Teachers Abroad Chatboard

D. Thomas Well, a large percentage of elementary teachers are younger and female in the US which is more of a statement about demographics than hiring preferences. Int'l schools are obviously more selective, but I would guess it makes sense that there is still a large percentage there too. My experience and perception is that schools generally like a mix of ...See MoreWell, a large percentage of elementary teachers are younger and female in the US which is more of a statement about demographics than hiring preferences. Int'l schools are obviously more selective, but I would guess it makes sense that there is still a large percentage there too. My experience and perception is that schools generally like a mix of younger/older, single/married, male/female.

My school is a very small sample but all of the teachers are female and most are 40+. My wife's school is a mix of younger and older females in the lower grades. Lately I've seen many younger females taking advantage of the very generous maternity benefits at int'l schools so if I was a principal, I'd think twice about hiring too many young women in their prime child bearing years.

Thailand was nice. Very relaxing. We never did make it out of the resort though. Next time we'll try and do more of a real Thai experience and/or go to one of the less traveled beaches/areas.

On 2/05/11, Dave -> Thomas wrote: > I was kinda shocked too, but thats my principals opinion. I look around > though and the lower primary grades are usually staffed by a majority of > "younger" teachers, and upon reflection of the places I've taught > (including much of asia) I think thats a pretty accurate generalization. > Given it's only a generalization, and I know plenty of exceptions. What's > the makeup of your schools lower primary grades? > > How's Thailand? > > > On 2/04/11, D. Thomas wrote: >> I know you'll be shocked that I disagree with you. Or at the very >> least I think that's a massive over generalization. OK, so the >> region/location where being in your 40's could be an issue is in the >> elementary (1st-3rd grade), at your school, in Rome. Good to know! :D >> >> On 2/04/11, Dave wrote: >>> Europe to start, at the first through third grade level they tend to >>> like the teachers younger. I asked my principal and all else being >>> equal hed prefer hiring a candidate in her 20s for 1st grade, then >>> someone in her 40's.... >>> >>> On 2/04/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>> Just curious, which regions/locations would being 45 possibly be >>>> an issue? >>>> >>>> >>>> On 2/04/11, Dave -> Kirsten wrote: >>>>> The two big recruiting companies Search Associates (SA) and >>>>> International School Services (ISS) hold the "Big" highly >>>>> attended job fairs. Their list of Job Fairs can be found here >>>>> >>>>> [link removed]

Feb 5, 2011

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advice?

by k

Feb 4, 2011

looking into international schools.

I am:

1) single parent-need advice re: which countries friendly, which difficult for single MOM

2) 6 year exp science/special ed

3) looking to live comfortably/save

advice?

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Dave *Sigh*

On 2/05/11, D. Thomas wrote: > Is that what they call it in Bangkok (and does it cost more than 500 > baht)? :-D > > On 2/05/11, Dave wrote: >> Taking the high road... >> >> On 2/05/11, k wrote: >>> D. >>> I have one child so that works out neatly. I was looking at >>> Bangko...See More*Sigh*

