From Lucena City to California: A Journey of an Extraordinary SPED Teacher (Special Edition Women's Month)

By Nimfa Estrellado Marie Joy Maestro LUCENA CITY - Living up to her name, which translates to "teacher" in Italian, Marie Joy...

By Nimfa Estrellado

Marie Joy Maestro

LUCENA CITY - Living up to her name, which translates to "teacher" in Italian, Marie Joy Maestro conducts a symphony of learning in her classroom. Each student, with their unique strengths and abilities, becomes an instrument in her orchestra. Her expertise guides them to grow and fulfill their potential, creating a beautiful harmony that celebrates diversity. This melody symbolizes the positive impact she has on her students and the special education community.

For many Filipinos, working abroad is a sacrifice made for a better future. But for some, like Marie Joy, a distinguished special education teacher and resource specialist at Thomas R. Pollicita Middle School in Daly City, California, USA, the act of teaching transcends geographical boundaries. Marie Joy isn't just imparting knowledge to her students; she's also bridging cultures, a world away from her own family in the Philippines.



While the Philippines boasts a rich cultural tapestry, educational resources and teacher salaries often fall short. As a mother with a son to support, Marie Joy saw teaching abroad not just as an adventure but as an opportunity for professional growth and a chance to provide a brighter future for her family.

Marie Joy Maestro

Describing her experience as transformative, Marie Joy highlights the stark difference in available resources. "Here," she explains, "I have access to a vast array of materials, equipment, and support services that significantly enrich my students' learning. These were often limited back in the Philippines."

However, Marie Joy acknowledges the challenges of adapting: "Teaching in a new environment requires adjusting to different methodologies and cultural norms. But these challenges have become opportunities for growth. My adaptability has been key to thriving in this new setting."

Marie Joy doesn't just teach; she fosters cultural exchange. She actively incorporates aspects of Filipino culture into my lessons from introducing Filipino traditions and cuisine to sharing Filipino literature, she strive to create opportunities for cross-cultural understanding and celebrate diversity in the classroom. Sharing her heritage is a way to promote respect for different backgrounds and perspectives.

While the initial adjustment wasn't easy, Marie Joy persevered adapting to a new culture, curriculum, and being separated from family was tough she admits. But she honed her English skills, embraced local customs, and, most importantly, adapted her teaching approach to resonate with her international students.

Despite the positive experiences, there's a touch of nostalgia. "What I miss most about teaching in the Philippines is the genuine respect and reverence students have for their teachers," Marie Joy reflects. "The strong cultural emphasis on showing deference to educators creates a supportive and unique learning environment. While I've encountered respectful students abroad, there's a special sense of camaraderie and mutual respect among Filipino students that I hold dear."

Marie Joy's passion for teaching blossomed early on. Even in elementary school, she found joy in guiding others and sharing knowledge with classmates. This inclination was further fueled by an NCE test result suggesting she had potential as an educator, planting a seed that would shape her future.

Becoming a teacher in the Philippines, known for demanding paperwork and reporting, required sacrifices. Marie Joy adjusted her schedule, prioritizing her responsibilities while balancing her hobbies and interests. However, her true calling became clear during her student teaching experience (OJT). Witnessing the challenges faced by special education teachers and the profound impact on students and families solidified her determination to make a difference in this field.

Teaching has significantly impacted Marie Joy, fostering valuable lessons in empathy, resilience, and the transformative power of education. It has opened her eyes to a world of compassion and understanding, where everyone possesses unique strengths and abilities. Through teaching, she discovered a wellspring of patience, creativity, and perseverance within herself.

While challenges were inevitable, some were unforeseen. The emotional toll of working with special needs students and their families presented a unique hurdle. It demanded a delicate balance of empathy and professionalism, requiring ongoing support from colleagues and parents. Marie Joy overcame these challenges through self-reflection, continuous learning, and utilizing available resources and support networks.

Moments of doubt arose, especially during periods of overwhelming demands. However, Marie Joy refocused on her purpose and passion for impacting students' lives. The knowledge that she contributed to their growth, learning, and well-being, despite the hardships, reaffirmed her commitment to teaching.

