Ikigai Teacher Project
Where great teachers
find their next classroom.
We connect exceptional educators with K–12 schools across the United States, guiding every step from initial application to placement.
Teaching · Growth · Opportunity
Connecting educators
with new possibilities
Purpose · People · Impact · Growth
Why Ikigai
Teaching is more than a profession. It is a purpose.
Every classroom changes someone’s future. The Ikigai Teacher Project exists to create meaningful connections between educators, schools, and communities so that great teaching can travel further.
- Passion
- Teach what you love.
- Purpose
- Use your strengths to empower others.
- Impact
- Inspire change in the world.
- Growth
- Grow together. Build futures.
One mission. Two journeys.
For Teachers
Take your teaching career further.
Discover teaching opportunities in the United States and receive guidance throughout the application, credentialing, placement, and transition process.
Explore the Teacher JourneyFor Schools
Build a stronger teaching team.
Connect with qualified international educators who bring experience, perspective, and a commitment to student success.
Partner With UsOur Process
A clear path from first application to a new chapter.
01
Discover
Explore opportunities and understand the requirements.
02
Apply
Submit your profile and supporting information.
03
Prepare
Complete credentialing, documentation, interviews, and required preparation.
04
Connect
Meet with schools and explore opportunities that align with your experience.
05
Place
Move forward with the appropriate placement and program coordination.
06
Learn
Gain valuable financial insights to help you navigate your new life in the US.
07
Arrive
Prepare for the transition and begin your new teaching chapter.
08
Thrive
Continue growing with ongoing support and professional resources.
How We Connect The World
We do more than make introductions.
We help build the pathway between educators and the schools that need them.
The
Ikigai
Teacher Project
Teachers
Educators ready to bring their experience, knowledge, and passion into a new classroom.
Schools
K–12 schools looking for qualified educators who can make a meaningful difference.
Program Partners
Organizations that help coordinate the practical steps behind each placement.
Communities
Students, families, and communities shaped by the teachers who join them.
Teachers · Schools · Partners · Communities
One connected pathway
Why Schools Choose Us
More than recruitment. A better match.
01
Qualified Educators
Connect with educators whose experience and qualifications align with your needs.
02
A Structured Process
A clear process from candidate introduction through placement coordination.
03
Human Support
Real people helping navigate questions, documentation, and communication.
04
Long-Term Thinking
We care about the relationship beyond the initial placement.
Trust
Trust is built one step at a time.
Transparent
We clearly explain the process.
Responsive
You have people to talk to when questions arise.
Responsible
We take documentation, communication, and compliance seriously.
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions, answered plainly.
Qualified educators interested in teaching at K-12 schools in the United States can apply. Specific eligibility depends on the program and the requirements of individual schools and states.
Requirements vary by program and destination state, and typically include academic transcripts, teaching credentials, and identification documents. We outline the specific list once your profile is reviewed.
You submit your profile and supporting information, then move through preparation, school connections, and placement coordination. The full sequence is outlined on our Process page.
We review a school's grade levels, subject needs, and preferences alongside a teacher's experience and qualifications, then coordinate introductions where there is a strong alignment.
Our team reviews your application, follows up with any additional documentation needed, and guides you through preparation and credentialing before school connections begin.
Timelines depend on the program, documentation, and school availability. We communicate expected timing at each stage so you know what to expect. Note: Our timelines do not include the visa process.
Some steps in the process, such as credential evaluation or program fees, may involve costs set by third parties. We disclose any applicable fees clearly before you commit to a step.
J-1 and H-1B visa requirements are different. Visa options vary depending on the hiring school, its eligibility requirements, and the applicable immigration regulations. We coordinate with the appropriate program partners for the processing of J-1 and H-1B visas.
We stay in touch after placement to help with the transition and connect you with resources as you settle into your new school community.
This information is general in nature and is not legal advice. Visa and exchange-program requirements vary by program and individual circumstances. Applicants should consult the appropriate official program and government resources.
Your next chapter starts with a conversation.
Whether you are an educator exploring a new opportunity or a school looking for exceptional teachers, we are here to help you understand the next step.