On 2/05/11, D. Thomas wrote: > Is that what they call it in Bangkok (and does it cost more than 500 > baht)? :-D > > On 2/05/11, Dave wrote: >> Taking the high road... >> >> On 2/05/11, k wrote: >>> D. >>> I have one child so that works out neatly. I was looking at >>> Bangkok as well. Aside from having to pick my way through the >>> piles of used condoms that Dave may have left (based on his posts >>> on other boards), it seems to be family friendly as well. I >>> really prefer a science post but to live well internationally I >>> have no problem going back to sped. >>> >>> >>> >>> On 2/04/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>> Hi: >>>> >>>> There are a couple of factors to consider. First, how many >>>> children do you have? Virtually all schools will offer >>>> tuition free placements for teacher's children, but generally >>>> one per teacher is routine. Many schools will agree to more >>>> but it may put you at a slight disadvantage. >>>> >>>> Now, as for the country being friendly for single moms I >>>> guess that could be interpreted in a few ways. I think a >>>> country where you could easily afford help would be very >>>> friendly for you. Also, a country where there are no >>>> limitations on what you can (or would feel comfortable doing) >>>> as a single woman. On both of those counts, I would highly >>>> recommend Asia, China in particular. I'm in Beijing and help >>>> with childcare and cleaning is readily available and very >>>> inexpensive. You could find a fulltime ayi for as little as >>>> 3000rmb per month ($450) which would be a great help and time >>>> saver for you. They could shop, cook, clean, babysit etc. >>>> >>>> Also, Beijing as a city and a society would be wide open for >>>> you and getting around by taxi or subway is safe, easy and >>>> reasonably priced. Science and SPED are both in demand areas >>>> (although most SPED positions will be learning support) and >>>> so you should get some interest from schools. The cost of >>>> living in China is fairly inexpensive and many schools pay >>>> well enough (and pay for housing) that you could still live >>>> well and save some money. >>>> >>>> I'm also a SPED teacher by trade. Feel free to email me with >>>> any specific questions or concerns. >>>> >>>> mOn 2/04/11, k wrote: >>>>> looking into international schools. >>>>> >>>>> I am: >>>>> >>>>> 1) single parent-need advice re: which countries friendly, >>>>> which difficult for single MOM >>>>> >>>>> 2) 6 year exp science/special ed >>>>> >>>>> 3) looking to live comfortably/save >>>>> >>>>> advice?

Feb 5, 2011

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Dave -> K High Road...

On 2/05/11, k wrote: > Com e on Dave - a little harmless fun. Granted it's at your expense but I > think you can roll with it after all the drama on the boards that swirls > around you. Pour a glass of super tuscan & kick back! > > On 2/05/11, D. Thomas wrote: >> Is that what they call it in Bangkok (...See MoreHigh Road...

On 2/05/11, k wrote: > Com e on Dave - a little harmless fun. Granted it's at your expense but I > think you can roll with it after all the drama on the boards that swirls > around you. Pour a glass of super tuscan & kick back! > > On 2/05/11, D. Thomas wrote: >> Is that what they call it in Bangkok (and does it cost more than 500 >> baht)? :-D >> >> On 2/05/11, Dave wrote: >>> Taking the high road... >>> >>> On 2/05/11, k wrote: >>>> D. >>>> I have one child so that works out neatly. I was looking at >>>> Bangkok as well. Aside from having to pick my way through the >>>> piles of used condoms that Dave may have left (based on his posts >>>> on other boards), it seems to be family friendly as well. I >>>> really prefer a science post but to live well internationally I >>>> have no problem going back to sped. >>>> >>>> >>>> >>>> On 2/04/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>> Hi: >>>>> >>>>> There are a couple of factors to consider. First, how many >>>>> children do you have? Virtually all schools will offer >>>>> tuition free placements for teacher's children, but generally >>>>> one per teacher is routine. Many schools will agree to more >>>>> but it may put you at a slight disadvantage. >>>>> >>>>> Now, as for the country being friendly for single moms I >>>>> guess that could be interpreted in a few ways. I think a >>>>> country where you could easily afford help would be very >>>>> friendly for you. Also, a country where there are no >>>>> limitations on what you can (or would feel comfortable doing) >>>>> as a single woman. On both of those counts, I would highly >>>>> recommend Asia, China in particular. I'm in Beijing and help >>>>> with childcare and cleaning is readily available and very >>>>> inexpensive. You could find a fulltime ayi for as little as >>>>> 3000rmb per month ($450) which would be a great help and time >>>>> saver for you. They could shop, cook, clean, babysit etc. >>>>> >>>>> Also, Beijing as a city and a society would be wide open for >>>>> you and getting around by taxi or subway is safe, easy and >>>>> reasonably priced. Science and SPED are both in demand areas >>>>> (although most SPED positions will be learning support) and >>>>> so you should get some interest from schools. The cost of >>>>> living in China is fairly inexpensive and many schools pay >>>>> well enough (and pay for housing) that you could still live >>>>> well and save some money. >>>>> >>>>> I'm also a SPED teacher by trade. Feel free to email me with >>>>> any specific questions or concerns. >>>>> >>>>> mOn 2/04/11, k wrote: >>>>>> looking into international schools. >>>>>> >>>>>> I am: >>>>>> >>>>>> 1) single parent-need advice re: which countries friendly, >>>>>> which difficult for single MOM >>>>>> >>>>>> 2) 6 year exp science/special ed >>>>>> >>>>>> 3) looking to live comfortably/save >>>>>> >>>>>> advice?

