Welcome back to our Teacher Feature Series, where we speak with educators who teach online across borders. Today we share the story of Shaundra Schlapia and her work with HAWO American Academy.
Shaundra, please tell us about yourself.
HAWO American Academy Educator, Shaundra Schlapia
My name is Shaundra Schlapia. I teach one-on-one lessons to elementary and middle-grade students through HAWO American Academy. I have been an elementary school teacher for 14 years. I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies in Elementary Education and a Master’s Degree in Education. I have also completed Florida’s ESOL requirements to remain a highly qualified teacher. In my online classroom I focus on building confidence, conversational skills, and a positive relationship with English for students who already receive instruction in school.
How did you join HAWO American Academy, and how long have you worked with the company?
I was looking for part-time work with children and researched how to apply to 51Talk (now HAWO American Academy). After reading the role expectations I had a pleasant Skype interview and began teaching. At the end of July I had been with HAWO American Academy for one year and five months. The application and interview process was straightforward, and the position fit well with my desire to teach from home while maintaining flexibility.
What are two of the most rewarding aspects of teaching for HAWO American Academy?
There are many rewards, but two stand out. First, I help students practice authentic American English in relaxed, one-on-one lessons that complement their school classes. This focused practice helps students build confidence and fluency. Second, I can bring my genuine, fun-loving personality into the lessons. We sing, laugh, talk, and learn together. That joy and playfulness—things I missed at times in a traditional classroom—are core to my online teaching practice.
Can you share a surprising or inspiring experience from your online teaching?
Teaching online has been deeply rewarding. One surprising benefit is the way my evaluations come directly from students and parents, since I work as a contractor with HAWO American Academy. While I follow company guidelines, the immediate feedback from the families I teach allows me to reflect and adjust independently. That autonomy gives me the time and space to plan improvements and refine lessons without the distractions of external evaluations from people who are not in my classroom daily.
Some teachers resist online teaching. What two pieces of advice would you give educators considering HAWO?
First, accept that teaching on camera takes practice. At first you may feel like you’re looking into a mirror and be surprised by your own expressions. With time you’ll become comfortable and naturally expressive in front of the camera. Second, be clear about why you want to teach online. Ask yourself: Do you enjoy working with children? Do you want to connect with people around the world? Do you need extra income or a flexible schedule? If the answers align with your goals and you meet the qualifications, online teaching can be a rewarding career or side job.
If mentoring a new teacher, what are the two most important things they should know and why?
First, your initial lessons will not be perfect—and that’s okay. Take time to prepare and review the lesson materials provided by HAWO for each student. Good preparation reduces stress and improves student engagement. Second, use props and simple classroom tools to make lessons memorable. Small items—books, toys, colorful pens, stickers, or a treasure box—can strengthen connections with students, especially during the first few lessons. Dollar stores and supplies from previous classroom experience are great resources. I also borrow toys from my daughter and sometimes let my cats make a cameo to help students relax and smile.
How has teaching from home affected your personal and professional life?
Teaching from home has brought balance and flexibility. I can schedule as many students as I choose and tailor my work hours to fit my life. Being at home allows me to bring more of myself into lessons—my energy, humor, and expressive teaching style—which helps students feel comfortable and engaged. My lesson memos even end with “Have fun learning!” because I believe genuine enjoyment helps students learn best.
What is one interesting thing we might not know about you?
I love gardening, photography (capturing life, not selfies), fishing, and animals. I live in Texas with my family and three cats and have recently returned to Texas after a move. I also collect and hoard books, pencils, markers, and crayons for my students—there’s something nostalgic about the smell of a Crayola crayon that I still appreciate.
If you were to write a book, what would it be called and what would it be about?
The first book I would write might be titled Wanted… Knowledge of a Forty-Plus Year-Old Woman for Me at Year 18. It would reflect on lessons learned over time, blending personal growth, teaching insights, and the practical wisdom that comes from years in the classroom and working online.
What or who inspires you?
Family, children, and the natural world are my greatest sources of inspiration. Their curiosity and resilience remind me daily why I teach.
Anything else you’d like to share?
Perhaps I should write that book. In the meantime, I remain grateful for the chance to teach, connect, and learn with students from around the world through HAWO American Academy.
About Shaundra Schlapia
Shaundra Schlapia lives in Texas with her family. She enjoys gardening, teaching, photography, fishing, cooking, and caring for animals. As an online educator, she focuses on creating joyful, engaging lessons that help students build confidence and practical English skills.