Teaching in the USA

Practical tips and insights for teaching in U.S. classrooms—lesson planning, behavior management, teacher expectations, and day-to-day realities. If you’re wondering how to succeed professionally in a new education system, start here.

Fired U.S. Teachers: What Every J-1 Teacher Should Know

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Worried teacher in a U.S. classroom with headlines like ‘Fired,’ ‘Investigation,’ and ‘Mistake’ in the background – visual warning for J-1 visa teachers about classroom risks.

J-1 Teachers, Don’t Risk It (Part 2) These real cases didn’t all involve J-1 teachers. But the mistakes? They’re exactly the kinds of things that can end a J-1 teaching contract—fast. That’s why we’re sharing them here: not to scare you, but to protect you. This is Part 2 of our most-read survival guide for … Read more

What to Do When a Student Refuses to Follow the Rules: Classroom Management Hack

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  What If a Student Refuses to Follow a Class Rule? Setting clear expectations is essential, but what happens when a student refuses to follow a rule? Do you react immediately, or take a different approach?     How Should You Respond? A) Remind them privately and explain. B) Give a consequence immediately. C) Argue … Read more

How to Keep Students On-Task During Independent Work: Classroom Management Hack

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What If a Group of Students Is Constantly Off-Task? Independent work time should be productive, but what if a group of students keeps getting distracted? Instead of working, they talk, play, or lose focus. How should you handle it? How Should You Respond? A) Assign extra homework as a punishment. B) Redirect their attention by … Read more

Placed on an ‘Improvement Plan’? Here’s What It Really Means for Your Job!

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What Teachers Need to Know and Why You Should Be Wary What Is a Professional Improvement Plan (PIP)? A PIP is a structured plan designed to help teachers improve in specific areas where they may be struggling. While it may seem like a tool for professional growth, teachers should approach a PIP with caution.   Why … Read more

What to Do When a Student Refuses to Work: Classroom Management Hack

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What If a Student Refuses to Do Their Work and Shuts Down? Many teachers, especially international educators adjusting to U.S. classrooms, face the challenge of students who completely disengage. When a student refuses to do their work and shuts down, how should you respond? How Should You Respond? A) Give them space, check in privately, … Read more

Stop Student Interruptions Effectively: Classroom Management Hack:

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What If a Student Constantly Interrupts Your Lesson? A student keeps shouting jokes during your lesson, and the class laughs, encouraging them. What should you do? How Should You Respond? ✅ Best Response: C Calling out a student in front of the class can make things worse. Instead, use a private redirection strategy:  -Remind them … Read more

Shield Yourself: Practical Ways J-1 Teachers Can Handle Tough Student Behavior

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Teaching in the United States as a J-1 teacher is an exciting and life-changing experience. But let’s be real—some days, it can feel like you’re walking into a battlefield instead of a classroom. For many international teachers, the struggle with student behavior is one of the toughest parts of the journey. You’re good if your … Read more

FREE Mini Playbook for Handling Difficult Students

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Tired of feeling overwhelmed in the classroom? Say goodbye to stress and hello to a more manageable class!  Get instant access to our FREE Mini Playbook, packed with proven strategies for handling difficult students. Ready to transform your teaching experience? Get your free copy now: https://teach-usa.myflodesk.com/mini-playbook