Agencies Partnering with the Cultural Exchange Program for Teachers
In Part 1, we introduced the Cultural Exchange Program for Teachers, an opportunity for African-trained educators to teach in the U.S. and gain international experience. But before you can start the application process, it’s essential to connect with the right agency to help with placement, sponsorship, and paperwork.
Not all agencies are created equal—some are reputable and offer full support, while others may have hidden fees or unreliable services. In this post, we’ll cover:
✅ Top agencies that facilitate teacher migration to the USA
✅ How to choose a trustworthy agency
✅ Red flags to avoid when selecting an agency
What Do These Agencies Do?
Partner agencies play a critical role in helping international teachers secure teaching positions in the U.S. Here’s what they typically assist with:
✔️ School Placements – Matching you with schools that need teachers in your subject area.
✔️ Visa Sponsorship – Helping you obtain the J-1 visa or other work permits.
✔️ Relocation Support – Providing information on housing, transportation, and adjusting to life in the U.S.
✔️ Orientation & Training – Preparing teachers for the U.S. education system.
Top Agencies for the Cultural Exchange Program
Here are some of the most recognized agencies currently facilitating the migration of teachers to the USA:
1. Teach Away
🌍 Website: www.teachaway.com
Teach Away connects international teachers with schools across the U.S. and provides training resources to prepare teachers for their new roles.
✅ Helps with job placements in public, private, and charter schools
✅ Offers TEFL certification programs for English teachers
✅ Provides support throughout the visa process
2. Educational Partners International (EPI)
🌍 Website: www.teachwithepi.com
EPI is a cultural exchange program that brings international teachers to the U.S. to teach in K-12 schools.
✅ Focuses on cultural exchange and professional development
✅ Covers the J-1 visa sponsorship process
✅ Offers a support network of international teachers
3. Foreign Academic & Cultural Exchange Services (FACES)
🌍 Website: www.facesinc.org
FACES specializes in placing international teachers in public school districts in the U.S.
✅ Provides three-year teaching contracts
✅ Covers visa sponsorship and licensing assistance
✅ Supports teachers with mentorship and training
4. Global Teaching Partners
🌍 Website: www.globalteachingpartners.com
Global Teaching Partners works with school districts across the U.S. to recruit international teachers.
✅ Focuses on STEM, Special Education, and Language teachers
✅ Provides visa sponsorship and relocation support
✅ Offers ongoing professional development
IN THE LAST PART, YOU WILL ENTER YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS FOR FULL LIST OF THE AGENCIES
How to Choose a Trustworthy Agency
When selecting an agency, make sure to check the following:
✔️ Accreditation & Reviews – Research online reviews and testimonials from other teachers.
✔️ Clear Fee Structure – A legitimate agency will not charge high upfront fees for job placement.
✔️ Transparency in the Visa Process – Agencies should clearly explain visa sponsorship and legal obligations.
✔️ Direct School Connections – Agencies that have partnerships with U.S. school districts are more reliable.
Red Flags to Watch Out For 🚨
Not all agencies operate ethically. Be cautious if you notice:
❌ High Upfront Fees – Legitimate agencies don’t require large payments before placement.
❌ Guaranteed Green Card Promises – The J-1 visa is a temporary visa and does not automatically lead to a Green Card.
❌ Lack of Contact Information – Agencies should have a professional website, email, and phone support.
❌ No Visa Sponsorship Details – If an agency refuses to clarify the visa process, it’s a red flag.
What’s Next?
Now that you know the top agencies and how to choose a trustworthy one, the next step is ensuring you meet the eligibility criteria for the Cultural Exchange Program. In Part 3, we’ll break down:
✅ Who qualifies for the program?
✅ Teaching experience and subject areas in demand
✅ Other requirements like language proficiency and certification
🔹 [Read Part 3: Eligibility Criteria for African Teachers ]
By following this series, you’ll have all the information needed to successfully apply and secure a teaching job in the U.S. Stay tuned!
