DISTINGUISHED FULBRIGHT AWARDS IN TEACHING PROGRAM FOR U.S. TEACHERS

Sponsored by the United States Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, the Distinguished Fulbright Awards in Teaching Program provides funding for highly accomplished U.S. primary and secondary level teachers to take part in an intensive professional development program for three to six months abroad. The Institute of International Education (IIE) administers he Distinguished Fulbright Awards in Teaching Program on behalf of the U.S. Department of State.

Teachers of all subjects, guidance counselors, curriculum specialists, curriculum heads, Talented and Gifted coordinators, Special Education coordinators and media specialists/librarians may apply to this program for the opportunity to go abroad for three to six months to study in an overseas research center or university, work within local schools in the host country, and to complete a capstone project that should enhance their learning and have practical applications to their teaching (see the Capstone Project page for sample projects). 

IIE works with U.S. Embassies and consulates, Fulbright Commissions and other organizations to link U.S. teachers with a host institution in their preferred country. Once abroad, academic support will be provided by a host institution advisor who will support the U.S. teacher and help contribute to the design and activities of the project. Project support will also be provided via an online module led by staff at a U.S. university. Upon returning to the U.S., participants will be expected to share the knowledge and experience gained on the program with teachers and students in their home schools and within their communities.

PROGRAM BENEFITS TO PARTICIPATING TEACHERS

As part of the program, Distinguished Fulbright Teachers:

• Design and carry out a Capstone Project overseas. Projects may relate to the teacher’s content area, curriculum development, educational policy, standards or other key issues relevant to the home and host educational system abroad.
• Study and observe international best practices in education;
• Share professional expertise with educators and students in the host country;
• Develop leadership skills and understanding of educational policy;
• Enhance their ability to work in diverse and multicultural environments.

PROGRAM BENEFITS TO U.S. SCHOOLS AND COMMUNITIES

Upon return, Distinguished Fulbright Teachers:

• Integrate international best practices in education in the U.S. classroom, school and community;
• Integrate Capstone Project findings into the U.S. classroom or school;
• Expand global and intercultural awareness of students and colleagues by sharing their Fulbright experience and infusing their experience into classroom content or curriculum;
• Develop partnerships and joint projects with schools and classrooms abroad.