Las Vegas, Nevada — The excitement is building as Clark County schools prepare to welcome students back for a new academic year. Amid Nevada’s ongoing teacher shortage, the Clark County School District has bolstered its ranks with a new group of special education teachers from the Philippines, who have just arrived in Las Vegas, ready to make an impact.
Since 2017, the district has been recruiting Filipino teachers through the J-1 Cultural Exchange Program to fill high-need areas such as special education, elementary education, math, and science. This year, the tradition continues with the arrival of 150 new recruits, collectively known as Batch 8. Many of these teachers are experiencing life away from home for the first time and have been warmly welcomed by local Filipino-American and Asian organizations.
“It’s so nice to have this kind of community since we’re new here. It helps to know that there are groups that will support us during our first year,” said Renegin Enrique, a J-1 teacher from Tacloban.
For many of the new arrivals, being in Las Vegas is both exciting and challenging as they adapt to the American education system.
“As this is a cultural exchange program, I’m eager to learn the different teaching styles here. I want to observe how lessons are delivered and learn new strategies. I also hope to share my culture with my students, their parents, and the community,” Enrique added.
Haydie De Guzman, a J-1 teacher from Laguna, expressed relief in finding a support system. “It’s an advantage to have a family to turn to here. It helps us save a bit too.”
Randy Tungpalan, another J-1 teacher from Isabela, highlighted the importance of adjusting to a new cultural environment. “Foremost, I believe it’s about understanding the culture and behavior of our students. The best thing I need to do is adjust myself and get to know the kids as well.”
Randy Salinas, now in his third year as a J-1 teacher in Las Vegas, reflected on the importance of community support. “Without them, I would have had a hard time surviving in this new endeavor. With their support, we are able to survive, and hopefully, they will continue to expand their services not just here in Nevada but also in other states.”
Meanwhile, as the 2024 school year kicks off, back-to-school events are happening across Nevada. In Reno, hundreds of backpacks filled with school supplies were distributed to children in Washoe County. The annual event, hosted by the Richard Harris Law Firm, saw large crowds lining up for these much-needed items.
“We will do it every year until nobody needs it anymore,” said Rick Harris, CEO of Richard Harris Law.
Bev Llorente, ABS-CBN News, Nevada