Finding a work-life balance has been an ongoing journey. Strategies like setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and maintaining open communication with loved ones have proven instrumental. Cultivating hobbies outside of teaching allows her to recharge and bring her best self to both aspects of life.

Throughout her career, Marie Joy has developed cherished relationships with students, parents, and colleagues, enriching her life in countless ways. Witnessing students' growth and the bonds forged through shared experiences is incredibly rewarding. Collaboration with dedicated colleagues and supportive parents strengthens her sense of community and belief in education's power to create positive change.

Humbled and Driven

Marie Joy's dedication to special education is evident in her extensive experience and unwavering commitment. Her journey began fresh out of graduation, where volunteering as a regular teacher at Twin Hearts International School in Lucena City sparked a passion for supporting students with diverse learning needs. This first-hand exposure to SPED therapy ignited a desire to make a difference.

Following this pivotal experience, Marie Joy took on a challenging role as a transition SPED teacher at Luis Palad Integrated High School. Working with students from 1st to 4th year with mild to moderate learning challenges honed her skills in preparing them for the next chapter in their academic journey.

"What drew me to become a teacher was my passion for making a difference in the lives of students with diverse learning needs," Marie Joy reflects. "The opportunity to provide support, guidance, and encouragement to help them reach their full potential is what keeps me motivated every day." This dedication is a constant thread woven throughout her career path.

Her commitment extends beyond her students. She actively pursues professional development, as evidenced by her licensure as a professional teacher in the Philippines and her ongoing pursuit of California credentials. This dedication to lifelong learning ensures she stays current with best practices and provides the most effective support for all her students.

Championing the unique challenges and rewards of teaching SPED learners, she understands that each student's needs are distinct and necessitate a personalized approach. Her adaptability and creativity in crafting individualized strategies allow her students to thrive.

Her journey extends beyond the Philippines. Since 2019, she has continued her mission as a resource specialist at Thomas R. Pollicita Middle School in Daly City, California. This transition demonstrates her commitment to ongoing growth and a desire to impact students in a new environment.

Marie Joy acknowledges the demanding yet fulfilling nature of meeting the diverse needs of SPED students. "Balancing diverse needs, while ensuring each student receives the necessary support, can be demanding but equally fulfilling," she affirms with optimism. This statement reflects her unwavering commitment to creating a positive and successful learning environment for all her students.

Unwavering Dedication to Inclusion

Marie Joy's diverse experiences showcase her dedication to supporting students with learning challenges across various age groups and educational settings. Her willingness to adapt and her passion for inclusion make her a valuable asset in any classroom.

Alongside her steadfast commitment to being an inclusive education advocate, she has honed essential skills and knowledge for special education teachers. These include proficiency in developing and implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), employing creative and innovative teaching methodologies for optimal student growth, fostering a flexible learning environment, and enhancing the overall learning experience.

Marie Joy Maestro students.

Marie Joy Maestro students.

Teacher Marie Joy demonstrates a remarkable commitment to continuous professional development. Her impressive portfolio of trainings in 2019 alone includes topics ranging from autism spectrum disorder to mandated reporter training. This dedication to ongoing learning ensures she stays current on best practices and can provide the most effective support for her students.

Marie Joy embodies the spirit of inclusive education. Her passion for empowering students with diverse learning needs shines through in her innovative approach and dedication. Catering to individual strengths is paramount for Marie Joy. "Employing a multisensory approach with visual, auditory, and kinesthetic elements has had the biggest impact," she explains.

This allows her to craft lessons that resonate with each student, fostering deeper understanding and knowledge retention. Technology is another powerful tool in her arsenal. She integrate assistive technology and educational apps to engage students and personalize their learning journeys.

Beyond academics, Marie Joy emphasizes the importance of preparing students for a dynamic future. She said critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and collaboration are crucial skills. As the world evolves, she believes students need the ability to adapt, innovate, and thrive in a changing landscape.

Her motivation is deeply rooted in making a positive difference. "A passion for making a difference in the lives of students with diverse learning needs drew me to teaching," she reflects. The opportunity to provide support, guidance, and encouragement fuels her daily work. The classroom transforms into a space of exploration and discovery. "In my study skills classes and pull-out sessions, I encourage students to develop curiosity and a love for learning through hands-on activities, real-world applications, and inquiry-based learning," she explains.

