The U.S. Embassy in Ukraine has opened applications for the 2026 Study of the United States Institutes (SUSIs) for Secondary Educators and Teachers. The program is designed to give experienced secondary school educators a deeper understanding of U.S. society, history, and institutions, with the goal of strengthening curricula and improving teaching about the United States in Ukrainian secondary schools.
According to the embassy, "SUSIs are intensive post-graduate level academic programs that provide experienced secondary school educators (including secondary school teachers, administrators, teacher trainers, curriculum developers, textbook writers, Ministry of Education officials, and others) with a deeper understanding of U.S. society and institutions, U.S. history, and American excellence, enhancing teaching about the United States. The program goal is to strengthen curricula and to enhance the quality of teaching about the United States in secondary schools."
The SUSI programs do not focus on English language instruction or teaching methodology; applicants interested in learning how to teach English or incorporate new methodologies will not be prioritized.
Institutes will take place at host universities in the United States during summer 2026 over five to six weeks. Each institute includes a four-week academic residency followed by a one-week study tour across different sites in the country. One institute is tailored specifically for secondary school teachers while another targets experienced administrators such as curriculum developers and ministry officials.
Program content will cover key topics related to American history and founding principles using multidisciplinary approaches aligned with America250 themes—an initiative marking America's upcoming semiquincentennial celebration.
"The University of Montana (UM) in Missoula, Montana, will oversee SUSIs for Secondary Educators Institutes and one of the Institutes for teachers will be held at The Institute for Training and Development (ITD) in Amherst, Massachusetts. California State University, Chico, will conduct the Institute for administrators," stated organizers.
Applicants must submit their materials by January 19, 2026. Priority is given to mid-career professionals aged 30-50 who plan to develop courses or educational materials focused on U.S. studies and have limited prior experience in the United States.
Candidates must be citizens of Ukraine currently residing in Ukraine and demonstrate strong English proficiency as all activities are conducted entirely in English; semi-finalists will interview with an American officer at the embassy.
U.S. citizens or permanent residents are not eligible for this opportunity. Relatives of embassy staff or Fulbright commission employees are also excluded from participation.
All participant costs—including travel expenses within set limits—will be covered by the U.S. Department of State.