Teachers Abroad Chatboard

by Dave -> Thomas

Feb 15, 2011

So how did the trip to Thailand go? Details??? Were you ready to head back to the classroom?

I dont know if you teach IB or not, but next month we start the "review" for our Diploma exams...

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D. Thomas Thailand was nice. Phuket was interesting, although we mostly only saw the resort (which was nice, kind of like a Thai themed Disneyworld resort with a great stone "temple" for the pool area/slide and a good beach there. We were all so wiped out we really didn't much beyond swim eat and drink. We talked about an elephant trek, a speed boat tour and...See More

Feb 15, 2011

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Dave My winter (really spring) break is next week. I so very much need a week off.

On 2/15/11, D. Thomas wrote: > Thailand was nice. Phuket was interesting, although we mostly > only saw the resort (which was nice, kind of like a Thai > themed Disneyworld resort with a great stone "temple" for the > pool area/slide and a good beach...See More

Feb 15, 2011

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I need to Sub in Germany! Any ideas?

by Denna G.

Feb 16, 2011

Hello! I have just moved to Germany while I do my Master's in teaching and credential from USC (check out the MAT@USC program), but I want to get my foot in the door somewhere as a sub, does anyone have any ideas??

Sara On 2/16/11, Denna G. wrote: > Hello! I have just moved to Germany while I do my Master's > in teaching and credential from USC (check out the MAT@USC > program), but I want to get my foot in the door somewhere > as a sub, does anyone have any ideas??

Sie sollen privat Schulen versuchen. Deutschland hat privat Schulen. But I don...See More

Feb 16, 2011

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SchoolPsyc If you are in the area, and a U.S. citizen, you could apply to sub for DoDDS (Department of Defense Dependents' Schools).

On 2/16/11, Sara wrote: > On 2/16/11, Denna G. wrote: >> Hello! I have just moved to Germany while I do my Master's >> in teaching and credential from USC (check out the MAT@USC >> program), but I w...See More

Feb 16, 2011

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Host Family Need in Leiden

by Akwasi

Feb 17, 2011

Hello,

I am currently studying at the Webster University in Leiden, the Netherlands and would like to spend two months with a host family. Is there anyone out there who could provide me with such an opportunity for a fee or something? You could also recommend someone. Thanks

by David

Feb 22, 2011

Hi I don't know if this is the right place or not. I was just offered a position in Sweden, and wanted some information on salary on cost of living. I'm being offered a salary of 28,000 Kroner a month, plus relocation expenses (flight so far, and am negotiating one month salary up front), and the state health insurance. I've read that it can be ver...See More

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Dave -> School Psyc Ah, so you are Mary's alter ego???, LOL it's good to hear from you. Yes May is coming around time to confirm my application with DODEA again.

How are the economic forces in your state and district going??? I keep hearing on BBC about the Madison teachers in Wisconsin, and how all the public schools are broke.

On 2/25/11, School ...See MoreAh, so you are Mary's alter ego???, LOL it's good to hear from you. Yes May is coming around time to confirm my application with DODEA again.

How are the economic forces in your state and district going??? I keep hearing on BBC about the Madison teachers in Wisconsin, and how all the public schools are broke.

