Summer Study of the U.S. Institutes for Secondary Educators

The U.S. Embassy in Madagascar and The Comoros is accepting applications for the Summer 2026 Study of the U.S. Institutes (SUSI) for Secondary Educators, a five-week program designed to enhance teaching about the United States. Mid-career secondary school educators, administrators, and curriculum developers will engage in academic residencies, field experiences, and cultural activities to deepen understanding of U.S. history, society, and achievements.

Overview

The SUSI for Secondary Educators program aims to:

• Strengthen curricula and improve the quality of teaching about the United States

• Promote understanding of U.S. founding principles, history, and achievements

• Support patriotic education and provide opportunities for follow-on engagement

The program is academic in nature and is not focused on pedagogy or English language teaching. Participants will engage in lectures, seminars, readings, workshops, site visits, and cultural activities to explore U.S. history, institutions, and society.

Program Structure

• Duration: 5 weeks in mid-2026

  • 4-week academic residency at a U.S. host institution

  • 1-week integrated academic field experience in a different U.S. region

• Institutions:

  • University of Montana, Missoula – 1 Institute for teachers

  • Institute for Training and Development, Amherst, Massachusetts – 1 Institute for teachers

  • California State University, Chico – 1 Institute for administrators

• Participants per Institute: 20 experienced secondary school educators per multinational cohort

Who Is Eligible

Eligible participants include:

• Mid-career secondary school educators, administrators, curriculum developers, textbook writers, and Ministry of Education officials

• Professionals typically aged 30–50 teaching students aged approximately 14–18

• Individuals with strong English fluency and a demonstrated interest in U.S. studies

Ineligible candidates:

• U.S. citizens and permanent residents

• Relatives of U.S. Embassy or Fulbright employees

• Individuals unwilling to engage respectfully with diverse perspectives

Selection Criteria

Priority is given to candidates who:

• Have firm plans to enhance, update, or develop U.S.-focused courses or materials

• Have limited or no prior experience in the United States

• Demonstrate professional achievements aligned with program themes

• Show potential multiplier effects, such as influencing curricula, colleagues, or students

Program Content

• Academic and interdisciplinary focus on U.S. history, society, and culture

• Key readings include the U.S. Constitution, Gettysburg Address, and other foundational documents

• Visits to historical and natural landmarks

• Engagement through lectures, panels, seminars, workshops, and cultural activities

• Expected full participation in all activities and readings

Virtual Participation (if required)

In case of health, safety, or travel restrictions, the program may shift to a virtual format:

• Minimum of 36 hours of required programming

• Combination of synchronous and asynchronous components

• Full participation expected from participants’ home locations

Application Process

• Submit a complete application demonstrating eligibility, English proficiency, and professional experience

• Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview

• The selection process considers both scholarly/professional credentials and potential program impact

Tips for Applicants

• Clearly articulate plans to enhance curricula or teaching materials

• Highlight any leadership roles or achievements in secondary education

• Demonstrate commitment to sharing knowledge with colleagues and students

• Provide examples of professional engagement with U.S. studies or related academic activities

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who can apply for SUSI for Secondary Educators?
Mid-career secondary educators, administrators, curriculum developers, textbook writers, and Ministry of Education officials from eligible countries, fluent in English.

2. What is the program duration?
Five weeks: four-week academic residency plus one-week field experience.

3. Where will the program take place?
Academic institutions in the U.S., including Montana, Massachusetts, and California, with potential field experiences in different regions.

4. Is the program focused on teaching methodology or pedagogy?
No, SUSI is academic in nature and focuses on U.S. history, society, culture, and achievements.

5. Are U.S. citizens eligible?
No, U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and relatives of U.S. Embassy or Fulbright employees are ineligible.

6. What should applicants highlight in their application?
Plans to enhance U.S.-focused curricula, professional achievements, leadership roles, and potential impact on students and colleagues.

7. What happens if travel to the U.S. is restricted?
The program may move to a virtual format with a minimum of 36 hours of required programming and full participation expected.

Conclusion

The SUSI for Secondary Educators Summer 2026 program offers an exceptional opportunity for mid-career secondary educators to deepen their understanding of the United States, strengthen curricula, and enhance student learning. Participants gain first-hand academic and cultural experiences, positioning them to serve as multipliers in their schools and communities.