A group of Arlington Public Schools (APS) educators have taken professional learning beyond traditional settings, seeking opportunities around the world to expand their teaching skills and perspectives. These teachers have secured funding through grants and fellowships, sometimes working additional jobs to support their travel and participation in global educational programs.
The educators—Jennifer Burgin, Erin Kowalevicz, Megan Zelasko, and Dr. Andi Webb—have a combined 15–25 years of experience each in education. Collectively, they have participated in professional learning on all seven continents and in 140 countries. Their experiences range from studying sustainability-focused schools equipped with advanced technology to visiting classrooms with limited resources.
“There’s no substitute for standing in a rainforest and later telling your students, ‘I saw this with my own eyes,’ or describing the icy plunge of penguins in Antarctica with the kind of excitement that only comes from being there,” the article notes.
The group highlights that these immersive experiences not only enhance their teaching but also benefit their students by introducing global perspectives into the classroom. “We’ve learned that when teachers are empowered to pursue the learning that fuels them, the ripple effect is immeasurable. Classrooms become more vibrant. Students see the world through wider lenses. And educators rediscover the joy that brought them to this work in the first place.”
They also stress that pursuing such opportunities is possible for others interested in similar growth. “If you’re curious about how to begin your own professional learning journey — whether it’s across the globe or right in your school — let’s connect,” Dr. Andi Webb says.
These APS staff members encourage colleagues to reach out for information about global professional learning options or to bring related sessions into their schools.