On 2/25/11, School Psyc wrote: > Yes, I am Mary, not her headhunter. > > > On 2/25/11, Dave -> Everyone wrote: >> Does DODEA take over everything??? I'm busy for one week and this is >> what happens. >> >> Dave: (Can i call you Paul?), LOL. I hear where you are coming from. >> I'm single too (well not married no kids, etc) and I know where your >> coming from when you find yourself at a school thats all couples and >> families. I have to say though based on your work description, the >> issue isnt really DoDDS because every teaching job is pretty much as >> you describe. My job in Italy if i wanted to reduce it to bullit >> points would sound the same. The problem for you is when all those >> family people head home thats where they want to be. You on the other >> hand I'm guessing are somewhere in your 20's and you get back to you >> apartment and think do I get on my computer or watch a DVD, and what >> you really want to be doing is heading out to the night life, and quit >> honestly are thinking about getting laid? You might feel your living >> in a senior citizens home, and being a military base where men already >> out number woman 20:1 your feeling a little deprived. I'm guessing in >> South Korea, that your not in Seoul, because if you were you wouldn't >> be "bored". So while your DoDDS job probabley isnt bad, as a realtor >> will tell you the three most important things are "location, location, >> location". My advice is really simple, in your search stick to major >> metro/cosmo cities. In Sweden your talking Stockholm, in Japan Tokyo, >> in China Beijing, Shanghai, Goungzhou, Hong Kong, in the U.K. thats >> London, in France stick with Paris, in Italy Rome's the place to be. >> Lastly, everyone has their deal breakers, and they vary a lot. let me >> ask you IF you had your job somewhere you wanted to be, would you >> still want to leave? >> >> To MS Teacher: I dont think the solution to his problem is to do more >> work in the form of extra curriculars. I'm sorry things are bad back >> in the states I have a lot of friends that are scared out of their >> mind and I get an email every week if I know about any positions. I >> hope you find your eden. >> >> Thomas: Dont confuse me with David, no serious if this forum ever gets >> a moderator I'm voting for you, your just so agreeable. How are things >> going? I had to interview a perspective teacher here, and my kids are >> going nuts over their IB exams coming up. pretty much my week. >> >> School Psyc: Are you Mary's headhunter nowand when did you change your >> name on here? How are things going? >> >> >> On 2/24/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>> And there is nothing wrong with having that perspective and that >>> dream. My wife and I are both teachers and our son has Autism. So >>> DoDDS sounded like a way for us to work overseas and still have a >>> good educational situation for our son. Fortunately, we were able >>> to have all of that without DoDDS, although I would never rule it >>> out for the future. >>> >>> On 2/24/11, MSTeacher wrote: >>>> I never said it was the money. For us, it is about the quality >>>> of life. The opportunity what we could give to our children that >>>> they would not have stateside. Do you know how difficult things >>>> are right now on this side of the world? In Detroit, they are >>>> looking at closing 70 schools and classroom sizes are going to go >>>> up to 60 kids. The state of RI, are looking at cutting 2000 >>>> teaching jobs. Mayor Bloomberg of NYC is looking at cutting >>>> another 6,000 jobs. Did you know that 400,000 teachers lost >>>> their jobs nationwide last year. I don't see it getting any >>>> better. So for my family, DoDDS would be the dream job. >>>> >>>> >>>> On 2/24/11, School Psyc wrote: >>>>> David, thank you for your post. I appreciate your >>>>> honesty. >>>>> >>>>> On 2/24/11, Been there, done that wrote: >>>>>> Why question someone's opinion about Dodds? It's not a >>>>>> dream job. Sure...it's >>>>>> a good job, pays well, has lots of benefits but for >>>>>> many people (like me), it's not about the money. It's >>>>>> about quality of life... enjoying where you are (like >>>>>> Dave and D. Thomas). Why should someone stay where they >>>>>> are just because the money is good? You can make GREAT >>>>>> money teaching in Saudi but I sure would never question >>>>>> your motives if you chose not to teach there! It amazes >>>>>> me how so many posters here think a Dodds job is the >>>>>> end all. There are some down sides...if you have kids, >>>>>> unless they go to school on the economy, they will be >>>>>> going to the Dodds schools, which in many cases, are >>>>>> not so disimilar to inner city schools (sorry if I >>>>>> offend anyone here). I had students who actually moved >>>>>> back stateside because the school in which I taught was >>>>>> so bad. Depending on where you are, medical facilities >>>>>> may not be the best--even if they are--you are last in >>>>>> line behind the soldiers. Say goodbye to being with >>>>>> extended family during holidays, graduations, bar >>>>>> mitvahs, etc... What are you going to do if you don't >>>>>> like the school or the community or the base on which >>>>>> you live? You are kind of stuck--especially if you have >>>>>> decided to make Dodds your career! What if learning a >>>>>> new language isn't as easy as you thought? What if your >>>>>> kids hate it and refuse to acclimate? What if you live >>>>>> in a community that does not particularly care for >>>>>> Americans? There are lots of places that don't want the >>>>>> American presence there. Sure, DoDDs pays well...but it >>>>>> is not for everyone. I enjoyed my stint overseas but >>>>>> have no desire to go back to teaching with Dodds--which >>>>>> is why I read this board because I thought it was about >>>>>> teaching in international schools other than Dodds. >>>>>> >>>>>> On 2/24/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>>> Hey, to be fair, David was practically begged for his >>>>>>> opinion/input on DoDDS and purposefully DID NOT lead >>>>>>> with anything negative about DoDDS or post on the DoD >>>>>>> board. I mean come on, it's not like he insulted >>>>>>> someone's religion (or maybe he did). >>>>>>> >>>>>>> Sorry about that Dave. Obviously some people very >>>>>>> strongly about DoDDS being th be all/end all of >>>>>>> possible futures for them and their families. >>>>>>> >>>>>>> On 2/24/11, MSTeacher wrote: >>>>>>>> Makes me wonder why you don't really think it is a >>>>>>>> dream job. You are living overseas where everything >>>>>>>> is paid for and you can travel. You are under the >>>>>>>> umbrella of the Federal Government which to me >>>>>>>> equals awesome benefits and a pension. I would love >>>>>>>> to know how old you are. I am guessing in your >>>>>>>> twenties where you don't really know about life >>>>>>>> yet. Being single means no responsibilities to >>>>>>>> anyone but yourself. For those of us who have >>>>>>>> families, the opportunity to live overseas with all >>>>>>>> of those benefits and open a world up to our >>>>>>>> children about different cultures is a dream come >>>>>>>> true and is definitely like winning the lottery. If >>>>>>>> the way you are describing your typical day is >>>>>>>> true, then I don't see what is so special about >>>>>>>> your qualifications. Do you lead any extra >>>>>>>> curricular groups? Are involved with anything else >>>>>>>> in the school? Have you taken advantage of >>>>>>>> traveling during the holidays? What is so bad about >>>>>>>> living in S. Korea. I know there are many single >>>>>>>> teachers over there and they are enjoying >>>>>>>> themselves immensely. Well, I guess it is good you >>>>>>>> are leaving because it makes room for someone who >>>>>>>> REALLY wants to work for DoDDS. Good luck to you in >>>>>>>> Sweden! >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>> What's the big obsession with being a DoDDS teacher? >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> I teach middle school science. I don't know what >>>>>>>>> will happen to the position. If I had to guess It >>>>>>>>> will probably be offered to a transfer. There are >>>>>>>>> a bunch of people being displaced in Germany who >>>>>>>>> will be shuffled around. I've read tho DOD board >>>>>>>>> on here and no offense I don't have anything >>>>>>>>> constructive to contribute. I haven't enjoyed my >>>>>>>>> year here in S.K., and all the DOD board seems to >>>>>>>>> be about is getting hired. It's not the dream job >>>>>>>>> everyone seems to think it is, and I'd just be a >>>>>>>>> negative source of information. The hiring >>>>>>>>> process for me was pretty unspectacular, the >>>>>>>>> working conditions here are like they are in any >>>>>>>>> school in the U.S. You wake up, you go to work, >>>>>>>>> you teach your classes, you have lunch, you do >>>>>>>>> reports, you plan/grade, go to meetings, and go >>>>>>>>> home. I don't have a whole lot to add beyond >>>>>>>>> that. >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, School Psyc wrote: >>>>>>>>>> If you don't mind my asking, what position do >>>>>>>>>> you currently hold with DoDDS? Is that a >>>>>>>>>> potential