Feb 5, 2011

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retirement question

by Curious

Feb 5, 2011

Do international schools normally offer retirement packages? I teach in a private (Episcopal) prep school that not only pays well but offers a great retirement deal. I'm looking for a change but hate to give up all the perks. Another random question--does the typical international school have a large turnover? My family hosted an exchange student w...See More

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Curious > Dave "a lot of westerners start getting tired of the work ethic" This kid was lazier than sin... and was way full of himself. He had no work ethic whatsoever. But he came from a wealthy family, and I am assuming had never had to do for himself. Probably not the norm in China. On 2/05/11, Dave -> Curious wrote: > Some schools do, but most retiremen...See More

Feb 5, 2011

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Dave -> Curious Im sorry i ddint explain well, chinese schools and admins expect a lot out of their teachers. It can sometimes seem like a never ending road of work

On 2/05/11, Curious > Dave wrote: > "a lot of westerners start getting tired of the work ethic" This > kid was lazier than sin... and was way full of himself. He had > no work eth...See MoreIm sorry i ddint explain well, chinese schools and admins expect a lot out of their teachers. It can sometimes seem like a never ending road of work

On 2/05/11, Curious > Dave wrote: > "a lot of westerners start getting tired of the work ethic" This > kid was lazier than sin... and was way full of himself. He had > no work ethic whatsoever. But he came from a wealthy family, > and I am assuming had never had to do for himself. Probably not > the norm in China. On 2/05/11, Dave -> Curious wrote: >> Some schools do, but most retirement systems are based on >> government pensions. The high end elite schools usually ahve >> low turnover the second tier and lower schools usually do. One >> of the things with China, is if you dont marry their and start >> a family and start looking at making it a life time gig, a lot >> of westerners start getting tired of the work ethic, and what >> amount to as small wages. A typical 2nd tier school might only >> pay 12000 RMB a month which is about 2,000 USD a month and >> well thats not exactley the high life back in the states. Most >> professional teachers use Asia as a starting point building >> international experience and getting IB experience hoping to >> jump to Europe at some point (or Japan/Singapore). In my >> experience the people that stay in China, S. Korea, Thailand >> etc are the people (guys) who meet a girl and get married. >> >> No offense but even in China Chongqing is no ones ideal place >> to "settle down", eventually even the teachers who want to >> stay in china, want to move to Shanghai, Beijing, or Hong >> kong. >> >> GoOn 2/05/11, Curious wrote: >>> Do international schools normally offer retirement >>> packages? I teach in a private (Episcopal) prep school that >>> not only pays well but offers a great retirement deal. I'm >>> looking for a change but hate to give up all the perks. >>> Another random question--does the typical international >>> school have a large turnover? My family hosted an exchange >>> student who attended a boarding school in Chongqing, China >>> and he said that the American teachers normally just lasted >>> a couple of years. Just curious why that would be. He >>> didn't seem to know.

Feb 6, 2011

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Not a tier 1 school!

by JD

Feb 6, 2011

More advice taken as I have applied to a position in Bangladesh. School looks nice enough but, wow. That region can be very challenging. Any experiences, thoughts or criticisms?

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Dave I got the impression that in JD's first round he was applying to mainly asian schools??? As far as asian schools go though I have to disagree, the principal may not be asian but the people in human resources most likely are, and they are the ones you deal with unless the principal wants to interview you, which would render the issue of feedback mot...See MoreI got the impression that in JD's first round he was applying to mainly asian schools??? As far as asian schools go though I have to disagree, the principal may not be asian but the people in human resources most likely are, and they are the ones you deal with unless the principal wants to interview you, which would render the issue of feedback mote, since JD's issue is that he's not getting interviews.

