As summer comes to an end, students and teachers alike are preparing to embark on a new school year. The excitement of new beginnings, the anticipation of learning and growing, and the joy of being part of a community all come together in the back-to-school season.
This school year will be particularly exciting for Sage, a young woman who is about to begin teaching in Israel.
This fall, Sage will be participating in Masa Israel Journey’s 10-month Masa Israel Teaching Fellows (MITF) program, teaching in Bat Yam. The MITF program offers an opportunity for individuals to immerse themselves in Israeli culture while teaching English classes to children.
MITF is not the only program available for individuals interested in teaching in Israel. Go Overseas offers participants the chance to teach English, music, sports, or other subjects in schools throughout the country. Another program, Israel Outdoors Next, focuses on providing teaching experiences in a variety of settings, including public and religious schools, community centers, and special education programs.
Sage chose MITF because she wanted to participate in a program that focuses on teaching English exclusively.
“I did my undergraduate coursework in Developmental Psychology and Education. During my master’s study, I had the opportunity to work with English Learners and wanted to see how English is taught in other countries,” said Sage.
Sage also wants to develop a global perspective in her style of teaching and way of life, including the idea of community and the spirit of collectivism.
She grew up in southeast Africa and has traveled to more than 20 countries.
“I loved the community in Africa. People are very friendly, always smiling, and always willing to help you,” said Sage. “In Africa, there is a big emphasis on community and helping each other.”
She also sees these ideals in Israel from her previous visits, noting that in Israel, “it’s easy to feel welcome.”
Sage sees the program as an avenue to combine her passion for teaching children with her love for cross-cultural exchange, while also growing professionally and personally. Diversity and inclusivity will be the top pillars of her educational ethos.
“I think it’s such an important part of a child’s development to learn about their culture and explore their identity,” said Sage. “Students should see themselves reflected in lessons because it leads to more meaningful, engaged learning.”
Why Israel? That’s easy, Sage says — she chose Israel to connect more deeply with her Jewish identity. “It’s nice to be able to connect to people on a cultural and religious level. It’s also interesting meeting people with different experiences and perspectives of Judaism.”
As Sage heads back to school, she is excited to be part of a program offering a unique and rewarding experience for individuals looking to make a difference in the lives of students while exploring Israel and expanding their horizons.
“I hope to be a good mentor to these students and have a real impact on them,” said Sage. “I know that I have much to learn from them as well.”