vacancy for next year? We have one >>>>>>>>>> poster whose husband is a middle and high >>>>>>>>>> school science/math teacher hoping to be hired >>>>>>>>>> by DoDDS. >>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>> It's a great position to retire from, I >>>>>>>>>>> understand why a lot of people want in. >>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>> How do you like China? >>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>> Wow, David. You are quite the enigma around >>>>>>>>>>>> here. Leaving DoDDS to go into an >>>>>>>>>>>> international teaching position. Many >>>>>>>>>>>> people on this board are still hoping to >>>>>>>>>>>> get in with DoDDS and are considering int'l >>>>>>>>>>>> teaching only as a viable alternative to >>>>>>>>>>>> the lottery like odds of DoDDS employment. >>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>> I'm currently teaching in Beijing and have >>>>>>>>>>>> previously lived and taught in Egpyt and >>>>>>>>>>>> Japan. Our first jobs we got through Search >>>>>>>>>>>> Associates and the next two basically by >>>>>>>>>>>> contacting schools directly. >>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>> We would like to end up in Europe >>>>>>>>>>>> eventually, but are enjoying China and also >>>>>>>>>>>> the chance to pay off bills and save some >>>>>>>>>>>> money. >>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>> Sorry if I seemed defensive, the message >>>>>>>>>>>>> from Sam just came out of nowhere. >>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>> The school is an independent school that >>>>>>>>>>>>> offers the IB program. I will be teaching >>>>>>>>>>>>> MYP 1 science. >>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>> I'm currently teaching at a DoDDS school >>>>>>>>>>>>> in S.K. and really don't want to wait 2 >>>>>>>>>>>>> more years to MAYBE transfer to Europe, >>>>>>>>>>>>> since people are being transfered out of >>>>>>>>>>>>> Germany because several of our schools >>>>>>>>>>>>> are closing there, it's just going to be >>>>>>>>>>>>> harder. It's really not very fun here, a >>>>>>>>>>>>> lot of people have families here, and I'm >>>>>>>>>>>>> a single guy. I care less about the >>>>>>>>>>>>> salary, security, support, and American >>>>>>>>>>>>> comforts, and more about living life. >>>>>>>>>>>>> Personally, some hot blondes would be >>>>>>>>>>>>> nice. DoDDS schools are very >>>>>>>>>>>>> "family" centered. Everyone has >>>>>>>>>>>>> a family here, service personel, faculty, >>>>>>>>>>>>> staff. It's just one big happy family, >>>>>>>>>>>>> and honestly it's like living on Prozac. >>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>> I'd love to be in Italy, how did that >>>>>>>>>>>>> happen? Where are you Tom? >>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, Dave -> David wrote: WOW, >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> David, thats >>>>>>>>>>>>>> pretty remarkable. I don't know what >>>>>>>>>>>>>> your qualifications are (you must be >>>>>>>>>>>>>> pretty highly qualified), but what you >>>>>>>>>>>>>> describe is the "one in a >>>>>>>>>>>>>> million" scenario, you were really >>>>>>>>>>>>>> in the right place at the right time >>>>>>>>>>>>>> with the right skill set. Most people >>>>>>>>>>>>>> shoot for a top tier school (in Sweden >>>>>>>>>>>>>> something like Stockholm International >>>>>>>>>>>>>> School) and basically spend a lot of >>>>>>>>>>>>>> effort, time, and money and never get a >>>>>>>>>>>>>> "dream job", especially >>>>>>>>>>>>>> considering you seem to be getting an >>>>>>>>>>>>>> above average salary. Really, what you >>>>>>>>>>>>>> describe is not very common, and pretty >>>>>>>>>>>>>> unusual. Some people on this forum are >>>>>>>>>>>>>> bound to be a little envious >>>>>>>>>>>>>> (especially with the economic recession >>>>>>>>>>>>>> going on). Really "europe" is >>>>>>>>>>>>>> seldom a first or early posting for >>>>>>>>>>>>>> anyone. Most people start in Asia or >>>>>>>>>>>>>> the Middle East and work their way >>>>>>>>>>>>>> towards western europe or one of the 3 >>>>>>>>>>>>>> "little tigers" (Japan, Hong >>>>>>>>>>>>>> Kong, Singapore) in Asia. >>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>> Education has recruiters or "head >>>>>>>>>>>>>> hunters" just like any other >>>>>>>>>>>>>> profession, when they use the term >>>>>>>>>>>>>> recruiter or recruiting agency they >>>>>>>>>>>>>> usually mean Search Associates (SA), or >>>>>>>>>>>>>> International School Services (ISS) as >>>>>>>>>>>>>> an example. These companies charge >>>>>>>>>>>>>> teachers a fee to access their job >>>>>>>>>>>>>> database, and to attend their hiring >>>>>>>>>>>>>> fairs. There's nothing wrong with Daves >>>>>>>>>>>>>> ESL cafe (or any of the free services), >>>>>>>>>>>>>> its just very unusual for that caliber >>>>>>>>>>>>>> of a position to be advertised there. >>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>> If you don't mind answering, are you >>>>>>>>>>>>>> teaching ESL, or another subject? Is >>>>>>>>>>>>>> the school an international school >>>>>>>>>>>>>> (private), public school, or >>>>>>>>>>>>>> independent school? What grade/age >>>>>>>>>>>>>> level? I'm sure people are curious. >>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>> I'm in Italy actually, and have been to >>>>>>>>>>>>>> Sweden although it was very briefly. >>>>>>>>>>>>>> It's cold almost year round. If your >>>>>>>>>>>>>> into the blonde beauty type its the >>>>>>>>>>>>>> place to be. The food can be >>>>>>>>>>>>>> "heavy" and a bit on the >>>>>>>>>>>>>> bland side. If your a drinker you will >>>>>>>>>>>>>> fit in very well. As far as >>>>>>>>>>>>>> history/touristy things to do its not >>>>>>>>>>>>>> Paris or Rome (I'm referring to >>>>>>>>>>>>>> Stockholm). The corporate HQ for Ikea >>>>>>>>>>>>>> is in Sweden. >>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> What do you mean a recruiting agency, >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> like a job fair recruiter? The >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> position was posted on Daves ESL cafe >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> just after new years in January and I >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> just sent them my resume and a cover >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> letter by email. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/22/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> We talk a lot on here about the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> best way to find, apply and land >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> overseas jobs. I think Sam was >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> asking how did you find out about >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> the position? Did you apply >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> directly to the school or use a >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> recruiting agency etc? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/22/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> I don't understand what you mean? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> I applied, interviewed, and the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> principal offered me the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> position. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/22/11, sam wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> how did you get the position? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/22/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Hi I don't know if this is >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> the right place or not. I was >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> just offered a position in >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Sweden, and wanted some >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> information on salary on cost >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> of living. I'm being offered >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> a salary of 28,000 Kroner a >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> month, plus relocation >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> expenses (flight so far, and >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> am negotiating one month >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> salary up front), and the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> state health insurance. I've >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> read that it can be very >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> expensive to live in Sweden? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Does anyone know how this >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> salary would compare against >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> living in the economy? Is it >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> below, above, or right at >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> average? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Thanks a bunch for any help.

