I wasn't planning on holding out for Caracas, believe me! The school that offered the job and the school in Caracas are the only two with which I've had interviews, so it doesn't seem like I have any other leads currently.

I've applied to schools in all different regions, as there were only a handful countries to where I didn't want to go. I figured I needed to be flexible since this is my first time applying to teach internationally.

I'd hoped to find a job with better pay, but since the savings potential is higher than where I currently am, maybe that's not such a huge consideration, especially as a younger person. Since it seems like a good school and a good fit for me, the director has said she wants me (and even upped my pay a bit by adding on extra years of experience), my questions were answered well, and the fact that I don't currently have other leads, I'm leaning toward accepting the job. I know I have to get my start somewhere!

For those of you following my post about interviewing with a school in Caracas, as well as another South American school, here's the latest update. I had the second interview with the director of the other school (not in Caracas) this evening and...

I've been offered the job! I told the director she'd have my decision within 48 hours. My question is this--as a first time overseas teacher, should I accept an offer this early? The director mentioned that I was the highest rated of all of the candidates interviewed. I'm not sure if that means other schools would find me as desirable or not. I'd be bummed if I got better offers later on. Since the school is in South America, the salary is a bit low (only a couple thousand less than what I'm making now), but I'd still be able to save four times what I'm currently saving here in the U.S. each year and it's tax free.

Reminders about me: single, female elementary-certified teacher; six years experience; Master's degree; experience working with English language learners. This job is for a U.S Department of State assisted school, with about 20% American students, 70% host country kids, and the remainder from other countries. The school seems to be considered the best within the country.

Thanks to everyone for all of the feedback. I have the Skype interview with the school in Caracas tomorrow morning.

Additionally, I had my first Skype interview with another South American school last week. It was conducted by the elementary principal and went well. She then let the school's director know to get in touch with me to set up a second Skype interview.

The director just emailed and wants to set up our Skype time before she goes to the Atlanta recruiting fair next week. Since I'm new to all of this, I'm wondering if this means that the director wants to offer me a job and fill a position before the fair or if it means she wants to interview me to be able to compare me to candidates at the fair. Any thoughts about that? Also, if anyone has any insights into the types of questions or conversations that take place in a second round Skype interview, please let me know. Thanks!

I've also applied at this school and haven't heard anything back. I sent in my information on November 13th, if that helps.

Hi everyone,
I have Skype interviews set up with two schools in South America. One of the schools is in Caracas. I have some concerns about security, as well as product shortages. I've read previous posts on this forum about Caracas, but the most recent one was a year ago or so. I've also read the travel warning from the U.S. Department of State. Does anyone have more recent insights as to safety, as well as availability of basics like soap and toilet paper in Caracas? I'm a single female, if that matters.

Additionally, does anyone have tips for a Skype interview? I've never done one before.

Thanks for the tip. The city where my parents live has an international airport, so I think it'll work out. I appreciate all the replies. I just wanted to make sure I was doing the right thing by using my current address while I'm applying and not shooting myself in the foot later on if I'm offered a job with airfare as a benefit.

Thanks, sid.

Rudolph,
Thanks for your reply. I want to make sure I understand you correctly: the home of record is something that is designated later on in the process, after an offer has been made and travel arrangements are being set? Thanks for the tidbit about regional airports; that's good to know!

Also, thanks for your encouraging words. I do plan to attend the UNI fair, so hopefully your prediction is correct.

Hi everyone,
I'm a U.S. certified elementary teacher (I know, I know, we're a dime a dozen) working on applications to international schools. I've registered with TIE and UNI--with my location and current job, I'm unable to attend a Search fair. I have a couple of questions.
1) I've noticed a lot of schools' sites referring to airfare to and from "home of record" as a benefit. I'm curious how a home of record is designated. I am single and teach in a state half the country away from my family. If I were hired to teach internationally, I would take my belongings to the city where my family lives to be stored there. I would prefer that city to be the city that a school would have me fly to/from. Should I be listing my parents' address in that city on my applications and resume, even though I don't live there or is the home of record designation done later on?

2) I'm in my sixth year of teaching at the same school. I'll have strong references. I have experience with a few different elementary curriculums in reading, math, etc. My school is a Professional Learning Community and uses standards-based grading. I have experience creating common assessments. We are technology-focused and I've had many hours of PD in that area. My school has about 1/3 of students receiving English Language Learner services and I'm currently involved in my districts professional development academy in regards to teaching ELL students. I'm a member of the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports team at my school and was involved in the implementation. I've mentored a first-year teacher.

I know that since I'm seeking my first international job that I should be open to lots of different locations, and I am. I'm wondering if there's anyone who could give me some idea as to my chances of being hired or if there are any certain regions in which someone with my experience could get a job. I plan to apply to schools directly, in addition to my UNI fair credential file.