On 2/09/11, D. Thomas wrote: > That makes perfect sense (except that most of the > people he will actually be > applying to are not actually Asian). > >>> You maybe reading a little too much into my posts. >>> I'm not looking to be reassured or have my ego >>> stroked, but instead I would like some constructive >>> feedback. A chance to brush up on my interview >>> skills. Possibly a dialogue to feel out unfamiliar >>> territory, overseas employment is new to me. >>> Although I can pull out a few nuggets of truth in >>> your post, without overseas or IB experience I am >>> not going to be the most desired candidate. I know >>> that. I don't feel my wife is so much of burden as >>> all 28 schools I have applied to need both of us. >>> It really is the year of the counselor. In fact, I >>> maybe bringing her down? In the next couple of >>> weeks the fairs will die down and you're right, we >>> might see some interest then. >>> >>> >>> >>> >>>> On 2/08/11, Dave -> JD wrote: So basically >>>> you"d like some reassurance and some ego >>>> stroking? Would a hug make you feel better? >>>> Honestly your suffering from ethnocentrisim. Just >>>> because your an american and a science teacher >>>> the elite schools are not going to through >>>> themselves at you. Yes your field is in demand >>>> but thats including not just the elite and tier >>>> one schools but the tier 2 and tier 3 schools. >>>> >>>> Without looking at your resume I cant really tell >>>> you if there is anything wrong with it. 1) >>>> Schools like to see IB experience, thats a big >>>> seller. 2) Schools tend to prefer teachers who >>>> have direct experience with the subject and grade >>>> level. Just because your certified to teach >>>> physics, doesn't mean as much if you have >>>> actually taught physics. Its the same for grade >>>> level. If you've been teaching 9th grade biology, >>>> thats what there going to consider you >>>> "experienced" at. 3) Schools like >>>> qualifications, advance degrees and >>>> certifications. whenever I apply to a school I >>>> attach a copy of my state certification (I have >>>> 20 certifications) which tends to get their >>>> attention. 4) Experience, if your unemployed your >>>> going to be less attractive then someone who is >>>> already employed. 5) Schools prefer to hire >>>> teachers they can interiew in person, and with >>>> the job fairs, and the lunar new year ending just >>>> this week a lot of those schools are busy looking >>>> at those candidates, that they can interview >>>> directly. 6) Understand some of your weaknesses, >>>> you have a wife who will be difficult to find a >>>> position for. They are going to see her and any >>>> kids as "costs". Honestly, your not >>>> going to make the top of anyones pile that way. >>>> As time goes by though and the pool of candidates >>>> becomes smaller, you will be seen as a more >>>> viable candidate. >>>> >>>> >>>> On 2/07/11, JD wrote: >>>>> Well, I would at least like an interview of >>>>> some kind. Maybe I would find out how to tweak >>>>> the CV or what kind of professional development >>>>> they would like see. I feel like my application >>>>> has a big piece of spinach on its teeth that I >>>>> don't realize is there. >>>>> >>>>>> On 2/06/11, Dave -> JD wrote: I take it your >>>>>> getting desperate? >>>>>> >>>>>> On 2/06/11, JD wrote: >>>>>>> More advice taken as I have applied to a >>>>>>> position in Bangladesh. School looks nice >>>>>>> enough but, wow. That region can be very >>>>>>> challenging. Any experiences, thoughts or >>>>>>> criticisms?

Feb 9, 2011

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D. Thomas Maybe. But I still recall applying to many schools in Asia that went directly to the principal. Some I heard from (usally close to a fair) many I didn't.

On 2/09/11, Dave wrote: > I got the impression that in JD's first round he was > applying to mainly asian schools??? As far as asian schools > go though I have to disagree, the p...See MoreMaybe. But I still recall applying to many schools in Asia that went directly to the principal. Some I heard from (usally close to a fair) many I didn't.

On 2/09/11, Dave wrote: > I got the impression that in JD's first round he was > applying to mainly asian schools??? As far as asian schools > go though I have to disagree, the principal may not be > asian but the people in human resources most likely are, > and they are the ones you deal with unless the principal > wants to interview you, which would render the issue of > feedback mote, since JD's issue is that he's not getting > interviews. > > > On 2/09/11, D. Thomas wrote: >> That makes perfect sense (except that most of the >> people he will actually be >> applying to are not actually Asian). >> >>>> You maybe reading a little too much into my posts. >>>> I'm not looking to be reassured or have my ego >>>> stroked, but instead I would like some constructive >>>> feedback. A chance to brush up on my interview >>>> skills. Possibly a dialogue to feel out unfamiliar >>>> territory, overseas employment is new to me. >>>> Although I can pull out a few nuggets of truth in >>>> your post, without overseas or IB experience I am >>>> not going to be the most desired candidate. I know >>>> that. I don't feel my wife is so much of burden as >>>> all 28 schools I have applied to need both of us. >>>> It really is the year of the counselor. In fact, I >>>> maybe bringing her down? In the next couple of >>>> weeks the fairs will die down and you're right, we >>>> might see some interest then. >>>> >>>> >>>> >>>> >>>>> On 2/08/11, Dave -> JD wrote: So basically >>>>> you"d like some reassurance and some ego >>>>> stroking? Would a hug make you feel better? >>>>> Honestly your suffering from ethnocentrisim. Just >>>>> because your an american and a science teacher >>>>> the elite schools are not going to through >>>>> themselves at you. Yes your field is in demand >>>>> but thats including not just the elite and tier >>>>> one schools but the tier 2 and tier 3 schools. >>>>> >>>>> Without looking at your resume I cant really tell >>>>> you if there is anything wrong with it. 1) >>>>> Schools like to see IB experience, thats a big >>>>> seller. 2) Schools tend to prefer teachers who >>>>> have direct experience with the subject and grade >>>>> level. Just because your certified to teach >>>>> physics, doesn't mean as much if you have >>>>> actually taught physics. Its the same for grade >>>>> level. If you've been teaching 9th grade biology, >>>>> thats what there going to consider you >>>>> "experienced" at. 3) Schools like >>>>> qualifications, advance degrees and >>>>> certifications. whenever I apply to a school I >>>>> attach a copy of my state certification (I have >>>>> 20 certifications) which tends to get their >>>>> attention. 4) Experience, if your unemployed your >>>>> going to be less attractive then someone who is >>>>> already employed. 5) Schools prefer to hire >>>>> teachers they can interiew in person, and with >>>>> the job fairs, and the lunar new year ending just >>>>> this week a lot of those schools are busy looking >>>>> at those candidates, that they can interview >>>>> directly. 6) Understand some of your weaknesses, >>>>> you have a wife who will be difficult to find a >>>>> position for. They are going to see her and any >>>>> kids as "costs". Honestly, your not >>>>> going to make the top of anyones pile that way. >>>>> As time goes by though and the pool of candidates >>>>> becomes smaller, you will be seen as a more >>>>> viable candidate. >>>>> >>>>> >>>>> On 2/07/11, JD wrote: >>>>>> Well, I would at least like an interview of >>>>>> some kind. Maybe I would find out how to tweak >>>>>> the CV or what kind of professional development >>>>>> they would like see. I feel like my application >>>>>> has a big piece of spinach on its teeth that I >>>>>> don't realize is there. >>>>>> >>>>>>> On 2/06/11, Dave -> JD wrote: I take it your >>>>>>> getting desperate? >>>>>>> >>>>>>> On 2/06/11, JD wrote: >>>>>>>> More advice taken as I have applied to a >>>>>>>> position in Bangladesh. School looks nice >>>>>>>> enough but, wow. That region can be very >>>>>>>> challenging. Any experiences, thoughts or >>>>>>>> criticisms?

Feb 9, 2011

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Black Teachers Abroad?

by iTeachTexas11

Feb 11, 2011

Hi Everyone. Hopefully this topic won't get flamed, but I'm really interested in learning more about teaching abroad. From the limited research I've done, most, if not all, countries require a BS or BA as a minimum, which I do have. I also understand that it's very difficult to land a position in Europe. I would really like more information from pe...See More

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Murri On 2/12/11, Dave wrote: > I should have been more specific. There is a preference in many asian > countries for white people, that doesn't mean its 'bad" for colored > people. Most of the complaints I've heard are regarding getting hired. As > I said the preference is towards white people, and at private schools that > is one of the ...See MoreOn 2/12/11, Dave wrote: > I should have been more specific. There is a preference in many asian > countries for white people, that doesn't mean its 'bad" for colored > people. Most of the complaints I've heard are regarding getting hired. As > I said the preference is towards white people, and at private schools that > is one of the expectations that the parents have. They just feel that > black people are inferior, though they would never be anything but polite > to you. > While I know and understand what you are saying, the wonderful thing about it is that Black people know that they are not inferior. And since the most one could ever hope for from any group of people, at home or abroad, is politeness and respect, I say don't let anything stop you from following your dreams, iTeachTexas, and see for yourself how rich, meaningful and mutual fulfilling interacting in a global context can be. > > On 2/11/11, iTeachTexas wrote: >> Thanks murri for your response! I also found a couple of blogs to get >> more info. >> >> >> On 2/11/11, murri wrote: >>> On 2/11/11, murri wrote: >>>> On 2/11/11, Dave wrote: >>>>> Many asian countries have a culture that discriminate against >>>>> black people. >>>>> >>>>> >>>>> On 2/11/11, iTeachTexas11 wrote: >>>>>> Hi Everyone. Hopefully this topic won't get flamed, but >>>>>> I'm really interested in learning more about teaching >>>>>> abroad. From the limited research I've done, most, if not >>>>>> all, countries require a BS or BA as a minimum, which I do >>>>>> have. I also understand that it's very difficult to land a >>>>>> position in Europe. >>>>>> I would really like more information from people of color >>>>>> that have done teaching abroad. I would like to know if >>>>>> there are any blacks on this board that are currently >>>>>> teaching overseas who could share their insight with me >>>>>> about their experiences, and maybe what countries to >>>>>> avoid. Thanks >>>> >>>> Hi. I'm Black and I taught in Japan after college for 2 years. >>>> The people in the company that I worked with (all Japanese) were >>>> wonderful to me. I taught English and I had many students >>>> request me. Yes, there was staring and pointing (which got to >>>> me at times) but I expected it and my personality is one that >>>> just wants to have adventure and to understand people. I was >>>> prepared for a crazy racist experience in Japan, but I did not >>>> experience it. I look back with fond memories and am happy I >>>> had the opportunity to work and learn abroad. I know of at least >>>> two White women who trained with me over in Japan who left the >>>> country in less than 4 months because they could not deal with >>>> the level of discrimination that they experienced. >>>> >>>> I did run into several Black men, one said that he loved not >>>> being harassed in Japan by the police just because he was >>>> driving an expensive sports car. Japan can be a racist place to >>>> live, but I believe that it extends to every and anybody that is >>>> not Japanese. Actually, I felt more for the plight of >> Koreans >>>> (trying to pass) than I did as a Black woman over there. >>>> >>>> Compared to the other Asian countries that I have visited, Japan >>>> is less foreign friendly and welcoming, than say Thailand (my >>>> absolute FAVORITE country in the world!!!!!!) My husband and I >>>> visit Thailand every other year and hope to return this summer >>>> with other family members. Don't even get me started on the time >>>> of your life you can have in Bangkok/Thailand. My husband may >>>> have the opportunity to work in Singapore (Had a fun time there >>>> too, twice) . If we are able to do it we think that it will >> be a >>>> great opportunity for our kids to learn Chinese (they are very >>>> young) and experience a region of the world we like so much. >>>> And as for Europe, I have yet to meet an African American that >>>> did not love it there.

Feb 12, 2011

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SchoolPsyc You may want to join "International Schools Reviews." It only costs $25. You could follow the links to the schools in Japan to search their employment vacancies, apply, and send CVs. You could also get a better idea of the positives and negatives of each school in Japan.

I wish you the best of luck. I am sure you will have a great experien...See MoreYou may want to join "International Schools Reviews." It only costs $25. You could follow the links to the schools in Japan to search their employment vacancies, apply, and send CVs. You could also get a better idea of the positives and negatives of each school in Japan.

I wish you the best of luck. I am sure you will have a great experience.

On 2/12/11, Murri wrote: > On 2/12/11, Dave wrote: >> I should have been more specific. There is a >> preference in many asian countries for white people, >> that doesn't mean its 'bad" for colored people. >> Most of the complaints I've heard are regarding >> getting hired. As I said the preference is towards >> white people, and at private schools that is one of >> the expectations that the parents have. They just >> feel that black people are inferior, though they >> would never be anything but polite to you. >> > While I know and understand what you are saying, the > wonderful thing about it is that Black people know that > they are not inferior. And since the most one could > ever hope for from any group of people, at home or > abroad, is politeness and respect, I say don't let > anything stop you from following your dreams, > iTeachTexas, and see for yourself how rich, meaningful > and mutual fulfilling interacting in a global context > can be. >> >> On 2/11/11, iTeachTexas wrote: >>> Thanks murri for your response! I also found a >>> couple of blogs to get more info. >>> >>> >>> On 2/11/11, murri wrote: >>>> On 2/11/11, murri wrote: >>>>> On 2/11/11, Dave wrote: >>>>>> Many asian countries have a culture that >>>>>> discriminate against black people. >>>>>> >>>>>> >>>>>> On 2/11/11, iTeachTexas11 wrote: >>>>>>> Hi Everyone. Hopefully this topic won't get >>>>>>> flamed, but I'm really interested in >>>>>>> learning more about teaching abroad. From >>>>>>> the limited research I've done, most, if >>>>>>> not all, countries require a BS or BA as a >>>>>>> minimum, which I do have. I also understand >>>>>>> that it's very difficult to land a position >>>>>>> in Europe. I would really like more >>>>>>> information from people of color that have >>>>>>> done teaching abroad. I would like to know >>>>>>> if there are any blacks on this board that >>>>>>> are currently teaching overseas who could >>>>>>> share their insight with me about their >>>>>>> experiences, and maybe what countries to >>>>>>> avoid. Thanks >>>>> >>>>> Hi. I'm Black and I taught in Japan after >>>>> college for 2 years. The people in the company >>>>> that I worked with (all Japanese) were >>>>> wonderful to me. I taught English and I had >>>>> many students request me. Yes, there was >>>>> staring and pointing (which got to me at times) >>>>> but I expected it and my personality is one >>>>> that just wants to have adventure and to >>>>> understand people. I was prepared for a crazy >>>>> racist experience in Japan, but I did not >>>>> experience it. I look back with fond memories >>>>> and am happy I had the opportunity to work and >>>>> learn abroad. I know of at least two White >>>>> women who trained with me over in Japan who >>>>> left the country in less than 4 months because >>>>> they could not deal with the level of >>>>> discrimination that they experienced. >>>>> >>>>> I did run into several Black men, one said that >>>>> he loved not being harassed in Japan by the >>>>> police just because he was driving an expensive >>>>> sports car. Japan can be a racist place to >>>>> live, but I believe that it extends to every >>>>> and anybody that is not Japanese. Actually, I >>>>> felt more for the plight of >>> Koreans >>>>> (trying to pass) than I did as a Black woman >>>>> over there. >>>>> >>>>> Compared to the other Asian countries that I >>>>> have visited, Japan is less foreign friendly >>>>> and welcoming, than say Thailand (my absolute >>>>> FAVORITE country in the world!!!!!!) My husband >>>>> and I visit Thailand every other year and hope >>>>> to return this summer with other family >>>>> members. Don't even get me started on the time >>>>> of your life you can have in Bangkok/Thailand. >>>>> My husband may have the opportunity to work in >>>>> Singapore (Had a fun time there too, twice) . >>>>> If we are able to do it we think that it will >>> be a >>>>> great opportunity for our kids to learn Chinese >>>>> (they are very young) and experience a region >>>>> of the world we like so much. And as for >>>>> Europe, I have yet to meet an African American >>>>> that did not love it there.

Feb 12, 2011

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Teaching in Japan

by Richard

Feb 11, 2011

I've been following this forum a lot, and wanted to ask straight up. Wha'ts the easiest way of getting a teaching position in Japan. Im certified in science, and a few other areas, but I want to teach science. I want to live and teach in Japan though and all I find are ALT jobs (I dont want to teach ESL) and they pay very little. What am I doing wr...See More

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D. Thomas Well, then you're just going to have to try and be at the right place at the right time. I do recall some science jobs being open at a few decent schools in Japan earlier on in the season. I'll let you know if anything posts in the near future, but you may need to start planning ahead for next year.

On 2/15/11, Richard wrote: > Simply p...See MoreWell, then you're just going to have to try and be at the right place at the right time. I do recall some science jobs being open at a few decent schools in Japan earlier on in the season. I'll let you know if anything posts in the near future, but you may need to start planning ahead for next year.

On 2/15/11, Richard wrote: > Simply put, it has nothing to do with getting "A > job" and everything to do > with living in Japan.... > > > On 2/14/11, D. Thomas wrote: >> Well, basically your strength is your degree and >> certification in Science (which is a high needs >> field). Your experience is a good news/bad news >> thingg (3 years is basically the minimum to be taken >> seriously, many people will have more). >> >> Any kind of overseas experience would be a plus. Many >> schools will prefer experience with an IB program, >> others won't be that concerned with it. A single >> teacher with no dependents is a valued commodity >> (second only to a teaching couple with no dependents) >> by international schools. >> >> Bottom line, getting a good international school >> position is always being a bit lucky and being at the >> right place at the right time. Unfortunately, I did a >> run for you on one of my recruiter sites and there >> were basically no schools in Japan looking for >> Science teachers right now. That doesn't mean they >> aren't out there or won't be before the summer, but >> not seeing much at the moment. What's the big >> attraction to just Japan? Japan is great, but you are >> definitely limiting your potential to get a job. I'll >> keep my eye out for anything that posts. >> >> On 2/13/11, Richard wrote: >>> Is there something I should highlight or focus on >>> when applying? What do you really think my >>> chances/odds are? >>> >>> On 2/12/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>> Then either work your way through the schools on >>>> the JCIS website or.. >>>> >>>> try google...japan..international schools...and >>>> find recruitment..vacancies...employment....on >>>> the school's website. >>>> >>>> Good luck. >>>> >>>> On 2/12/11, Richard wrote: >>>>> I've been on GajinPot and Daves ESL Cafe, >>>>> Footprints recruiting, Nova, Aeon, and Geos but >>>>> they are mostly ESL (with a few other teaching >>>>> positions) They all seem to pay around 250K yen >>>>> for a lot of work and hours. I'm single with no >>>>> kids. I have a masters degree in education, and >>>>> about 3 years 6-12 teaching experience. I'm >>>>> certified to teach 6-12 general/earth science, >>>>> biology, chemistry, and physics. >>>>> >>>>> No offense, but I'm only interested in Japan, >>>>> not China, or anywhere else in Asia. I dont >>>>> have to live in Tokyo, but I do want a major >>>>> city. I looked into Search and ILL but they >>>>> seem expensive considering I'm only interested >>>>> in one specific place, and as you said there >>>>> cant be that many schools. >>>>> >>>>> >>>>> On 2/11/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>> Hi Richard: >>>>>> >>>>>> Japan is amazing. I was there for 2 years >>>>>> teaching at a small international school. I'm >>>>>> now in Beijing and although very different, >>>>>> I'm also really enjoying China (and you >>>>>> should not rule it out. More schools than >>>>>> Japan and lower cost of living). >>>>>> >>>>>> Where have you been looking for jobs? There >>>>>> are a large number of good to decent int'l >>>>>> schools in Japan and those are the ones you >>>>>> need to tap into. Check out the Japan Council >>>>>> of International Schools for a good start. >>>>>> >>>>>> You should be in a good position as a science >>>>>> teacher, depending on your certifications, >>>>>> experience and whether you would have >>>>>> dependents. >>>>>> >>>>>> Feel free to email me if you have specific >>>>>> questions or need some more leads for where >>>>>> to search. If you are serious about this, you >>>>>> may want to invest some money and join Search >>>>>> Associates. They have a great database of >>>>>> schools, jobs etc al over the world. >>>>>> >>>>>> On 2/11/11, Richard wrote: >>>>>>> I've been following this forum a lot, and >>>>>>> wanted to ask straight up. Wha'ts the >>>>>>> easiest way of getting a teaching position >>>>>>> in Japan. Im certified in science, and a >>>>>>> few other areas, but I want to teach >>>>>>> science. I want to live and teach in Japan >>>>>>> though and all I find are ALT jobs (I dont >>>>>>> want to teach ESL) and they pay very >>>>>>> little. What am I doing wrong? Can somebody >>>>>>> help?

Feb 15, 2011

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