Feb 25, 2011

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School Psyc I don't think we will be losing school psyc positions and if we do, one will be moving out of the area. I wouldn't expect us to lose more than one position, but you never know.

On 2/25/11, Dave -> School Psyc wrote: > Ah, so you are Mary's alter ego???, LOL it's good to hear from you. Yes May > is coming around time to confirm my ...See MoreI don't think we will be losing school psyc positions and if we do, one will be moving out of the area. I wouldn't expect us to lose more than one position, but you never know.

On 2/25/11, Dave -> School Psyc wrote: > Ah, so you are Mary's alter ego???, LOL it's good to hear from you. Yes May > is coming around time to confirm my application with DODEA again. > > How are the economic forces in your state and district going??? I keep > hearing on BBC about the Madison teachers in Wisconsin, and how all the > public schools are broke. > > > On 2/25/11, School Psyc wrote: >> Yes, I am Mary, not her headhunter. >> >> >> On 2/25/11, Dave -> Everyone wrote: >>> Does DODEA take over everything??? I'm busy for one week and this is >>> what happens. >>> >>> Dave: (Can i call you Paul?), LOL. I hear where you are coming from. >>> I'm single too (well not married no kids, etc) and I know where your >>> coming from when you find yourself at a school thats all couples and >>> families. I have to say though based on your work description, the >>> issue isnt really DoDDS because every teaching job is pretty much as >>> you describe. My job in Italy if i wanted to reduce it to bullit >>> points would sound the same. The problem for you is when all those >>> family people head home thats where they want to be. You on the other >>> hand I'm guessing are somewhere in your 20's and you get back to you >>> apartment and think do I get on my computer or watch a DVD, and what >>> you really want to be doing is heading out to the night life, and quit >>> honestly are thinking about getting laid? You might feel your living >>> in a senior citizens home, and being a military base where men already >>> out number woman 20:1 your feeling a little deprived. I'm guessing in >>> South Korea, that your not in Seoul, because if you were you wouldn't >>> be "bored". So while your DoDDS job probabley isnt bad, as a realtor >>> will tell you the three most important things are "location, location, >>> location". My advice is really simple, in your search stick to major >>> metro/cosmo cities. In Sweden your talking Stockholm, in Japan Tokyo, >>> in China Beijing, Shanghai, Goungzhou, Hong Kong, in the U.K. thats >>> London, in France stick with Paris, in Italy Rome's the place to be. >>> Lastly, everyone has their deal breakers, and they vary a lot. let me >>> ask you IF you had your job somewhere you wanted to be, would you >>> still want to leave? >>> >>> To MS Teacher: I dont think the solution to his problem is to do more >>> work in the form of extra curriculars. I'm sorry things are bad back >>> in the states I have a lot of friends that are scared out of their >>> mind and I get an email every week if I know about any positions. I >>> hope you find your eden. >>> >>> Thomas: Dont confuse me with David, no serious if this forum ever gets >>> a moderator I'm voting for you, your just so agreeable. How are things >>> going? I had to interview a perspective teacher here, and my kids are >>> going nuts over their IB exams coming up. pretty much my week. >>> >>> School Psyc: Are you Mary's headhunter nowand when did you change your >>> name on here? How are things going? >>> >>> >>> On 2/24/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>> And there is nothing wrong with having that perspective and that >>>> dream. My wife and I are both teachers and our son has Autism. So >>>> DoDDS sounded like a way for us to work overseas and still have a >>>> good educational situation for our son. Fortunately, we were able >>>> to have all of that without DoDDS, although I would never rule it >>>> out for the future. >>>> >>>> On 2/24/11, MSTeacher wrote: >>>>> I never said it was the money. For us, it is about the quality >>>>> of life. The opportunity what we could give to our children that >>>>> they would not have stateside. Do you know how difficult things >>>>> are right now on this side of the world? In Detroit, they are >>>>> looking at closing 70 schools and classroom sizes are going to go >>>>> up to 60 kids. The state of RI, are looking at cutting 2000 >>>>> teaching jobs. Mayor Bloomberg of NYC is looking at cutting >>>>> another 6,000 jobs. Did you know that 400,000 teachers lost >>>>> their jobs nationwide last year. I don't see it getting any >>>>> better. So for my family, DoDDS would be the dream job. >>>>> >>>>> >>>>> On 2/24/11, School Psyc wrote: >>>>>> David, thank you for your post. I appreciate your >>>>>> honesty. >>>>>> >>>>>> On 2/24/11, Been there, done that wrote: >>>>>>> Why question someone's opinion about Dodds? It's not a >>>>>>> dream job. Sure...it's >>>>>>> a good job, pays well, has lots of benefits but for >>>>>>> many people (like me), it's not about the money. It's >>>>>>> about quality of life... enjoying where you are (like >>>>>>> Dave and D. Thomas). Why should someone stay where they >>>>>>> are just because the money is good? You can make GREAT >>>>>>> money teaching in Saudi but I sure would never question >>>>>>> your motives if you chose not to teach there! It amazes >>>>>>> me how so many posters here think a Dodds job is the >>>>>>> end all. There are some down sides...if you have kids, >>>>>>> unless they go to school on the economy, they will be >>>>>>> going to the Dodds schools, which in many cases, are >>>>>>> not so disimilar to inner city schools (sorry if I >>>>>>> offend anyone here). I had students who actually moved >>>>>>> back stateside because the school in which I taught was >>>>>>> so bad. Depending on where you are, medical facilities >>>>>>> may not be the best--even if they are--you are last in >>>>>>> line behind the soldiers. Say goodbye to being with >>>>>>> extended family during holidays, graduations, bar >>>>>>> mitvahs, etc... What are you going to do if you don't >>>>>>> like the school or the community or the base on which >>>>>>> you live? You are kind of stuck--especially if you have >>>>>>> decided to make Dodds your career! What if learning a >>>>>>> new language isn't as easy as you thought? What if your >>>>>>> kids hate it and refuse to acclimate? What if you live >>>>>>> in a community that does not particularly care for >>>>>>> Americans? There are lots of places that don't want the >>>>>>> American presence there. Sure, DoDDs pays well...but it >>>>>>> is not for everyone. I enjoyed my stint overseas but >>>>>>> have no desire to go back to teaching with Dodds--which >>>>>>> is why I read this board because I thought it was about >>>>>>> teaching in international schools other than Dodds. >>>>>>> >>>>>>> On 2/24/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>>>> Hey, to be fair, David was practically begged for his >>>>>>>> opinion/input on DoDDS and purposefully DID NOT lead >>>>>>>> with anything negative about DoDDS or post on the DoD >>>>>>>> board. I mean come on, it's not like he insulted >>>>>>>> someone's religion (or maybe he did). >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> Sorry about that Dave. Obviously some people very >>>>>>>> strongly about DoDDS being th be all/end all of >>>>>>>> possible futures for them and their families. >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> On 2/24/11, MSTeacher wrote: >>>>>>>>> Makes me wonder why you don't really think it is a >>>>>>>>> dream job. You are living overseas where everything >>>>>>>>> is paid for and you can travel. You are under the >>>>>>>>> umbrella of the Federal Government which to me >>>>>>>>> equals awesome benefits and a pension. I would love >>>>>>>>> to know how old you are. I am guessing in your >>>>>>>>> twenties where you don't really know about life >>>>>>>>> yet. Being single means no responsibilities to >>>>>>>>> anyone but yourself. For those of us who have >>>>>>>>> families, the opportunity to live overseas with all >>>>>>>>> of those benefits and open a world up to our >>>>>>>>> children about different cultures is a dream come >>>>>>>>> true and is definitely like winning the lottery. If >>>>>>>>> the way you are describing your typical day is >>>>>>>>> true, then I don't see what is so special about >>>>>>>>> your qualifications. Do you lead any extra >>>>>>>>> curricular groups? Are involved with anything else >>>>>>>>> in the school? Have you taken advantage of >>>>>>>>> traveling during the holidays? What is so bad about >>>>>>>>> living in S. Korea. I know there are many single >>>>>>>>> teachers over there and they are enjoying >>>>>>>>> themselves immensely. Well, I guess it is good you >>>>>>>>> are leaving because it makes room for someone who >>>>>>>>> REALLY wants to work for DoDDS. Good luck to you in >>>>>>>>> Sweden! >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>> What's the big obsession with being a DoDDS teacher? >>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>> I teach middle school science. I don't know what >>>>>>>>>> will happen to the position. If I had to guess It >>>>>>>>>> will probably be offered to a transfer. There are >>>>>>>>>> a bunch of people being displaced in Germany who >>>>>>>>>> will be shuffled around. I've read tho DOD board >>>>>>>>>> on here and no offense I don't have anything >>>>>>>>>> constructive to contribute. I haven't enjoyed my >>>>>>>>>> year here in S.K., and all the DOD board seems to >>>>>>>>>> be about is getting hired. It's not the dream job >>>>>>>>>> everyone seems to think it is, and I'd just be a >>>>>>>>>> negative source of information. The hiring >>>>>>>>>> process for me was pretty unspectacular, the >>>>>>>>>> working conditions here are like they are in any >>>>>>>>>> school in the U.S. You wake up, you go to work, >>>>>>>>>> you teach your classes, you have lunch, you do >>>>>>>>>> reports, you plan/grade, go to meetings, and go >>>>>>>>>> home. I don't have a whole lot to add beyond >>>>>>>>>> that. >>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, School Psyc wrote: >>>>>>>>>>> If you don't mind my asking, what position do >>>>>>>>>>> you currently hold with DoDDS? Is that a >>>>>>>>>>> potential vacancy for next year? We have one >>>>>>>>>>> poster whose husband is a middle and high >>>>>>>>>>> school science/math teacher hoping to be hired >>>>>>>>>>> by DoDDS. >>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>> It's a great position to retire from, I >>>>>>>>>>>> understand why a lot of people want in. >>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>> How do you like China? >>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>> Wow, David. You are quite the enigma around >>>>>>>>>>>>> here. Leaving DoDDS to go into an >>>>>>>>>>>>> international teaching position. Many >>>>>>>>>>>>> people on this board are still hoping to >>>>>>>>>>>>> get in with DoDDS and are considering int'l >>>>>>>>>>>>> teaching only as a viable alternative to >>>>>>>>>>>>> the lottery like odds of DoDDS employment. >>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>> I'm currently teaching in Beijing and have >>>>>>>>>>>>> previously lived and taught in Egpyt and >>>>>>>>>>>>> Japan. Our first jobs we got through Search >>>>>>>>>>>>> Associates and the next two basically by >>>>>>>>>>>>> contacting schools directly. >>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>> We would like to end up in Europe >>>>>>>>>>>>> eventually, but are enjoying China and also >>>>>>>>>>>>> the chance to pay off bills and save some >>>>>>>>>>>>> money. >>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>> Sorry if I seemed defensive, the message >>>>>>>>>>>>>> from Sam just came out of nowhere. >>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>> The school is an independent school that >>>>>>>>>>>>>> offers the IB program. I will be teaching >>>>>>>>>>>>>> MYP 1 science. >>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>> I'm currently teaching at a DoDDS school >>>>>>>>>>>>>> in S.K. and really don't want to wait 2 >>>>>>>>>>>>>> more years to MAYBE transfer to Europe, >>>>>>>>>>>>>> since people are being transfered out of >>>>>>>>>>>>>> Germany because several of our schools >>>>>>>>>>>>>> are closing there, it's just going to be >>>>>>>>>>>>>> harder. It's really not very fun here, a >>>>>>>>>>>>>> lot of people have families here, and I'm >>>>>>>>>>>>>> a single guy. I care less about the >>>>>>>>>>>>>> salary, security, support, and American >>>>>>>>>>>>>> comforts, and more about living life. >>>>>>>>>>>>>> Personally, some hot blondes would be >>>>>>>>>>>>>> nice. DoDDS schools are very >>>>>>>>>>>>>> "family" centered. Everyone has >>>>>>>>>>>>>> a family here, service personel, faculty, >>>>>>>>>>>>>> staff. It's just one big happy family, >>>>>>>>>>>>>> and honestly it's like living on Prozac. >>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>> I'd love to be in Italy, how did that >>>>>>>>>>>>>> happen? Where are you Tom? >>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, Dave -> David wrote: WOW, >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> David, thats >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> pretty remarkable. I don't know what >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> your qualifications are (you must be >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> pretty highly qualified), but what you >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> describe is the "one in a >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> million" scenario, you were really >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> in the right place at the right time >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> with the right skill set. Most people >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> shoot for a top tier school (in Sweden >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> something like Stockholm International >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> School) and basically spend a lot of >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> effort, time, and money and never get a >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> "dream job", especially >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> considering you seem to be getting an >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> above average salary. Really, what you >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> describe is not very common, and pretty >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> unusual. Some people on this forum are >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> bound to be a little envious >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (especially with the economic recession >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> going on). Really "europe" is >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> seldom a first or early posting for >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> anyone. Most people start in Asia or >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> the Middle East and work their way >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> towards western europe or one of the 3 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> "little tigers" (Japan, Hong >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Kong, Singapore) in Asia. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Education has recruiters or "head >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> hunters" just like any other >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> profession, when they use the term >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> recruiter or recruiting agency they >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> usually mean Search Associates (SA), or >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> International School Services (ISS) as >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> an example. These companies charge >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> teachers a fee to access their job >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> database, and to attend their hiring >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> fairs. There's nothing wrong with Daves >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> ESL cafe (or any of the free services), >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> its just very unusual for that caliber >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> of a position to be advertised there. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> If you don't mind answering, are you >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> teaching ESL, or another subject? Is >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> the school an international school >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (private), public school, or >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> independent school? What grade/age >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> level? I'm sure people are curious. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> I'm in Italy actually, and have been to >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Sweden although it was very briefly. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> It's cold almost year round. If your >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> into the blonde beauty type its the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> place to be. The food can be >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> "heavy" and a bit on the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> bland side. If your a drinker you will >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> fit in very well. As far as >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> history/touristy things to do its not >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Paris or Rome (I'm referring to >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Stockholm). The corporate HQ for Ikea >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> is in Sweden. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> What do you mean a recruiting agency, >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> like a job fair recruiter? The >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> position was posted on Daves ESL cafe >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> just after new years in January and I >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> just sent them my resume and a cover >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> letter by email. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/22/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> We talk a lot on here about the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> best way to find, apply and land >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> overseas jobs. I think Sam was >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> asking how did you find out about >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> the position? Did you apply >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> directly to the school or use a >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> recruiting agency etc? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/22/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> I don't understand what you mean? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> I applied, interviewed, and the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> principal offered me the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> position. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/22/11, sam wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> how did you get the position? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/22/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Hi I don't know if this is >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> the right place or not. I was >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> just offered a position in >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Sweden, and wanted some >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> information on salary on cost >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> of living. I'm being offered >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> a salary of 28,000 Kroner a >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> month, plus relocation >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> expenses (flight so far, and >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> am negotiating one month >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> salary up front), and the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> state health insurance. I've >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> read that it can be very >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> expensive to live in Sweden? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Does anyone know how this >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> salary would compare against >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> living in the economy? Is it >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> below, above, or right at >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> average? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Thanks a bunch for any help.

