the Head of School for the Harare International School (HIS) in Zimbabwe and was previously the founding director of the Qatar Academy for Science and Technology (QAST), the Qatar Foundations’ new Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) school. Prior to his leading role at HIS and QAST, Dr. Moncada started new schools and programs throughout his career, including a progressive middle school based on the “This We Believe’ model and district-wide STEM programs in Elementary, Middle, and High School settings.  Dr. Moncada specializes in developing student-centered learning models, progressive learning models, and multiverse organizational structures between schools and organizations. With more than 30 years of experience, Greg has held teaching and leadership positions in International schools in Spain, Austria, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa, as well as in Seattle, Washington, and in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Greg holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Minnesota, an MA in Leadership from Lehigh University, PA, and an MA in Science Education from Louisiana State University.Our guiding question was, “What is involved in moving from a teaching to an administrative position?”Greg outlines how to be intentional in your efforts by putting yourself in positions that grow your leadership skills. Greg highlights specific milestones to aim for with your efforts.Once you gain leadership skills and experience, the next step is to recruit for positions. Again, Greg offers practical advice, including how to prepare for interviews. Greg traces the interviewing timeline, highlighting some red flags to be wary of. He covers what happens when the offer comes in and shares advice about when you might need to say “no” to a position. Don’t forget to also listen to our other interview with Greg, in which he offers advice and firsthand experience around recruiting to become a head of school. This episode was recorded on July 11, 2023.Remember to access our Educators Going Global website for more information or to subscribe to our newsletter!Email us with comments or suggestions at educatorsgoingglobal@gmail.com Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram or YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast app: connect from our share page.Music: YouTube. (2022). Acoustic Guitar | Folk | No copyright | 2022❤️. YouTube. Retrieved October 11, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOEmg_6i7jA.

Support dogs positively influence our emotional state. So why not bring trained service dogs into schools?Meet 3 international educators who have begun support dogprograms: Brenda Manfredi (International School of Prague) has worked in New York, Bangkok, Thailand, and Hanoi, Vietnam. She and her family now live in Prague, Czech Republic.Program Description: ISP’s support dog program began after the COVID shutdown.  It supports students and teachers and comprises two support dogs, Brodie and Sundae, who work out of ISP’s student life center and are shared by all counselors. The dogs are invited to many school activities, and they are featured in ISP’s admissions and advancement information. Jackie Valenzuela (International School Bangkok) moved from Seattle to Bangkok in  2010. She spent two years at NIST, where Brenda worked, then moved to ISB in 2012. Program Description: ISB’s Panther Pups program includes Charlie, Xena, Poe Poe, and Simba. The program began as post-Covid support of the HS students and faculty and has expanded to the MS and ES divisions. With their handler, the dogs visit classrooms, walk the halls during passing time, hang out in the counseling office, and attend school events! Ian Lally (The International School Nido de Aguilas): Ian was a counselor in New York for two years before moving to Berlin, Germany, where he worked for five years.  He has now lived in Santiago, Chile for nearly 11 years.  Program Description: Students interact with the dogs in the counseling office as needed, in the classroom during a lesson or pre- or post-assessment, by checking out a dog for a walk, or through the Paws for Pawsitivity club. Teachers can invite a dog to class or check one out for their personal wellness. The guiding question for the episode was, “What does a support dog program look like at an international school, and how might a school set one up?”Brenda, Jackie, and Ian each explained their programs and offered  tips for other international educators:Dogs attract students to the counseling offices and provide a calming presence during sessions. A program description is essential; a dog authorization system  involving experienced trainers must be in place. Mindful scheduling is critical to the dogs' wellbeing. Scientific research can support the case for bringing service dogs into schools. Forming a club helps students gain responsibility and social awareness. This episode was recorded on August 6, 2023. Contact Info:Brenda’s Program: Instagram > foxy.sundae | bmanfredi@isp.czIan’s Program: Instagram>  Remember to access our Educators Going Global website for more information or to subscribe to our newsletter!Email us with comments or suggestions at educatorsgoingglobal@gmail.com Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram or YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast app: connect from our share page.Music: YouTube. (2022). Acoustic Guitar | Folk | No copyright | 2022❤️. YouTube. Retrieved October 11, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOEmg_6i7jA.

What character strengths and dispositions help international educators start their going global journey to sustain them through the ups and downs of teaching and living internationally? We learned firsthand from our guest, Jessica Simmons, who shared a multi-part Going Global Story that models these traits. Jessica Simmons is from Melbourne, Australia. She has over 19 years of experience as a qualified educator. Working as a drama and humanities teacher across schools in various states of Australia and China (albeit only remotely), she also has over nine years of leadership experience. During a hiatus from teaching, she worked in the Museum and Local Government sectors for ten years (and had two children). Her most recent positions include Head of Arts at an independent school in regional Australia and Director of Performing Arts for Wellington College, Hangzhou, China. She has a Master’s of Education from Melbourne University, a Bachelor of Arts (Drama), and a Bachelor of Education (Secondary). A keen netballer, hiker, reader, and theatre-goer, she loves to spend the weekend exploring new places with her husband and children. Her next adventure will be in Abuja, Nigeria, where she is moving in July  2023 to teach Performing Arts at the American International School of Abuja - with her husband and two children (aged 9 and 13) in tow.The guiding question for the episode was, “How did you use tenacity, grit, and perseverance in your quest to become an international educator?”We discussed Jessica’s four-year journey in and out of international education. Along the way, we learned of her experiences through the pandemic and, more recently, teaching in Australia while pursuing the international teaching lifestyle. An added bonus is hearing from Jessica’s husband and two children, who shared their thoughts about the upcoming move to West Africa.  This episode was recorded on June 24, 2023. Jessica’s Contact Information: | Email: jessica.anne.simmons@gmail.com | Jessica writes at Medium. Here is a direct link to her account. Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Jacqueline Mallais, International Teacher Consultant Doug Ota’s book Safe PassageDisc Personality Assessment:  Remember to access our Educators Going Global website for more information or to subscribe to our newsletter!Email us with comments or suggestions at educatorsgoingglobal@gmail.com Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram or YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast app: connect from our share page.Music: YouTube. (2022). Acoustic Guitar | Folk | No copyright | 2022❤️. YouTube. Retrieved October 11, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOEmg_6i7jA.

David and Audrey recorded a brief episode to explain that we are pausing for the summer. Additionally, we made a request for suggested topics or guests.Finally, we also reminded our listeners that listening to the podcast on their phones is an option to explore. Here are some instructions on how to do so. Have a relaxing summer, everyone!Remember to access our Educators Going Global website for more information or to subscribe to our newsletter!Email us with comments or suggestions at educatorsgoingglobal@gmail.com Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram or YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast app: connect from our share page.Music: YouTube. (2022). Acoustic Guitar | Folk | No copyright | 2022❤️. YouTube. Retrieved October 11, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOEmg_6i7jA.

Please note: We had a lot of trouble with the audio quality of this recording, but it gets better after the first three minutes. Please keep listening!Have you ever considered all that goes into the search for a new Head of School? We were excited for this opportunity to learn more about this very important aspect of recruiting for international schools.Dr. Brent Mutsch joined us to outline the Head of School/Director/Superintendent search process led by Search Associates. Dr. Mutsch currently serves as a Senior Consultant at Search Associates, focusing on assisting international schools with Director/Head of School/Superintendent searches. Brent joined Search Associates in August of 2017 after having served as the Superintendent of the International Schools Group and Saudi Aramco Schools in Saudi Arabia, Singapore American School in Singapore, and the American School of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates over the course of his 23-year career in international education.Brent provided insights on:His journey to become a Senior Consultant at Search specializing in leadership searches.The timeline – from start to finish – of the typical Head of School search. The recruiting process from the applicant’s perspective. The recruiting process from the perspective of the school community. (e.g., the school board, the parents, the students, the teachers, and the admin team)The finalizing of applicants and their visits to the school.  Transition support for new Heads of School. The value-add for HoS candidates of having some form of international education experience. The future of leadership searches. Our guiding question was, “What does the process of a search for a Head of School as led by Search Associates look like?”This episode was recorded on April 1, 2023.Contact Information: Search Associates WebsiteCategories: Recruiting Remember to access our Educators Going Global website for more information or to subscribe to our newsletter!Email us with comments or suggestions at educatorsgoingglobal@gmail.com Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram or YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast app: connect from our share page.Music: YouTube. (2022). Acoustic Guitar | Folk | No copyright | 2022❤️. YouTube. Retrieved October 11, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOEmg_6i7jA.

Building a community is a massive undertaking — especially when that community spans the globe!Ron Rosenow is the founder and driving force behind the International School Community website. He joins us to share how his “baby” has significantly grown over the past 12 years!Ron’s mission is to create the ultimate online platform for international school educators, where they can connect, collaborate, and share insights with like-minded professionals from around the globe.Ron provided insights onThe origin of the ISC website and his reasons for starting it.How the ISC works, including specific features to gather and share information with community members. Some of his favorite moments related to the site and to the community.His plans for the future of the site. Our guiding question was, “What is the International School Community network and how does it support international educators?”This episode was recorded on March 17, 2023.Contact Information: International School Community is on multiple social networks. It is well worth joining!Categories: School Life | Recruiting Remember to access our Educators Going Global website for more information or to subscribe to our newsletter!Email us with comments or suggestions at educatorsgoingglobal@gmail.com Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram or YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast app: connect from our share page.Music: YouTube. (2022). Acoustic Guitar | Folk | No copyright | 2022❤️. YouTube. Retrieved October 11, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOEmg_6i7jA.

You may recognize the name Julia Walker from her TCK/CCK podcast, Across Oceans.Julia is an adult third culture/cross-cultural kid, a child of international educators, and a fellow podcaster. She grew up in Canada, Egypt, and Singapore before returning to Canada for university. Now, she is completing her Master’s degree in Environmental Science in Switzerland. When she is not studying or hiking in the mountains, she hosts her podcast Across Oceans, discussing everything related to TCKs/CCKs with various guests. The guiding question for the episode was, “What is it like growing up the child of international educators?”As teacher-parents, we enjoyed hearing Julia’s insights about what it means to be an “Ed Kid” growing up internationally. We discussed the positives and negatives of growing up as a teacher’s kid. Julia shared some funny stories, and we chimed in with a couple of our own. We unpacked ways that parents can acknowledge and support the cross-cultural nature of their children. Julia also outlined the purpose and next steps for her Across Oceans podcast. This episode was recorded on January 13, 2023. Julia’s Contact Information: Across Oceans Podcast | Instagram | Email: acrossoceanspodcast@gmail.comResources Mentioned in the Episode:Julia is a guest writer on JPMint ConsultingTeachers On the Move with Children Facebook GroupThird Culture Kids: Growing Up Among Worlds - This most recent version of the classic book on “TCKs” focuses on the modern TCK to address the impact of technology, cultural complexity, diversity & inclusion, and transitions.Remember to access our Educators Going Global website for more information or to subscribe to our newsletter!Email us with comments or suggestions at educatorsgoingglobal@gmail.com Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram or YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast app: connect from our share page.Music: YouTube. (2022). Acoustic Guitar | Folk | No copyright | 2022❤️. YouTube. Retrieved October 11, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOEmg_6i7jA.

Talk about a Cross-Cultural Kid!Harry Qian is an undergraduate at UC Berkeley planning to study Physics. He has Chinese blood flowing in his veins, grew up along the banks of River Tiber in Italy, and received his education at an American International School in Rome. During his downtime at Berkeley, he volunteers in an aid organization, connects with other ethnic-Chinese students in a university-based club, and regularly holds “Harry’s Review Sessions,” helping his friends with their academic work.The guiding question for the episode was, “what does it mean to be a Third Culture Kid/TCK (aka Cross-Cultural Kid)? ”Harry described growing up as a Chinese National in Italy while attending an international school. He outlined the differences among the worlds in which he lives. We also discussed what attributes Harry gained from living in these cultures and how those characteristics support him now as a college student. Harry provided some tips for teachers of cross-cultural students while also advising his fellow student travelers as they make the jump to university life.  This episode was recorded on January 10, 2023. Remember to access our Educators Going Global website for more information or to subscribe to our newsletter!Email us with comments or suggestions at educatorsgoingglobal@gmail.com Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram or YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast app: connect from our share page.Music: YouTube. (2022). Acoustic Guitar | Folk | No copyright | 2022❤️. YouTube. Retrieved October 11, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOEmg_6i7jA.

Did you know that teacher candidates in selected U.S. universities can do their student teaching overseas? What an opportunity, right! We decided to learn more about this option by speaking with Dr. Danielle Carrier who is an associate professor of curriculum and instruction at the University of Southern Mississippi. Danielle recently graduated from the University of Georgia with a Ph.D. in Educational Theory and Practice. Before her doctoral study, Danielle was an elementary school teacher in Connecticut, the District of Columbia, Singapore, and Texas. Currently, Danielle teaches undergraduate courses to teacher candidates majoring in elementary education. Her areas of expertise include teacher education, teacher identity development, and educational equity. Since returning from teaching abroad in Singapore at the Singapore American School in 2014, Dannielle has sought ways to encourage teacher candidates to teach internationally. Dr. Carrier is a strong advocate for international teaching as the opportunities and rewards provided to teachers and host communities are a positive life-changer.Our guiding question for the episode was, “What does teaching overseas look like for teacher candidates in university who are enrolled in your program?”In this episode, we discussed the Consortium of Overseas Student Teaching (COST) program is a collaboration of 16 colleges and universities in the United States that provides opportunities for teacher candidates to student-teach overseas.This episode was recorded on December 12, 2022.  Danielle’s Contact Information: LinkedIn | Twitter: @DCarrier17Resources Mentioned in the Episode: The Consortium of Overseas Student Teaching (COST) program is a collaboration of 16 colleges and universities in the United States that provides opportunities for teacher candidates to student teach overseas. Danielle provided an overview of the program including a case study. She also described structures and systems used to support teacher candidates in their overseas placement. Remember to access our Educators Going Global website for more information or to subscribe to our newsletter!Email us with comments or suggestions at educatorsgoingglobal@gmail.com Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram or YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast app: connect from our share page.Music: YouTube. (2022). Acoustic Guitar | Folk | No copyright | 2022❤️. YouTube. Retrieved October 11, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOEmg_6i7jA.

 International Schools Services is an organization that provides, well, services for international schools. You may be familiar with their recruiting fairs, but ISS offers so much more than that. These two ladies helped us learn more about ISS. Nadine Richards is ISS’s Director of Leadership Searches. Previously, she served as a Teacher as well as in a variety of leadership roles in the USA and UAE. Nadine co-designed an Aspiring Leaders of Color Mentoring Program. Nadine co-chairs the Diversity Collaborative’s Advocacy Committee and has served as a member of the Excelle Executive, an empowering group of women executives in school leadership. She holds several degrees, advanced certifications, and licensures.Dr. Dana Specker Watts is the Learning, Research, and Outreach Director for International Schools Services. She has lived and worked in Hong Kong, India, and Thailand. She served as the founding Executive Director of WLead and as the Director of Innovation at 21st Century Learning International. Dana is a strong research professional with a PhD in educational leadership and administration. Dana’s current research focuses on empowering women and increasing diversity in leadership through professional learning.The guiding question for the episode is, “What is happening in the world of school services and recruitment?”Dana and Nadine discussed a few of the ISS programs, including Building PartnershipsEquity and Diversity Support and OutreachFinances and School ManagementGuiding Schools in Leadership SearchesDecisional, Human, and Social CapitalLeadership GrowthProfessional DevelopmentRecruiting and Coaching of Teacher and Administrative CandidatesStarting SchoolsWellness Program DevelopmentThis episode was recorded on December 13, 2022.  Dana’s Contact Information: LinkedIn: Dana Specker WattsTwitter @teachwattsNadine’s Contact Information:Instagram @nadine_inspiresLinkedIn Nadine RichardsTwitter @naywheelsResources Mentioned in the Episode: Association of International Educators - Leaders of Color (AIELOC) BIPOC Mentoring Program Dana’s DissertationISS EDUlearn Courses and Passport ISS Youtube VideoRemember to access our Educators Going Global website for more information or to subscribe to our newsletter!Email us with comments or suggestions at educatorsgoingglobal@gmail.com Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram or YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast app: connect from our share page.Music: YouTube. (2022). Acoustic Guitar | Folk | No copyright | 2022❤️. YouTube. Retrieved October 11, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOEmg_6i7jA.

Ghazi Gashut grew up as an international student who attended a large variety of international schools. He truly exemplifies what it is to be a TCK - a third culture kid, or someone who is not “from” the host country, but is not really “from” their country of passport either, hence “third culture”. Another, more recent term for this is “Cross-cultural kid”. Audrey was lucky enough to get to know Ghazi a little bit when he was in high school at the International Community School of Addis Ababa in Ethiopia. Currently, he is an international educator working in Germany. Being a TCK/ CCK has allowed him to appreciate the nuances of being a global citizen. He believes that you are what your experiences make you -- in which case, he must have had some pretty amazing experiences! Our guiding question for the episode was “how did growing up as a cross-cultural kid, a CCK, affect your personal development?” Ghazi shared the term “multi-local” as one aspect of being a cross-cultural student with many localities that one transitions through when growing up. He spoke to his increased adaptability and learning to let go of the previous places while being open to what new places offer. Empathy and seeing multiple perspectives were some of the other life skills he developed. Resources: TED Talk by Taiye Selasi.  Don’t Ask Where I am From, Ask Where I’m a Local. This episode was recorded on November 18, 2022. Remember to access our Educators Going Global website for more information or to subscribe to our newsletter!Email us with comments or suggestions at educatorsgoingglobal@gmail.com Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram or YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast app: connect from our share page.Music: YouTube. (2022). Acoustic Guitar | Folk | No copyright | 2022❤️. YouTube. Retrieved October 11, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOEmg_6i7jA.

In this three-part bonus series, we take a deep dive into some very important aspects of tax filing and nest egg building for American citizens.  Even if money is not your thing, this series will help you save a lot -- if it prompts you to, as our guest Jeff Devens suggests, start asking critical questions.The three parts of the series are: 1-How to file US taxes using legal levers to maximize your advantages. 2-How to pay as few taxes as possible on your investment earnings (also legally!) while also minimizing future taxes. 3-Making sure you qualify for Social Security and, more importantly, Medicare upon your retirement from teaching overseas.For the past 26 years, Dr. Jeff Devens has worked in international education as a school psychologist, counselor, and classroom educator. Jeff holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in Psychology and Social Studies Education and completed his Ph.D. in School Psychology in 2006. In 2014 Jeff served as a member of a Crisis Response Team (CRT) supporting an international school going through two simultaneous crises. This experience profoundly impacted his understanding of finances and the necessity to support fellow educators as a form of psychological financial first-aid. Jeff is currently in the process of completing his certification from Boston University as a Certified Financial Planner. Jeff’s wife, Nanette, is also an international educator (high school music). They have two children: Cylas, age 17, and Cora, age 13. During his “free” time, Jeff enjoys exercising and competing in Jiu Jitsu, having earned his black belt in 2018.  Our guiding question for the episode was, “What kinds of advice around taxation and retirement nest egg planning would you give to US Expats living overseas?”Our chat was US-centric, looking at the US tax system and what US international educators need to know to grow their nest egg, making the most of beneficial tax rules. You can open the slideshow listed in the resource section below and use the visuals to help clarify concepts as you listen to the episode. This episode was recorded on December 12, 2022.  Resources Mentioned in the Episode: Finances for International Educators  SlideshowRemember to access our Educators Going Global website for more information or to subscribe to our newsletter!Email us with comments or suggestions at educatorsgoingglobal@gmail.com Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram or YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast app: connect from our share page.Music: YouTube. (2022). Acoustic Guitar | Folk | No copyright | 2022❤️. YouTube. Retrieved October 11, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOEmg_6i7jA.

In this three-part bonus series, we take a deep dive into some very important aspects of tax filing and nest egg building for American citizens.  Even if money is not your thing, this series will help you save a lot -- if it prompts you to, as our guest Jeff Devens suggests, start asking critical questions.The three parts of the series are: 1-How to file US taxes using legal levers to maximize your advantages. 2-How to pay as few taxes as possible on your investment earnings (also legally!) while also minimizing future taxes. 3-Making sure you qualify for Social Security and, more importantly, Medicare upon your retirement from teaching overseas.For the past 26 years, Dr. Jeff Devens has worked in international education as a school psychologist, counselor, and classroom educator. Jeff holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in Psychology and Social Studies Education and completed his Ph.D. in School Psychology in 2006. In 2014 Jeff served as a member of a Crisis Response Team (CRT) supporting an international school going through two simultaneous crises. This experience profoundly impacted his understanding of finances and the necessity to support fellow educators as a form of psychological financial first-aid. Jeff is currently in the process of completing his certification from Boston University as a Certified Financial Planner. Jeff’s wife, Nanette, is also an international educator (high school music). They have two children: Cylas, age 17, and Cora, age 13. During his “free” time, Jeff enjoys exercising and competing in Jiu Jitsu, having earned his black belt in 2018.  Our guiding question for the episode was, “What kinds of advice around taxation and retirement nest egg planning would you give to US Expats living overseas?”Our chat was US-centric, looking at the US tax system and what US international educators need to know to grow their nest egg, making the most of beneficial tax rules. You can open the slideshow listed in the resource section below and use the visuals to help clarify concepts as you listen to the episode. This episode was recorded on December 12, 2022.  Resources Mentioned in the Episode: Finances for International Educators  SlideshowRemember to access our Educators Going Global website for more information or to subscribe to our newsletter!Email us with comments or suggestions at educatorsgoingglobal@gmail.com Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram or YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast app: connect from our share page.Music: YouTube. (2022). Acoustic Guitar | Folk | No copyright | 2022❤️. YouTube. Retrieved October 11, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOEmg_6i7jA.

In this three-part bonus series, we take a deep dive into some very important aspects of tax filing and nest egg building for American citizens.  Even if money is not your thing, this series will help you save a lot -- if it prompts you to, as our guest Jeff Devens suggests, start asking critical questions.The three parts of the series are: 1-How to file US taxes using legal levers to maximize your advantages. 2-How to pay as few taxes as possible on your investment earnings (also legally!) while also minimizing future taxes. 3-Making sure you qualify for Social Security and, more importantly, Medicare upon your retirement from teaching overseas.For the past 26 years, Dr. Jeff Devens has worked in international education as a school psychologist, counselor, and classroom educator. Jeff holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in Psychology and Social Studies Education and completed his Ph.D. in School Psychology in 2006. In 2014 Jeff served as a member of a Crisis Response Team (CRT) supporting an international school going through two simultaneous crises. This experience profoundly impacted his understanding of finances and the necessity to support fellow educators as a form of psychological financial first-aid. Jeff is currently in the process of completing his certification from Boston University as a Certified Financial Planner. Jeff’s wife, Nanette, is also an international educator (high school music). They have two children: Cylas, age 17, and Cora, age 13. During his “free” time, Jeff enjoys exercising and competing in Jiu Jitsu, having earned his black belt in 2018.  Our guiding question for the episode was, “What kinds of advice around taxation and retirement nest egg planning would you give to US Expats living overseas?”Our chat was US-centric, looking at the US tax system and what US international educators need to know to grow their nest egg, making the most of beneficial tax rules. You can open the slideshow listed in the resource section below and use the visuals to help clarify concepts as you listen to the episode. This episode was recorded on December 12, 2022.  Resources Mentioned in the Episode: Finances for International Educators  SlideshowRemember to access our Educators Going Global website for more information or to subscribe to our newsletter!Email us with comments or suggestions at educatorsgoingglobal@gmail.com Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram or YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast app: connect from our share page.Music: YouTube. (2022). Acoustic Guitar | Folk | No copyright | 2022❤️. YouTube. Retrieved October 11, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOEmg_6i7jA.

Jackie Scully joined us from New Jersey in the US for this episode. She is an experienced History & Psychology Teacher and is the  Creator & Host of The Teacher Story, which features her own story and interviews with teachers from around the world. Jackie is also the Co-founder of The Teacher Circle LinkedIn group, a global community to support teachers and others in education. She wants to elevate the voices of teaches and of others in education and put them at the forefront of education reform. The guiding question for the episode was, “what are you hearing from US and international teachers on how they are feeling about their careers as educators?”.We covered the mission and format of Jackie’s podcast, teacher stories about the challenges of teaching in the US, stories from national and international educators, and ideas for improving the American educational system. This episode was recorded on October 10, 2022.  Jackie’s Contact Information: Jackie’s Website | LinkedIn | Facebook & Instagram - @jackie.c.scullyCategories: Transitions | TrendsResources Mentioned in the Episode: The Teacher Story podcast on Spotify, which also can be found on the other major podcasting app platforms. Remember to access our Educators Going Global website for more information or to subscribe to our newsletter!Email us with comments or suggestions at educatorsgoingglobal@gmail.com Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram or YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast app: connect from our share page.Music: YouTube. (2022). Acoustic Guitar | Folk | No copyright | 2022❤️. YouTube. Retrieved October 11, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOEmg_6i7jA.

Who do you think of when it comes to educational leaders who stand out for their ideation, collaboration, innovation, and drive? I bet that Jeff Utecht is at the top of your list whether you went to one of his sessions at a conference or enjoyed his company at your school. From being one of the first educational bloggers, first international educational podcasters, to helping start the Learning 2.0 conference to co-creating the COETAIL network of professional learning groups to more recently co-creating the Shifting Schools consultancy company, Jeff has been a juggernaut of dynamic energy over the past two decades.Jeff is an educational consultant, instructional technologist, speaker, and podcaster. He also was previously an international educator working as a technology integrator in several schools. Jeff’s mission is to help educators to prepare students for their future, not our past. The guiding question for the episode is, “where do you see educational consultancy and professional/personal learning support going in the near term?”We covered so much in our interview. A few of the topics were:The research and work of the Shifting Schools team on student engagement techniques, providing choice within learning pathways while moving into hy-flex learning environments. The state of professional learning for teachers includes personal self-directed learning that engages retro-styled PLCs and podcast PD. Jeff unpacked this for us, while also touching on what those new to international education might experience when it comes to their personal growth in their new school communities. Jeff also extolled the work of his partner Tricia Friedman in designing instructional tools to scaffold learning, from leveraging the Google Workspace to teaching students collaboration skills, among others. Always the visionary, Jeff needed little prompting to expand on what might be on the horizon regarding teaching and learning. This future-looking episode was recorded on December 6, 2022. Jeff’s Contact Information:  Discover all the ways to follow Jeff on his Portfolio Resources Mentioned in the Episode:Mastodon.EduInternational School Organizations - See our Library Resources page and search by name (for example, ISS).Shifting SchoolsTikTokRemember to access our Educators Going Global website for more information or to subscribe to our newsletter!Email us with comments or suggestions at educatorsgoingglobal@gmail.com Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram or YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast app: connect from our share page.Music: YouTube. (2022). Acoustic Guitar | Folk | No copyright | 2022❤️. YouTube. Retrieved October 11, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOEmg_6i7jA.