1. Transcending Educational Borders
Philippines 2009
FILAMEDA
Filipino American Educators Association of San Diego County
Genevieve Esmende

2. Purpose
Opportunity to teach and interact with students in the Philippines
Observe teachers and students in the classroom
Dialogue with administrators and teachers regarding classroom practices

3. Organized the trip
Asked people in FILAMEDA if they had connections with schools in the Philippines.
Then I contacted the principal of each the schools to arrange our visit.
I also made sure we visited schools in the hometowns of each of the participants.
We also collected donations: books, textbooks, and money for school supplies.
A month before the trip we packed 12 boxes filled with books, textbooks, and school supplies and had them shipped to the schools.

4. Schools we visited Ateneo Grade School Ateneo de Manila University
Dirita-Baloguen Elementary in Iba, Zambales
Zambales National High School in Iba, Zambales
Felipe Estela in Baluganon, Zambales
Daniel Maramba National High School in Pangasinan
Santa Rosa Elementary in Olango Island, Cebu
Amadeo High School and Amadeo Elementary in Cavite
Rosario and Silangan Elementary schools in Cavite

5. Slideshow

6. Reflection
A better understanding of the educational experiences of my students who recently immigrated to the US from the Philippines.
Hoping I was able to influence or change the way teachers teach math in the Philippines.
We had a very busy schedule traveling through the Philippines, visiting schools and meeting each others families. Next time, I will schedule some time to go sight seeing.
Look into finding grant money to help fund the trip.

7. If interested in planning your own educational trip:
Contact education organization connected to the country you want to visit for support
Start finding ways to make contacts with schools in that country
Press release about your trip and to also ask for donations to be sent to the schools you will be visiting
me at if you have any questions