ATA unveils new teacher exchange options

Three new exchange opportunities are available to Alberta teachers who are interested in connecting with colleagues from other parts of the world.

The ATA’s teacher exchange program is currently accepting applications for a new two-week in-person exchange to Australia, as well as virtual exchanges with colleagues in Jalisco, Mexico and 16 Alberta accredited international schools located throughout the world.

Virtual exchanges have been popular and successful since they were introduced as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, but the ATA’s exchange liaison Carolyn Freed expects that the return of in-person exchanges will generate significant interest.

“I get the sense that people want to reconnect. People are wanting a little bit of a return to normalcy,” she said.

With the new in-person exchange, the Alberta participant will travel to Australia for two weeks in late July, then host their Australian counterpart in October. The program is open to teachers and school leaders and is a partnership with the states of South Australia and Queensland.

When applying, teachers indicate their area of interest and are paired with a colleague with similar interests.

Jalisco, Mexico is another new exchange partner. This virtual program will take place over a four-week period starting in May.

Third, a new program enables Alberta teachers to apply for a virtual, one-month exchange with a counterpart located at one of the 16 Alberta accredited international schools. These are located in 10 countries throughout the world: Mexico, Bermuda, Morocco, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Cambodia, Vietnam, China, Hong Kong and Japan.

Exchanges are a great way for teachers to broaden their understanding of education issues, make meaningful connections and continue their love of learning, Freed said.

As one exchange participant put it: “One day you will wake up and there won’t be any more time to do the thing you’ve always wanted. So, hey, why not do it now?” ❚