The true reward lies in witnessing the students' growth. Marie Joy finds immense satisfaction in moments where students grasp new concepts, overcome challenges with newfound confidence, and experience the joy of learning. "Each day brings new opportunities to make a positive impact and inspire a lifelong love of learning," she concludes, highlighting the heart of her dedication.

Recognition for Excellence

Marie Joy's passion for inclusive education has fueled a remarkable journey, beginning in the Philippines and extending to the United States. For six years, she has dedicated herself to supporting students with diverse needs across various settings. This dedication was recently recognized with two prestigious awards at the 2023 International Who's Who Awards: the Outstanding Middle School Inclusive Educator Award and the Technology Integration in Special Education Award.

While these awards acknowledge Marie Joy's expertise and validate her hard work, her greatest reward lies in the positive impact she has on her students. "Witnessing one of my students who struggled with reading comprehension make significant progress fills me with immense pride," she reflects. "Through personalized interventions and differentiated instruction, they not only improved their reading skills but also gained confidence in expressing themselves effectively."










These awards, bestowed by BETMA English in collaboration with Aloysian Publications-Philippines, acknowledge individuals who have reached the "pinnacle of excellence" in their fields. Awardees are celebrated for setting extraordinary standards and serving as inspirations for others. Their achievements are further recognized with a feature in a special edition of the Educator's Link magazine, a national and international platform for educators.

This is just one example of how Marie Joy's dedication to inclusive education empowers her students to reach their full potential. Her innovative approach, coupled with a deep commitment to collaboration and professional development, positions her as a true leader in the field.

"To create a positive and inclusive learning environment, I prioritize building strong relationships with my students based on trust and mutual respect. I implement cooperative learning activities, promote empathy and understanding, and celebrate diversity to ensure that every student feels valued and supported in the classroom," she said.

Furthermore, her memberships in the National Association of Special Education Teachers (since 2023) and the American Federation of Teachers (since 2019) demonstrate her commitment to continuous learning and understanding the complexities of special education, both domestically and internationally.

Marie Joy exemplifies lifelong learning. Not only is she a national certificate holder in bread and pastry, but her experience extends far beyond the kitchen. During her elementary school years, she honed her leadership and organizational skills as the school coordinator for MAPEH, ICT, and school health and nutrition.

Leader Beyond the Blackboard

She also held the position of Grade Chairperson at Tayabas East Central School 1, demonstrating her administrative capabilities. Her dedication was further recognized with the 2018 Gawad Tulay Malasakit award for her contributions to the Department of Education's regional newsletter and website. Even as a parent, Marie Joy's commitment shone through her Active Parent award during Brigada Eskwela, showcasing her efforts in preparing the school for the new academic year.

Marie Joy's expertise goes beyond the classroom. Her technical working group assignments and speaking engagements at local, divisional, regional, and national trainings and seminars are a testament to her growth. Once a participant, her skills and knowledge earned her key roles in these events, facilitating numerous workshops for SPED teachers within the Department of Education.

Marie Joy during her talks.

Marie Joy during her talks.

Marie Joy during her talks.

These included programs like "National Training on Coaching and Officiating for Students with Disability," "National Training of Trainers on Special Education," and "Regional Training Workshop for Receiving Teachers for Children with Difficulties." Notably, during the "Regional Mass Training of Receiving Teachers on SPED," she shared her expertise as a resource speaker, advocating for inclusive practices in special education.

Even while abroad in the U.S., Marie Joy continued to make a difference, presenting a talk on "Technological Tools and Resources for Remote Instruction in Special Education" during Brigada Eskwela 2021. Her dedication culminated in a demonstration teaching feat at the "Conduct of Pedagogical Retooling of Teachers to Hail Quality Standards" convention in 2019–2020.

Marie Joy's versatility is evident in her ability to excel beyond her core specialization. Recognized for consistently exceeding expectations, she embodies an unwavering commitment to excellence. Looking ahead, she identifies the need for adequate resources and support as a major concern in special education. Highlighting budget constraints, limited personnel, and the lack of specialized services, she emphasizes the importance of advocating for increased funding, training opportunities for educators, and collaborative partnerships.

