Grateful Reflections and Highlights from My First Year in the U.S.

Global Teaching Partners

Originally from Honduras, Josselyne Almendares shares reflections and highlights from her first year in the United States.

Educator and Coach

Being an educator involves much more work than teaching content. Josselyne Almendares is an educator who exemplifies this belief. She is currently a middle school teacher of English as a Second Language (ESL) and is also making history as one of the first Hispanic women to serve as an assistant coach for the girls’ basketball team at Jordan-Matthews High School.

Originally from Honduras, Josselyne came to the United States as a Global Educator, fulfilling her lifelong dream to work in a multicultural setting. Teaching is more than a career for her, it’s a mission. She believes deeply in the power of education to create real change and is committed to inspiring her students academically and personally.

In The Classroom

Josselyne brings passion into her classroom, making language learning engaging and deeply meaningful. Her students explore novels like The Alchemist, The Little Prince, Esperanza Rising, and The Outsiders. Speaking about these choices, Josselyne said “These texts not only enhanced their language acquisition but also encouraged deeper reflection on issues like perseverance, belonging, and empathy making English learning meaningful and relevant.”

What’s Next?

Josselyne isn’t stopping here. She is determined to keep growing, beginning a Master’s degree in TESOL at Greensboro College in the Fall. She will continue coaching, pursuing certifications to refine her skills, and leaving a lasting impact on both academics and athletics. When asked about her hopes Josselyne said, “In the classroom, I want my students to remember me as someone who helped them find their voice, improve their skills, and believe in their dreams. On the court, I want to continue breaking barriers and inspiring young women, especially in underrepresented communities.”

Her story is a testament to passion and the ability to make a difference, one lesson, one game, and one student at a time.