Mod 3 Discussion: Moving Students Into a New Culture

Hey everyone!

One time I really felt culture shock was when I moved from Alabama to Florida for a new teaching job. Even though it was still in the U.S., the vibe, expectations, and even the school culture were totally different. Everything from how meetings were run to how people communicated (and how often!) caught me off guard. At first, I felt overwhelmed, second-guessing myself and wondering if I fit in.

What helped was just observing at first—listening more than talking, taking notes, and slowly building relationships with coworkers. I started to feel more like myself once I figured out the unspoken "norms" and routines. Asking questions and being open really helped me adjust.

Now in the classroom, I try to keep that experience in mind when I welcome new students—especially ELLs or anyone coming from a different background. I’m much more intentional about explaining routines, using visuals, and pairing them with buddies who can help ease the transition. I also try to check in often—because I know what it’s like to feel lost and not want to ask.