What is the S.T.E.A.M. Educator Program?
We create pathways for teachers from all cultures and backgrounds to bring STEAM learning to life—connecting classrooms in Alabama with the world.
About S.T.E.A.M. Educator Program
The STEAM Educator Program connects qualified international teachers with accredited K–12 schools in Alabama. Through this program, educators gain hands-on teaching experience in the United States while contributing to student learning and cultural exchange.
ALIEEP supports participants with job placement, visa sponsorship, and ongoing professional guidance. The program is designed to help educators grow professionally while adapting to the U.S. education system.
The program offers multiple pathways tailored to different career goals, including cultural exchange opportunities and long-term professional employment in the United States.
ALIEEP is a Credible Partner in Global Education
The Alabama State Legislature commissions ALIEEP, but it also receives support from the Alabama State Department of Education and the Alabama Commission on Higher Education. Additionally, we maintain agreements with the South Korean Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Education in Taiwan..
Who is the Ideal Candidate?
We are looking for qualified educators who are passionate about teaching and open to gaining international experience in the United States through cultural exchange or long-term professional opportunities.
Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Education or a related field
Minimum of 2 years of teaching experience
Strong English communication skills
Adaptability to diverse classrooms and cultural environments
Candidates who are motivated and committed to student success will thrive in this program.
The Application Process
What are the Benefits?
Educators who join ALIEEP’s program receive comprehensive support throughout their journey, from application and placement to professional development. Some key benefits include:
Full visa support to ensure a smooth transition
Job connection in accredited U.S. schools
3 to 5-year full-time teaching opportunity in the USA
Chance to live, learn, and explore America
Cultural exchange experience, introducing students to global perspectives
Classroom management training, including evaluations and certifications
Professional growth in an internationally recognized education system
Build networking with other international teachers and U.S. education professionals
How long is the Program?
J-1 Visa Holders:
Teachers on a J-1 visa may reside in the USA while actively working in accredited Alabama public schools (K-12) for up to 3 years. However, on approval, a maximum of 2 years’ extension may be granted. As a result, a total of 5 years of employment in America.
For more details about eligibility, benefits, and the application process, please visit the J-1 Exchange Educator Program page
H-1B Visa Holders:
Teachers on the first H-1 visa may reside in the USA while actively working in the assigned accredited Alabama public schools (K-12) for up to 3 years. After the first three (3) years, if your school decides to retain your employment, we can facilitate another three years of continuous employment and even petition for permanent residency.
To learn more about long-term employment pathways, eligibility, and residency options, please visit the H-1B Resident Program page.
Are there multiple program Options?
The STEAM Educator Program offers multiple pathways based on your career goals and visa preferences.
Resident Program
- Study at AUM + gain classroom experience in Public schools.
- Pathway from F1/OPT to H-1B
RAIE Program
- For international graduates in Alabama to become teachers
- OPT/STEM OPT to H-1B pathway
J-1 Bud Teacher Program
- Teach in Alabama K–12 schools
- Up to 3 years with cultural exchange & 2-year possible extension
O.J.T program
(On-the-Job Training)
(On-the-Job Training)
- Hands-on training in U.S. companies
- up to 12 months experience in your field
Self-Placed:
Some S.T.E.A.M. applicants/candidates required ALIEEP’s assistance to facilitate visa sponsorship; however, a school in Alabama has extended a job offer without ALIEEP’s aid.
Need Job Connection:
The average applicant/candidate for the S.T.E.A.M. Educator Program requires a job connection and visa sponsorship. As a result, ALIEEP assists in identifying and applying to positions that align with the person’s qualifications and background.
Note: For both program options, ALIEEP listens to our candidates concerning location, living costs, community presence, etc.
What are the Fees?
Application and Related Fees:
This section is are expense the program candidate must cover. However, not all fees are required to be paid at once.
Visa Related Fees:
This section is paid by the school employing the candidate.
Health Insurance:
This is not a required section; however, all employees must have health insurance. All candidates may find their own plan or use ALIEEP as a resource.
What Our People Say
We have successfully placed eight teachers across the state of Alabama and counting!
Teachers from South Korea Visit Local Schools
Eight teachers from South Korea will be spending three weeks in Florence learning about the American education system.
We have received applications from interested candidates in 12 countries worldwide!
FAQS
Do I need to convert my teaching certificate?
- You do NOT need an Alabama Teaching Certificate to be qualified for the ALIEEP STEAM Educator Program. Still, you need your country’s Teacher Certificate issued by your government’s Department of Education, either the country or provincial office of education.
- ALIEEP will help you convert your credentials to Alabama’s certificate.
How do you find an accredited public school’s teaching position?
- ALIEEP Academic Team will find the positions, coordinate an interview, and support you to receive a job offer.
- ALIEEP works with accredited public-school districts throughout the state of Alabama. Therefore, your job offer will be as a state employee position.
How do you get a work-authorized visa as a foreigner?
- ALIEEP facilitates a petition for a work authorization through a special H-1B Cap Exempt category.
- Ordinarily, a K-12 school district does not have the special privileges to petition under the H-1B Cap Exempt category. However, the ALIEEP is commissioned by the Alabama Legislature and the Department of Education to facilitate the S.T.E.A.M. Educator Program; we make it happen.
May my family (spouse or children) accompany me to the USA?
- Yes, dependents (spouse or children) may accompany the teacher to the USA. We encourage teachers to correctly budget and allocate expenses associated with bringing and supporting family members in the USA. In some instances, J-2 dependent spouses may qualify for a work permit. ALIEEP provides support with the application (Form 1-765) with USCIS. Note: Processing takes 3-5 months. For cost, refer here: [insert link]
Is housing provided by the Host School or ALIEEP?
- ALIEEP and the Host School will not provide housing. However, we provide support in finding comfortable accommodations in safe areas.
What transportation options do I have?
- ALIEEP provides information about local transportation services, such as Mobile Transit or Birmingham Max Transit. In addition to public transit, international teachers have the option to carpool with coworkers, use rental car services (such as Uber/Lyft), or obtain a driver’s license. To obtain a driver’s license, individuals must complete both a written exam and a road test.
What are the expected responsibilities, work hours, and performance metrics?
- Positions are full-time, with start times varying by school. Performance metrics depend on grade levels, teaching responsibilities, and other factors.
What grade levels or student age groups are required?
- Teachers are needed for all grades, but high school and middle school (ages 11-18) teachers are in the highest demand. Elementary teaching is more challenging for foreign teachers, as it requires teaching multiple subjects, including American & Alabama history, social sciences, and culture.
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ALIEEP S.T.E.A.M. Educator Program Success Story: Shivani Dasaraju
Six International Teachers Placed and More To Come!
Another Teacher Placed with ALIEEP’s S.T.E.A.M. Educator Program
ALIEEP Expands Reach to India with Ethiraj College for Women
