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by Cbee78704
Fri Dec 13, 2019 11:38 am
Forum: Forum 1. From Questions About ISS & Search to Anything and Everything About International Teaching
Topic: questions from a newbie
Replies: 5
Views: 7484

questions from a newbie

Do you typically contact current teachers at a school before accepting an offer? When do you do this, if so? And do you use Linked In, Facebook, or do you ask the administrator about suggestions of teachers to contact? What questions do you ask, besides the general "Are you happy there?" type?

At what point do you discuss salary/benefits? Many schools do not have a clear salary scale listed on their website. Is there any room for negotiation, especially if the title includes leadership such as a coordinator position?
by Cbee78704
Mon Sep 03, 2012 2:05 pm
Forum: Forum 1. From Questions About ISS & Search to Anything and Everything About International Teaching
Topic: Considering international teaching- some questions
Replies: 5
Views: 7344

Thanks for the info, everybody. Good to hear SpEd teaching can be enjoyable in international schools.
As for the DOdea schools, June or *maybe* July is as late as I would feel comfortable resigning with my current school district. Ive definitely heard of people who've been 'blacklisted' if they wait until right before school starts, and I really want to continue the good relationships I have with my supervisors. But I'll definitely consider it.
And Walter, I think you're right. I'm starting to think that considering East Asia is a good idea too, for the savings potential.
Thanks again.
by Cbee78704
Mon Sep 03, 2012 12:49 am
Forum: Forum 1. From Questions About ISS & Search to Anything and Everything About International Teaching
Topic: Considering international teaching- some questions
Replies: 5
Views: 7344

Considering international teaching- some questions

I've been an elementary special Ed teacher for the past 8 years, and lately I've considered looking more seriously into teaching in international schools. But I've been struggling with taking the plunge.... I really enjoy the school where I work now (and I love my city), although I'm not a huge fan of the district and general state of public education in the US. I've been looking for a new challenge though.

A little more about me- I have my state SpEd certification, Elementary Ed, Master Reading Teacher, and my National Boards certification in Exceptional Needs Specialist. I also have my Masters in Multicultural SpEd. Although most of my certifications are EC-grade 12, my only experience has been in elementary.
Most of my recent experience has been with kids on the autism spectrum, although I do have experience with students with learning disabilities and behavior disorders as well.

My first question is... While I know I'm well- qualified to teach pretty much anywhere in the US, I would really like to be able to teach at a good international school. And I'm a bit hesitant to go to a job fair... It's just a lot of money... But I'd spend it, if it was truly necessary to be considered by a good school. So, what have been your experiences in getting a good job without going to a job fair and do you think I'd have a good shot?

I should mention that I only have experience teaching EFL abroad for a couple years after college, before I returned to college to study to become a teacher. I know that doesn't really count, but I guess I have some experience living in different cultures at least!

I'm most interested in Eastern Europe or South America. I'm really not interested in the Middle East or Africa at this time.

I'm also interested in current schools with saving potential in Eastern Europe or South America.... I would have a school loan and other bills to pay back home. Is it even feasible financially to teach and live comfortably in those areas when you have bills to pay? I am single, with no children- but I'd like to still be able to enjoy myself a bit. I've looked over the forums and reviews but lots of info is oldish.

Also, does anyone have any info as to what it is like to teach SpEd in international schools? What is the demand like- are there many jobs available? What's the workload and setting typically like? The paperwork in the US can be overwhelming, but I'm no stranger to hard work, so I manage. I'm not against teaching general Ed, but I really do love teaching SpEd, so that'd be my preference.

I'm also interested in DODEA schools, but the fact that I'd have to give such short notice (because i hear they hire late?)to my current school concerns me.
I don't want to burn any bridges.

Thanks for any info you can give.