Thanks, Mamava for your insight. I'm just going to start applying and seeing what I'm offered. Nothing beats a failure, but a try.

Thank you so much for this.

You are correct, I will be entering the IS scene with 3 dependents. I previously read that administrators were afforded with greater benefits, thanks for confirming this. I was just concerned since this will be my first admin position at an international school and I wasn't sure how well I will fare with no IS experience. I will continue researching, however I want to thank you for giving me a few specific areas to target during my research.

Greetings everyone!!

I have searched this forum up and down, side to side, only to become quite overwhelmed with all of the great information. I am looking for some advice for my situation.

I have worked for the last 10 years in an urban district, with ECE, Elem Ed. and Admin Certs, with the last 4 years being a middle school administrator, math instructional coach, and testing coordinator. I just got my husband onboard with the whole expat life, however of course I have so reservations. We will be traveling with two kids,12 years and 7 years.

I am considering UAE, or East Asia. Here are some of my questions:
Would it be best for me to apply for an admin position or as a teacher with hopes of moving up, since I have no international experience?
What place(s) offer the best packages for teachers with dependents (with free or low cost schooling)?
Also, what area would be best for my children? I have a little girl and of course I have concerns about raising her in the ME.
How restrictive is the ME? We like to have a little fun and don't want to end up locked up/deported because we got a little too comfortable.
Can anyone chime in on life in Asia, specifically around pollution?

To sum it all up, I am looking for the best (and safest) experience for my family that will allow for us to explore a new culture, while being able to save a good amount of money.

Any help that can be offered will be appreciated!