006- Global Learning with Cheryl Graff

🗓️ Episode Summary:

This week on No Name Paper, we’re talking to Cheryl Graff—a Chicago-based high school special education teacher who turned an unexpected opportunity into a powerful cross-cultural learning experience. What started as a chance encounter has now grown into a thriving exchange program between her students and families in Germany.

Cheryl shares how she coordinates international travel for students with special needs, the life lessons learned through immersive cultural exchange, and what it’s like to flip the script by hosting German students here in the U.S. It’s part teacher talk, part travel guide, and packed with insights on turning the world into a classroom.

✈️ Whether you're a travel-loving educator or someone dreaming about launching your own exchange program, this episode is filled with real talk, planning tips, and unforgettable stories.

🎒 In This Episode:

• How Cheryl got started with student travel and exchange

• The logistics of sending and hosting international students

• Why cultural experiences are especially powerful for students with special needs

• Teachable moments from overseas misadventures

• A lightning round game: “Pack It or Pass It?”

• Cheryl’s must-pack travel item (and what she’ll never pack again)

💬 Guest:
Cheryl Graff – Special Education High School Teacher & Exchange Program Coordinator

🎧 Listen now and subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts!

📝 Mentioned:

• Student exchange partnerships with Germany

• Inclusive travel for special education students

• Ferris Bueller vibes 😎

🧳 Want to share your own travel-teaching story or leave us a message?
Record a voice note for a future episode at: speakpipe.com/NoNamePaper

📣 PD Bonus:
Use the code PODCASTLOVE at checkout on TeachersDeserveIt.com for a special listener discount on educator resources!