MEET THE DEPARTING EDUCATOR — Ms. Mian Abigail Pabustan-Lugtu, 4th Grade Math Teacher

Today’s post comes from our Departing Educator series, featuring team members who came to MAS from other countries to teach in the U.S. on a J-1 visa, a time-limited exchange visa for educators. As Ms. Pabustan-Lugtu’s J-1 visa term ends, she will leave the U.S. and return to the Philippines after joining Team MAS in July 2021.

Over five school years at MAS, she taught math across grade levels, from 5th grade at our Old Coors and Yale campuses, to 6th grade math at Yale, to 4th grade math this year at Yale. Ms. Pabustan-Lugtu says she found a steady support system at MAS and is looking ahead to time with family, plus a new chapter as she prepares for a baby!

Meet Ms. Pabustan-Lugtu in their own words…

MAS: Let’s start at the beginning… Where are you from, and where are you headed next?

MS. PABUSTAN-LUGTU: I am originally from the Philippines, and yes, I am excited to return to my home country.

MAS: What is one of your favorite memories from your time at MAS Charter School?

MS. PABUSTAN-LUGTU: One of my favorite memories at MAS is feeling like I had a family away from home. From my Filipino co-teachers to colleagues of different nationalities, everyone made me feel supported and included. I’m especially grateful to the Math leaders from day one, and to our Founder and CEO Ms. Mitchell, who truly cared for our growth and made MAS feel like one big family.

MAS: What will you miss most about your experience at MAS?

MS. PABUSTAN-LUGTU: What I will miss most about my experience at MAS is teaching my kids math and seeing them learn and grow.

MAS: What will you miss most about your time in the U.S.?

MS. PABUSTAN-LUGTU: What I will miss most about my time in the U.S. is the travels during breaks.

MAS: What were some of your favorite destinations?

MS. PABUSTAN-LUGTU: I visited Utah and enjoyed its national parks and red rock views. In Colorado, I loved the mountains and scenery. Arizona stood out for its canyons and desert landscapes. I also spent time in Las Vegas quite often, and I enjoyed its lively atmosphere. I visited California to spend time with relatives and visit Disneyland. One of my most memorable trips was to Hawaii with my husband for a friend’s wedding, with beaches, tropical views, and time to celebrate.

MAS: What advice would you offer to others who are coming to teach in the U.S.?

MS. PABUSTAN-LUGTU: Believe in yourself and take the opportunity when it comes. Don’t let fear hold you back from something that can be life changing. At the beginning, it may feel overwhelming to be far from home and adjusting to a new environment, but over time, you grow in ways you never expected. You learn new teaching practices, and you discover more about yourself, your strength, independence, and confidence. Living and teaching in another country can feel challenging at times, and it can also become a beautiful journey of learning and self-discovery. I also feel very grateful to have been at MAS, which supported me throughout my journey. Having a school that guides and encourages you makes a big difference, and I consider that a blessing.

MAS: What are your plans for work when you return home?

MS. PABUSTAN-LUGTU: My immediate plan is to rest and be with my family, since I am expecting a baby. I’m excited for this new chapter, and I look forward to slowing down and spending time with loved ones. After this season, I hope to do some light traveling and keep making memories with my family. In terms of work, I am considering returning to teaching after giving birth. I look forward to bringing what I learned in the U.S. back to my students in the Philippines.

MAS: What are a few things you’re most looking forward to doing or eating when you get to where you’re going next?

MS. PABUSTAN-LUGTU: Ohhh! Eat my comfort foods like Jollibee, Mang Inasal, Chowking, and unlimited Korean barbeque!

MAS: Do you have any plans to return to the United States to visit or work in the future?

MS. PABUSTAN-LUGTU: Yes, I would truly love to return to the United States in the future, whether to visit or work again. I am very grateful for my experience and I look forward to the possibility of being part of MAS again someday.

MAS: Last question: What were your favorite restaurants in Albuquerque, and what were your go-to orders?

MS. PABUSTAN-LUGTU: My favorite restaurant in Albuquerque was Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen (5011 Pan American Frwy. NE), and I really loved their salmon steak. My go-to spot for takeout was Basil Leaf (1225 Eubank Blvd NE), a Vietnamese restaurant, where I often enjoyed their dishes whenever I wanted something comforting and delicious. As a Filipino and also Asian myself, I really enjoyed the familiar flavors and comfort it gave me. I will definitely miss these places.

From all of us at MAS, thank you, Ms. Pabustan-Lugtu, for the care you brought to math classrooms across grade levels. We wish you all the best as you welcome your baby, and many good moments with family in the months ahead.