About the Program

U.S. - Russia English Language Exchange Program aims to empower you with knowledge, experiences, and professional development opportunities.

The teacher programming will focus on improving English language teaching and leadership skills. Both groups of Teachers will travel to Washington, D.C. to participate in professional workshops, experience American culture and education through sightseeing and site visits, and attend either SXSW EDU or ISTELive conferences. in Texas. All program related travel, including flights, accommodations, and pre-departure orientations will covered.

ELEX will focus both teacher exchanges programming on:

English language teaching

Participants will learn about the latest trends and best practices in English language teaching, including how to use new technology in the classroom, how to differentiate instruction, and how to create a positive learning environment.

Leadership skills

Participants will develop their leadership skills through workshops and activities on topics such as team building, emotional intelligence, and classroom management.

Professional and institutional linkages

Participants will have the opportunity to network with American teachers and educational leaders, and to learn about American educational practices. They will also get a firsthand experience of American education institutions. 

Cultural immersion

Participants will experience American culture through sightseeing, cultural programming, and visits to historical sites. They will also have the opportunity to interact with American students and citizens.

  • By the end of their exchange experience, ELEX teachers will have strengthened their English language pedagogy skills, built a network of American peers, gained a better understanding of American culture and education, and acquired the skillsets, knowledge and experiences to make a lasting impact on how the English language is taught in their home communities.

Eligibilty

To participate in the program applicants must:

  • Be a citizen of the Russian Federation;

  • Be an English Language Teacher in Russia;

  • Return to Russia upon program completion;

  • Have no previous U.S. exchange experience in the past 7 years;

  • Have proven English Language Teaching leadership experience;

  • For ISTE: Tech-savvy, interested in using technology in teaching;

  • For Group Lead: previous U.S. exchange and RELO experience.

    Persons with disabilities encouraged to apply.

Who are we looking for?

ELEX is committed to providing opportunities for all teachers to participate in the exchange program, regardless of their location or background. We strongly encourage applications from teachers located outside of major metropolitan areas, in particular those that represent marginalized communities. We believe that these individuals have unique perspectives and experiences that can enrich the exchange program for everyone involved.

In addition to the background, ELEX considers the following factors when selecting exchange participants:

  • Application 

This includes the applicant's personal statement and resume.

  • Motivation

ELEX is looking for applicants who are motivated to learn about American culture and values, and who are committed to sharing their experiences with their peers in Russia.

  • Leadership qualifications

ELEX believes that leadership is an important quality for exchange participants, and will consider the applicant's leadership experience in the selection process.

  • Capacity to share experience

ELEX is looking for applicants who are able to share their experiences with their peers in Russia in a meaningful way.

  • Interest in learning about America

ELEX believes that it is important for exchange participants to be interested in learning about American culture and values.

  • No previous participation in exchange programs

Preference will be given to applicants who have not previously participated in exchange programs in the U.S.