Feb 25, 2011

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Sweden

by David

Feb 27, 2011

Thank you very much to the people that helped. I really didn't want to get into an argument about DoDDS.

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Dave So..So off topic.

On 3/01/11, KelBel wrote: > Um...where's the address for that board? Things here have been a bit > on the dull side. I'm assuming that the Swedes have a male team, too, > right? More than likely they would be wearing Speedos - uh...never > mind. > > > On 2/28/11, Dave -> Thomas wrote: >> Ser...See More

Mar 1, 2011

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D.Thomas They do have a male team and they do wear speedos, but I think they also prefer suntan lotion boys, as opposed to suntan lotion girls (not that there is anything wrong with that) and that is definitely a story for another board.

On 3/01/11, KelBel wrote: > Um...where's the address for that board? Things here have been a bit > on the ...See More

Mar 3, 2011

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Wow! So Nice and Peaceful Around Here

by D. Thomas

Mar 6, 2011

Ah. Nice and peaceful. A little quiet, but not such a bad thing right now.

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Dave -> KelBel You will be bopping around yourself. Glad you got a position in Asia, your really going to like it.

Honestly, I dont think Thomas should be in politics, I'd hate it to ruin him :)

On 3/07/11, KelBel wrote: > To Debbie - I was saddened to switch over from the DoD > group to this international group only to learn that you &g...See MoreYou will be bopping around yourself. Glad you got a position in Asia, your really going to like it.

Honestly, I dont think Thomas should be in politics, I'd hate it to ruin him :)

On 3/07/11, KelBel wrote: > To Debbie - I was saddened to switch over from the DoD > group to this international group only to learn that you > still had the need to get in the last word. This side of > you is NOT your most flattering. Generally, you have been > very optimistic but this recent rant speaks volumes about > your true personality. In the future it would suit you > better to simply leave the conversation instead of holding > the club that beats the dead horse. Having the last word > really does not mean that you "win". Instead it portrays > you as spiteful and negative - all the things that you > feel you are not. Obviously, I don't know you...I'm just > shedding light from the perspective of an observer. > > > To Dave - Like everything in life, I take from it what I > can learn and grow from and I disregard the rest. I have > enjoyed your posts. If for no other reason, they keep me > entertained. You also helped me gain some courage on the > international scene. Your bopping around from country to > country inspires me. > > To D. Thomas - I really think that you should be in > politics. No matter what the issue, you have a way of > always presenting yourself so diplomatically. I want to > be like you when I grow up. For the sake of others, I > want to formally and publicly thank D. for his continued > support and valuable knowledge regarding the international > teaching scene. I'm thrilled to be moving to Asia in > August - thanks in great part to him. Thank you, thank > you, thank you. > > > On 3/07/11, Debbie---->D.Thomas wrote: >> Thank you. I appreciate that. Others jumped down my >> throat as well even after >> I said it was time to move on. I said what I felt I >> needed to say. If you noticed, I have not said too much >> in a while. I have just been reading the postings. Oh >> well, c'est la vie! Some people have nothing better to >> do than be concerned about where I will be in 2025. I >> guess I am just that important to them. LOL!!! >> >> >> On 3/07/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>> I apologize if I attributed that to you. After you >>> called Dave out personally, others certainly did jump >>> on the band wagon and call for him to leave (and you >>> didn't jump to defend his right to be there). >>> >>> I would never question your right to post anywhere >>> you want to and have defended you in the past (the >>> infamous Debbie 2025 anon poster). I was just trying >>> to point out to the cowardly anon that what they were >>> saying was unfair and illogical. I will try and >>> refrain from using you to make my point. >>> >>>> On 3/07/11, Debbie---->D.Thomas wrote: Hey: >>>> >>>> I don't believe I was targeting you, was I? I did >>>> not ask Dave to leave the board. I have every right >>>> to be on the DoDDS board as anyone else since I am >>>> getting information for my family. I appreciate the >>>> fact that you hope that my husband does get the job >>>> with DoDDS. At this point it does not matter. We >>>> are not just sitting here twiddling our thumbs >>>> waiting for it happen. We are making our own >>>> futures. We are working hard to get to where we >>>> need and want to be. It would be a nice dream come >>>> true and like you have said "like winning the >>>> lottery". >>>> >>>> >>>> On 3/07/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>> Really? Dave is a bully Dave called people out by >>>>> name and asked them to leave the board? So people >>>>> who are/were actual DoDDS candidates shouldn't >>>>> post on the DoDDS board, but spouses of those >>>>> people who are not canidates nor teachers are >>>>> just fine there? Interesting take on >>>>> reality/fairness you have going on there. >>>>> >>>>> On 3/07/11, Why are you being such a bully? wrote: >>>>>> Dave it is totally uncool and unprofessional to >>>>>> talk about someone like this on a forum. You >>>>>> are being a bully and it is ridiculous. Why are >>>>>> you so obsessed with the DOD board when you are >>>>>> not even a DOD teacher? The DOD teachers have >>>>>> asked you to stop posting incorrect info but >>>>>> you haven't seem to have gotten the message. >>>>>> Please stop bullying and stick to this forum >>>>>> where you have experience. >>>>>> >>>>>> >>>>>> On 3/07/11, Dave wrote: >>>>>>> Yeah the DOD room has been a little >>>>>>> stressful. I think Debbie is experiencing >>>>>>> reality creep. DODEA isnt having ANY job >>>>>>> fair, their will be very little hiring after >>>>>>> the excessed teachers are absorbed, and she >>>>>>> wants to pretend that everything is going to >>>>>>> be ok and her husband will get a job with >>>>>>> DOD. >>>>>>> >>>>>>> On 3/06/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>>>> Ah. Nice and peaceful. A little quiet, but >>>>>>>> not such a bad thing right now.

Mar 8, 2011

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Debbie---->Kelbel Hi:

Well, I have been on this site for months so I did not just switch over. We had thought about taking the international route, but plans may be changing again as hubby is thinking about finishing off his masters degree. You are correct. When I get upset I have a thing about getting the last word. It is not my most flattering part of my ...See MoreHi:

Well, I have been on this site for months so I did not just switch over. We had thought about taking the international route, but plans may be changing again as hubby is thinking about finishing off his masters degree. You are correct. When I get upset I have a thing about getting the last word. It is not my most flattering part of my personality. I don't think Dave is a bad guy. I just think that there are some things that should not be posted. I generally have been very optimistic, but I lost it and it does happen. I think everyone is entitled to lose it once in a while. I am not a spiteful person and I am not a negative person. I was just upset. I am the kind of person that when I am your friend, I am your friend for life. I will give the shirt off of my back. I am a very compassionate person. Sorry you had to see my "bad" side. Congratulations on getting a job in Asia. Where are you going? China, Japan...?