Beyond Boarders

Teaching abroad has been a transformative experience for Marie Joy. Compared to her time in the Philippines, the most notable difference is the abundance of resources and support. Access to a wide range of materials, equipment, and services allows her to enhance the learning experience for her students. However, adapting to new methodologies and cultural norms presented its own challenges. "Despite these challenges," Marie Joy says, "I've embraced the opportunities for growth and found that my adaptability has allowed me to thrive in this new setting."

While Marie Joy hasn't received recent awards in California, she's proud of the recognition she earned in the Philippines for creating inclusive learning environments. "This experience fuels my commitment to providing equitable education for all students," she stressed. Exposure to different educational systems abroad has broadened her perspective. "It's had a profound impact on my teaching style and philosophy," she explains. "I've learned to incorporate best practices from various contexts, resulting in a more holistic and student-centered approach."

Marie Joy actively incorporates aspects of Filipino culture into her lessons, from traditions and cuisine to literature; she strives to create a space for cultural exchange and celebrate diversity. Sharing her heritage fosters understanding and respect for different backgrounds. What Marie Joy misses most is the deep respect students in the Philippines have for teachers.

Maintaining connections is important to Marie Joy. She utilizes social media, email, and video calls to keep in touch with former colleagues and mentors, exchange ideas, and stay updated on developments in the Philippine education system. Additionally, online forums connect her with fellow Filipino educators.

Marie Joy actively seeks ways to connect with the Filipino community abroad. "Whether organizing cultural events, participating in Filipino community organizations, or incorporating Filipino history and traditions, I strive to create a sense of belonging and pride for Filipino students and their families," she explains.

One aspect Marie Joy believes the Philippine educational system excels in is the emphasis on holistic education and value formation. "Integrating character development, moral values, and citizenship education alongside academics can nurture well-rounded individuals," she states.

In her experience, some strengths of the Philippine educational system that Marie Joy brings to her classroom abroad include resilience, resourcefulness, and adaptability. Filipino educators are known for their creativity and dedication to overcoming challenges. By embracing a similar mindset, she said she can effectively navigate challenges and provide quality education for her students abroad.

While committed to making a difference wherever Marie Joy harbors aspirations to return to the Philippines someday, contributing to the development of Philippine education and inspiring the next generation holds great significance. However, her decision will depend on various factors.

For Filipino teachers considering working abroad, Marie Joy's advice is to embrace the opportunity for growth, cultural exchange, and professional development. "Working abroad can broaden your horizons and expand your skillset," she says. However, she emphasizes the importance of remaining connected to one's roots and contributing positively to the communities you serve.

Culture Clash and New Beginnings

Moving abroad to teach special education presented Marie Joy with a unique set of challenges. Leaving familiar faces for a new culture brought isolation and loneliness. However, she found solace in exploring her surroundings and connecting with fellow Filipinos and locals. Traveling and befriending other Filipinos fostered a sense of belonging in her host country.

As a J1 teacher, Marie Joy encountered obstacles distinct from those in the Philippines – language barriers, curriculum differences, and cultural expectations. Communicating effectively required patience and creativity, while adapting to a new curriculum demanded flexibility. She embraced cultural differences in teaching styles and classroom dynamics, constantly learning and adapting.

Teaching special education abroad offers a unique blend of advantages and disadvantages. It provides professional growth, cultural exchange, and exposure to diverse methodologies. However, navigating unfamiliar systems, adapting to cultural norms, and addressing students' needs in a new context pose challenges.

To cater to her students' needs, Marie Joy prioritizes inclusivity, differentiation, and cultural responsiveness in her teaching. This includes using visual aids, hands-on learning, and fostering a supportive classroom environment. She also shares Filipino culture through storytelling, music, food, and celebrations, enriching the learning experience and promoting cross-cultural understanding.

Staying connected with family and friends back home is crucial for Marie Joy. She maintains regular communication through calls, messages, and video chats. Building a community with other Filipinos provides a support network and a shared sense of cultural identity. While cherishing the experiences of teaching abroad, she feels a strong connection to the Philippines. She envisions continuing to teach abroad in the near future, but ultimately, she sees herself returning to contribute to the education sector and make a positive impact on students in her homeland.