Welcome back to our Teacher Feature Series, where we speak with educators who teach online across borders. In this edition, we share the story of Lynette Irizarry and her work with 51Talk American Academy, now known as HAWO American Academy.
Lynette, please tell us about yourself and welcome to the Teacher Feature series.
Lynette Irizarry, also known as Teacher LyLy.
My name is Lynette Irizarry, also known online as Teacher LyLy. I am a Senior Teacher A and an ESL instructor at 51Talk/HAWO American Academy. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Business Marketing from the University of Phoenix and I am certified in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL), TESOL, and as an IELTS Specialist.
How did you land your role at 51Talk/HAWO, and how long have you been working with the company?
I have been with 51Talk/HAWO for nearly two years. A close friend referred me to the company when I faced a major knee surgery and needed a way to work from home during recovery. She believed my personality would be a good fit for teaching children, and I am forever grateful for that encouragement. This opportunity allowed me to continue working while overcoming health challenges, and it has been deeply rewarding to grow professionally in a flexible, supportive environment.
What are two things you find most rewarding about teaching for 51Talk/HAWO?
First, watching students progress from a few words to full sentences and genuine conversation is incredibly fulfilling. Helping children and adults add a second language to their skill set and seeing their confidence grow is the highlight of my work. Second, the dedication and discipline my students show toward learning never ceases to amaze me. Their commitment makes teaching meaningful every day.
Online teaching can be a rewarding experience for teachers. Can you elaborate on an experience or share a particular story that you found surprising?
One of the things I value most about online teaching is the flexibility it provides. There have been times when I wasn’t feeling well or was recovering from surgery but could still teach from home without commuting. That ability to maintain work continuity while taking care of my health is a major advantage of remote teaching.
I’ve also seen how online platforms help students remain consistent with their studies despite interruptions. For instance, some children join class from a parent’s business or a relative’s house and still participate fully. I have a regular six-year-old student who is homeschooled; within a few months of lessons she could sing “You Are My Sunshine” by herself. Watching that moment—when she surprised me by singing after only a few practice sessions—was emotional and deeply rewarding.
Some teachers are resistant to teaching online. What two pieces of advice would you give to other educators who would like to join 51Talk/HAWO?
First, create a dedicated, quiet teaching space in your home—even a small corner will do. Treat it like your classroom: keep props, materials, snacks, and water nearby, and decorate it to make lessons engaging for students. A consistent backdrop helps both you and your students feel focused and professional. Second, establish a regular schedule with clear work hours and breaks. Treating your online teaching hours as a real job—arriving on time, preparing for lessons, and taking planned breaks—helps maintain a healthy work-life balance and improves your overall effectiveness.
If you were mentoring a new teacher, what do you think is most important to share and why?
Patience is essential. Learning a new language takes time, and students need a steady, reassuring presence rather than rushed lessons. New teachers should remember that progress can be gradual and celebrate small milestones. Being patient and supportive builds trust and encourages learners to continue improving.
What is one interesting thing we don’t know about you?
Before teaching full-time, I spent 20 years working as a paralegal. I eventually left that career to pursue what I love: teaching, professional makeup artistry, and baking. Turning my passions into a fulfilling lifestyle has been one of my proudest choices.
If you were going to write a book, what would you call it and what would be the main topic?
Don’t Settle for One Career: You Can Do It All!
What inspires you?
My family inspires me most—my 16-year-old daughter and my husband of 17 years. Their support has been crucial to my journey into ESL teaching and pursuing multiple passions.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I am grateful to 51Talk/HAWO for the opportunity and ongoing support, and to my friend Violeta for recommending this career path. Teaching online has allowed me to thrive professionally while balancing health and family life, and I look forward to continuing to help students learn and grow.