On 3/07/11, KelBel wrote: > To Debbie - I was saddened to switch over from the DoD > group to this international group only to learn that you > still had the need to get in the last word. This side of > you is NOT your most flattering. Generally, you have been > very optimistic but this recent rant speaks volumes about > your true personality. In the future it would suit you > better to simply leave the conversation instead of holding > the club that beats the dead horse. Having the last word > really does not mean that you "win". Instead it portrays > you as spiteful and negative - all the things that you > feel you are not. Obviously, I don't know you...I'm just > shedding light from the perspective of an observer. > > > To Dave - Like everything in life, I take from it what I > can learn and grow from and I disregard the rest. I have > enjoyed your posts. If for no other reason, they keep me > entertained. You also helped me gain some courage on the > international scene. Your bopping around from country to > country inspires me. > > To D. Thomas - I really think that you should be in > politics. No matter what the issue, you have a way of > always presenting yourself so diplomatically. I want to > be like you when I grow up. For the sake of others, I > want to formally and publicly thank D. for his continued > support and valuable knowledge regarding the international > teaching scene. I'm thrilled to be moving to Asia in > August - thanks in great part to him. Thank you, thank > you, thank you. > > > On 3/07/11, Debbie---->D.Thomas wrote: >> Thank you. I appreciate that. Others jumped down my >> throat as well even after >> I said it was time to move on. I said what I felt I >> needed to say. If you noticed, I have not said too much >> in a while. I have just been reading the postings. Oh >> well, c'est la vie! Some people have nothing better to >> do than be concerned about where I will be in 2025. I >> guess I am just that important to them. LOL!!! >> >> >> On 3/07/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>> I apologize if I attributed that to you. After you >>> called Dave out personally, others certainly did jump >>> on the band wagon and call for him to leave (and you >>> didn't jump to defend his right to be there). >>> >>> I would never question your right to post anywhere >>> you want to and have defended you in the past (the >>> infamous Debbie 2025 anon poster). I was just trying >>> to point out to the cowardly anon that what they were >>> saying was unfair and illogical. I will try and >>> refrain from using you to make my point. >>> >>>> On 3/07/11, Debbie---->D.Thomas wrote: Hey: >>>> >>>> I don't believe I was targeting you, was I? I did >>>> not ask Dave to leave the board. I have every right >>>> to be on the DoDDS board as anyone else since I am >>>> getting information for my family. I appreciate the >>>> fact that you hope that my husband does get the job >>>> with DoDDS. At this point it does not matter. We >>>> are not just sitting here twiddling our thumbs >>>> waiting for it happen. We are making our own >>>> futures. We are working hard to get to where we >>>> need and want to be. It would be a nice dream come >>>> true and like you have said "like winning the >>>> lottery". >>>> >>>> >>>> On 3/07/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>> Really? Dave is a bully Dave called people out by >>>>> name and asked them to leave the board? So people >>>>> who are/were actual DoDDS candidates shouldn't >>>>> post on the DoDDS board, but spouses of those >>>>> people who are not canidates nor teachers are >>>>> just fine there? Interesting take on >>>>> reality/fairness you have going on there. >>>>> >>>>> On 3/07/11, Why are you being such a bully? wrote: >>>>>> Dave it is totally uncool and unprofessional to >>>>>> talk about someone like this on a forum. You >>>>>> are being a bully and it is ridiculous. Why are >>>>>> you so obsessed with the DOD board when you are >>>>>> not even a DOD teacher? The DOD teachers have >>>>>> asked you to stop posting incorrect info but >>>>>> you haven't seem to have gotten the message. >>>>>> Please stop bullying and stick to this forum >>>>>> where you have experience. >>>>>> >>>>>> >>>>>> On 3/07/11, Dave wrote: >>>>>>> Yeah the DOD room has been a little >>>>>>> stressful. I think Debbie is experiencing >>>>>>> reality creep. DODEA isnt having ANY job >>>>>>> fair, their will be very little hiring after >>>>>>> the excessed teachers are absorbed, and she >>>>>>> wants to pretend that everything is going to >>>>>>> be ok and her husband will get a job with >>>>>>> DOD. >>>>>>> >>>>>>> On 3/06/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>>>> Ah. Nice and peaceful. A little quiet, but >>>>>>>> not such a bad thing right now.

Mar 8, 2011

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To Dave and D. Thomas

by The Correction Officer

Mar 7, 2011

Have either of you two well traveled gentlemen ever been to Turkey? My husband and I are planning a trip to Europe this summer and we will be in Germany the first week. My husband really wants to go to Istanbul but I would prefer Italy. We have been to Italy before but I know nothing about Turkey and would like some other opinions besides what I gl...See More

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Dave -> Correction Officer I cant say I've been to turkey, I had a friend I worked with who was Turkish. Constantly talked about his home (none of it was positive). I get really low job offers all the time to teach, and admin there. Honestly, I can't say much more then that. It's never been on my list of "Places I'd like to go".

On 3/07/11, The Correction Officer w...See More

Mar 7, 2011

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D. Thomas I have not yet had the pleasure of visiting Turkey. We have considered taking jobs there in the past and ended up in Egypt instead) and are coincidently considering Turkey (or Italy) for our vacation this Summer. Friends have lived there in the past and have said it was fascinating and the people generally very friendly. Istanbul and the many well-...See More

Mar 7, 2011

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Dipont???

by Dave -> Thomas

Mar 9, 2011

Hey Thomas do you have any info on Dipont education ([link removed].

D. Thomas Not personally. The schools have gotten mixed to bad reviews on ISR. Sounds like they could use some good consulting!

On 3/09/11, Dave -> Thomas wrote: > Hey Thomas do you have any info on Dipont education > ([link removed].

Mar 9, 2011

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Dave Thanks I was hoping you had some first hand info.

On 3/09/11, D. Thomas wrote: > Not personally. The schools have gotten mixed to bad reviews > on ISR. Sounds like they could use some good consulting! > > On 3/09/11, Dave -> Thomas wrote: >> Hey Thomas do you have any info on Dipont education >> ([link removed].

Mar 9, 2011

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Counseling Position

by Dave -> Mary

Mar 10, 2011

Hi Mary a Counselor position became available at Dulwich College in Beijing

It's more of a guidance counselor position "One counsellor required to act as an assistant in college counselling for a student body of about 100 graduates each year. Approximately 60% of students apply to the US. Administratvie support will be available, as well ...See More

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School Psyc Unfortunately, they want somoen who has had experience with college counseling. I have registered for counseling classes to become dual certified, but haven't had the classes or experience yet.

Assessments I could do, depending on the local regulations.

On 3/10/11, D. Thomas wrote: > And if you got bored, I'd throw some assessm...See More

Mar 11, 2011

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Dave LOL, uhm they are a "british" school I dont think an "american" counseling certificate would make much difference, and in China there really isnt any regulation regarding "assessment". Its more about having the interview skills to find out where the students want to go. The ones with direction dont really need any help, it's the ones with the "what...See More

Mar 11, 2011

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Dept Head Position

by Dave -> Thomas

Mar 10, 2011

English Foundation School in Hong Kong is looking for a Special Education Department Head.

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D. Thomas Yeah, I can see all of that. A package that equates to only a decent lifestyle in Seoul/Beijing is not going to be as attractive as a package that allows you to live a decent lifestyle in Rome/Paris. Rome/Paris will automatically get bonus points in most people's mental accounting that have nothing to do with money, benefits etc. I'm sure we will b...See MoreYeah, I can see all of that. A package that equates to only a decent lifestyle in Seoul/Beijing is not going to be as attractive as a package that allows you to live a decent lifestyle in Rome/Paris. Rome/Paris will automatically get bonus points in most people's mental accounting that have nothing to do with money, benefits etc. I'm sure we will be going through similar debates down the road when we have a nice cushion built up and will probably be looking for a change from Asia.

Didn't you go through a similar type of mental accounting when you were deciding on Rome? Has the "it's Rome" factor run it's course, or is it that "it's Paris" has an even greater intrinsic appeal? Would it really be a hardship to stay in Rome another year, or are you worried that the opportunity may not be there next year?

Has On 3/12/11, Dave wrote: > Yeah they would I can imagine, but the school in Paris knows I'm under > contract until next year and they are still proceeding so I have to assume > its not an issue for them (sometimes sisters don't get along, you know how > girls can fight). > > Here's my issue, in the great formula of deciding to accept a position there > are many factors and not all those factors are equal some are "weighted" > heavier then others. My concern is that I'm giving too much weight to the > "It's Paris" category. So much so that it is eclipsing all the other > factors. I don't want Paris to be the same issue I had with Rome, where I > really was scraping by for many months (and even now I don't have a lot of > savings). Basically, I'm having a hard time putting tangible value on > something as abstract as "but I'm living in Paris". I know what your going > to say "well whats that worth to you", the issue is that there are so many > smaller abstract factors that contribute to this composite abstract factor, > that individually even in pieces it's hard to put a value on them, how can I > come up with an aggregate value. For instance being able to drink wine on > the sidewalk at a paris cafe overlooking the tower, how much/what is that > worth? > > See the money/cost of living is easy, its a very concrete number. Sure > different lifestyle choices can shift it up and done but its still a very > easy concept to quantify. On the other hand I have all these abstract > factors that I've ust dumped into "its Paris" pile that I cant begin to put > a number too. > > On 3/12/11, D. Thomas wrote: >> I wouldn't break contract here as I really have a lot invested in the >> success of our program. I also don't want to be even tempted, so that's >> why we won't apply until we are in a position to commit. >> >> Wouldn't the sister school have a problem with you jumping to the other >> sister (if you were to give into the temptation)? >> >> really want to be tempted. So that's why I don't really wantOn 3/12/11, >> Dave wrote: >>> Two salaries are better then one. Okay, so hypothetically would you >>> break the contract if EFS offered BOTH of you positions? >>> >>> I'm asking because my contract in Italy is for another year but our >>> sister school in Paris (France) has started to discuss a compensation >>> package and I'm very tempted. >>> >>> On 3/12/11, D, Thomas wrote: >>>> We're under contract through the 2011-2012 school year. We are >>>> actually leaning towards staying another year after that since all >>>> of our bills/moving etc will be paid off/caught up and we could >>>> really build up a nice nest egg. And their package is good but not >>>> great compared to our current gigs if only one of us is teaching >>>> fulltime. So, who knows, not for the fall, but maybe we will check >>>> it out for the following year. >>>> >>>> On 3/12/11, Dave wrote: >>>>> Ok fair enough, so its still early for 2011-2012, why not apply >>>>> with them now for next year? If they are the type of school, >>>>> location, position you want to be at why not now? >>>>> >>>>> On 3/12/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>> I was actually leaning towards taking the bird in the >>>>>> hand, but my wife had serious reservations and I really >>>>>> couldn't address them all. It was also our first >>>>>> experience with DoDDS and we did get one interview for >>>>>> Yokota while we were still in Japan, so it was a bit >>>>>> deceiving. And in the end, the two years in NY were good >>>>>> for me professionally and led to our great positions here, >>>>>> so it wasn't a disastrous decision. And hopefully not my >>>>>> last chance with them. >>>>>> >>>>>> >>>>>> On 3/12/11, Dave wrote: >>>>>>> *Sigh* I understand, context within the time frame >>>>>>> makes all the difference. >>>>>>> Hindsight being 20/20 and all. You really were one of >>>>>>> those "fingers crossed" DoDDS people??? >>>>>>> >>>>>>> >>>>>>> On 3/11/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>>>> Well, ironically, we were still in Japan the first >>>>>>>> time I applied to ESF. I was offered a position but >>>>>>>> my wife wasn't. We were nervous about supporting a >>>>>>>> family on one salary and weren't certain about the >>>>>>>> arrangements for my son. Also, in the ironic to >>>>>>>> pathetic category, we were still hopeful DoDDS or >>>>>>>> something else would come along (this was in February >>>>>>>> of that year). It didn't and we ended up back in the >>>>>>>> states for 2 years. This past time I had already >>>>>>>> accepted my current position and was really excited >>>>>>>> about the growth potential for the school and >>>>>>>> position. ESF would be great (I think) but it's a >>>>>>>> very established organization and the opportunities >>>>>>>> for SPED students in HK are plentiful and well >>>>>>>> established (compared to most of the rest of the >>>>>>>> world). So although you would be making a difference >>>>>>>> within that school and for those/students and their >>>>>>>> families, it's here in Beijing that we're really >>>>>>>> pioneering and trying to stretch the opportunties >>>>>>>> available. >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> On 3/11/11, Dave wrote: >>>>>>>>> Well maybe this is a nod from the karma gods >>>>>>>>> aligning your stars, its a sign thomas, a sign.... >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> Now im curious why did you decline a position with >>>>>>>>> them? I mean I know the school your at isnt a chump >>>>>>>>> school or anything but ESF is one of those schools >>>>>>>>> you can end your career at you know? Its the >>>>>>>>> equivilent of a DoDDS position in the international >>>>>>>>> school community, and its even in a prime location >>>>>>>>> for asia (its usually a toss up between hk and >>>>>>>>> singapore for 1st place with Tokyo a solid second) >>>>>>>>> and as the department head youd be in a position to >>>>>>>>> shape the field in a region that sorely needs it??? >>>>>>>>> Don't you want to make a difference, and i mean >>>>>>>>> making a difference in the "big picture" >>>>>>>>> type of way, champion the cause, fight the good >>>>>>>>> fight??? >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> Im not saying I'd leave europe for HK, but for the >>>>>>>>> right school/position I could be persuaded... If >>>>>>>>> ESF offered me an IB cord. position or head in >>>>>>>>> science and i could bring Amellia, and the >>>>>>>>> compensation was right (and looks like it would be) >>>>>>>>> I'd go... >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> On 3/11/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>>>>>> Ha, Ha. Rub it in. Actually, I've already turned >>>>>>>>>> them down twice for various reasons (although not >>>>>>>>>> for a Dept. Head) and the next time I apply it >>>>>>>>>> will be to take a job if offered. >>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>> itOn 3/11/11, Dave wrote: >>>>>>>>>>> Sorry, it's just one of those super elite >>>>>>>>>>> schools, and they have a great package, and its >>>>>>>>>>> Hong Kong, and special ed as we've discussed is >>>>>>>>>>> a niche area.... It couldnt hurt to apply could >>>>>>>>>>> it??? >>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>> On 3/11/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>> Arrgh. Don't remind me. I love my job >>>>>>>>>>>> (mostly) and we are enjoying Beijing but I >>>>>>>>>>>> hope those kind of jobs are open when my >>>>>>>>>>>> contract is up and we're ready to move on. >>>>>>>>>>>> ESF and HK would be a great next stop. >>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>> On 3/10/11, Dave -> Thomas wrote: English >>>>>>>>>>>>> Foundation School in Hong Kong is looking >>>>>>>>>>>>> for a Special Education Department Head.

Mar 13, 2011

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Dave I did do the same thing with Rome, except I didnt really "weigh" the factors and there were so many "pluses" that went into the "its Rome" bucket that I just counted everything as one which in comparison left things like compensation greatly under valued.

The thing with Italy is that unless you get married, after 2 years your tax rate bec...See MoreI did do the same thing with Rome, except I didnt really "weigh" the factors and there were so many "pluses" that went into the "its Rome" bucket that I just counted everything as one which in comparison left things like compensation greatly under valued.

The thing with Italy is that unless you get married, after 2 years your tax rate becomes around 40% its impossible to live off the remaining salary. Positions in France in general dont come up often, and my concern is a suitable position wouldn't be available next year. Yes, Paris has a greater intrinsic appeal then staying in Rome, but thats because I've lived and taught in Rome now, and the old is never as exciting as the new.

On 3/13/11, D. Thomas wrote: > Yeah, I can see all of that. A package that equates to > only a decent lifestyle > in Seoul/Beijing is not going to be as attractive as a > package that allows you to live a decent lifestyle in > Rome/Paris. Rome/Paris will automatically get bonus > points in most people's mental accounting that have > nothing to do with money, benefits etc. I'm sure we > will be going through similar debates down the road > when we have a nice cushion built up and will probably > be looking for a change from Asia. > > Didn't you go through a similar type of mental > accounting when you were deciding on Rome? Has the > "it's Rome" factor run it's course, or is it > that "it's Paris" has an even greater > intrinsic appeal? Would it really be a hardship to stay > in Rome another year, or are you worried that the > opportunity may not be there next year? > > Has On 3/12/11, Dave wrote: >> Yeah they would I can imagine, but the school in >> Paris knows I'm under contract until next year and >> they are still proceeding so I have to assume its not >> an issue for them (sometimes sisters don't get along, >> you know how girls can fight). >> >> Here's my issue, in the great formula of deciding to >> accept a position there are many factors and not all >> those factors are equal some are "weighted" >> heavier then others. My concern is that I'm giving >> too much weight to the "It's Paris" >> category. So much so that it is eclipsing all the >> other factors. I don't want Paris to be the same >> issue I had with Rome, where I really was scraping by >> for many months (and even now I don't have a lot of >> savings). Basically, I'm having a hard time putting >> tangible value on something as abstract as "but >> I'm living in Paris". I know what your going to >> say "well whats that worth to you", the >> issue is that there are so many smaller abstract >> factors that contribute to this composite abstract >> factor, that individually even in pieces it's hard to >> put a value on them, how can I come up with an >> aggregate value. For instance being able to drink >> wine on the sidewalk at a paris cafe overlooking the >> tower, how much/what is that worth? >> >> See the money/cost of living is easy, its a very >> concrete number. Sure different lifestyle choices can >> shift it up and done but its still a very easy >> concept to quantify. On the other hand I have all >> these abstract factors that I've ust dumped into >> "its Paris" pile that I cant begin to put a >> number too. >> >> On 3/12/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>> I wouldn't break contract here as I really have a >>> lot invested in the success of our program. I also >>> don't want to be even tempted, so that's why we >>> won't apply until we are in a position to commit. >>> >>> Wouldn't the sister school have a problem with you >>> jumping to the other sister (if you were to give >>> into the temptation)? >>> >>> really want to be tempted. So that's why I don't >>> really wantOn 3/12/11, Dave wrote: >>>> Two salaries are better then one. Okay, so >>>> hypothetically would you break the contract if >>>> EFS offered BOTH of you positions? >>>> >>>> I'm asking because my contract in Italy is for >>>> another year but our sister school in Paris >>>> (France) has started to discuss a compensation >>>> package and I'm very tempted. >>>> >>>> On 3/12/11, D, Thomas wrote: >>>>> We're under contract through the 2011-2012 >>>>> school year. We are actually leaning towards >>>>> staying another year after that since all of >>>>> our bills/moving etc will be paid off/caught up >>>>> and we could really build up a nice nest egg. >>>>> And their package is good but not great >>>>> compared to our current gigs if only one of us >>>>> is teaching fulltime. So, who knows, not for >>>>> the fall, but maybe we will check it out for >>>>> the following year. >>>>> >>>>> On 3/12/11, Dave wrote: >>>>>> Ok fair enough, so its still early for >>>>>> 2011-2012, why not apply with them now for >>>>>> next year? If they are the type of school, >>>>>> location, position you want to be at why not >>>>>> now? >>>>>> >>>>>> On 3/12/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>>> I was actually leaning towards taking the >>>>>>> bird in the hand, but my wife had serious >>>>>>> reservations and I really couldn't address >>>>>>> them all. It was also our first experience >>>>>>> with DoDDS and we did get one interview for >>>>>>> Yokota while we were still in Japan, so it >>>>>>> was a bit deceiving. And in the end, the >>>>>>> two years in NY were good for me >>>>>>> professionally and led to our great >>>>>>> positions here, so it wasn't a disastrous >>>>>>> decision. And hopefully not my last chance >>>>>>> with them. >>>>>>> >>>>>>> >>>>>>> On 3/12/11, Dave wrote: >>>>>>>> *Sigh* I understand, context within the >>>>>>>> time frame makes all the difference. >>>>>>>> Hindsight being 20/20 and all. You really >>>>>>>> were one of those "fingers >>>>>>>> crossed" DoDDS people??? >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> On 3/11/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>>>>> Well, ironically, we were still in >>>>>>>>> Japan the first time I applied to ESF. >>>>>>>>> I was offered a position but my wife >>>>>>>>> wasn't. We were nervous about >>>>>>>>> supporting a family on one salary and >>>>>>>>> weren't certain about the arrangements >>>>>>>>> for my son. Also, in the ironic to >>>>>>>>> pathetic category, we were still >>>>>>>>> hopeful DoDDS or something else would >>>>>>>>> come along (this was in February of >>>>>>>>> that year). It didn't and we ended up >>>>>>>>> back in the states for 2 years. This >>>>>>>>> past time I had already accepted my >>>>>>>>> current position and was really excited >>>>>>>>> about the growth potential for the >>>>>>>>> school and position. ESF would be great >>>>>>>>> (I think) but it's a very established >>>>>>>>> organization and the opportunities for >>>>>>>>> SPED students in HK are plentiful and >>>>>>>>> well established (compared to most of >>>>>>>>> the rest of the world). So although you >>>>>>>>> would be making a difference within >>>>>>>>> that school and for those/students and >>>>>>>>> their families, it's here in Beijing >>>>>>>>> that we're really pioneering and trying >>>>>>>>> to stretch the opportunties available. >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> On 3/11/11, Dave wrote: >>>>>>>>>> Well maybe this is a nod from the >>>>>>>>>> karma gods aligning your stars, its a >>>>>>>>>> sign thomas, a sign.... >>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>> Now im curious why did you decline a >>>>>>>>>> position with them? I mean I know the >>>>>>>>>> school your at isnt a chump school or >>>>>>>>>> anything but ESF is one of those >>>>>>>>>> schools you can end your career at >>>>>>>>>> you know? Its the equivilent of a >>>>>>>>>> DoDDS position in the international >>>>>>>>>> school community, and its even in a >>>>>>>>>> prime location for asia (its usually >>>>>>>>>> a toss up between hk and singapore >>>>>>>>>> for 1st place with Tokyo a solid >>>>>>>>>> second) and as the department head >>>>>>>>>> youd be in a position to shape the >>>>>>>>>> field in a region that sorely needs >>>>>>>>>> it??? Don't you want to make a >>>>>>>>>> difference, and i mean making a >>>>>>>>>> difference in the "big >>>>>>>>>> picture" type of way, champion >>>>>>>>>> the cause, fight the good fight??? >>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>> Im not saying I'd leave europe for >>>>>>>>>> HK, but for the right school/position >>>>>>>>>> I could be persuaded... If ESF >>>>>>>>>> offered me an IB cord. position or >>>>>>>>>> head in science and i could bring >>>>>>>>>> Amellia, and the compensation was >>>>>>>>>> right (and looks like it would be) >>>>>>>>>> I'd go... >>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>> On 3/11/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>>>>>>> Ha, Ha. Rub it in. Actually, I've >>>>>>>>>>> already turned them down twice for >>>>>>>>>>> various reasons (although not for a >>>>>>>>>>> Dept. Head) and the next time I >>>>>>>>>>> apply it will be to take a job if >>>>>>>>>>> offered. >>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>> itOn 3/11/11, Dave wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>> Sorry, it's just one of those >>>>>>>>>>>> super elite schools, and they >>>>>>>>>>>> have a great package, and its >>>>>>>>>>>> Hong Kong, and special ed as >>>>>>>>>>>> we've discussed is a niche >>>>>>>>>>>> area.... It couldnt hurt to apply >>>>>>>>>>>> could it??? >>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>> On 3/11/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>> