International exchange and research opportunities for classroom teachers

Grants are available for educators to participate in international exchanges and research during the 2013-14 academic year through the Fulbright Classroom Teacher Exchange Program and the Distinguished Fulbright Awards in Teaching Program.

Primary and secondary school teachers, guidance counselors, specialists (curriculum, media, librarians) and coordinators (Gifted and Talented, Special Education) are eligible to apply for these grants, offered by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.

Exchanges begin in August 2013 for either one semester or the academic year.

By living, teaching or conducting research overseas, teachers gain new skills, learn new teaching methodologies and share best practices with international colleagues. They also expand their understanding of national cultures and international education systems that will enrich their schools and communities with new global perspectives.

For the Teacher Exchange Program, teachers may apply for direct exchanges of teaching positions with colleagues from one of six countries (Czech Republic, France, Hungary, India, Mexico and United Kingdom). Teachers may apply for the Distinguished Fulbright Awards in Teaching for one of eight countries (Argentina, Finland, India, Mexico, Morocco, Singapore, South Africa and United Kingdom).

Teachers must have at least five years of experience, a bachelor of arts degree, and be currently employed in a full-time teaching position at a U.S. primary or secondary school. Visit the program website for eligibility, application information and country-specific requirements.

Application deadlines are Oct. 15 (Fulbright Classroom Teacher Exchange Program) and Dec. 15, 2012 (Distinguished Fulbright Awards in Teaching).

Please note that the Maine Department of Education has a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Nantes, France to improve both educational systems and develop international dimensions in teaching between France and the U.S. The Fulbright Classroom Teacher Exchange Program supports the goals of the MOU by providing opportunities for U.S. teachers to exchange teaching positions with teachers in France for an academic year or one semester. Teaching and researching abroad enriches the teachers included in the exchange, their students and the local communities.

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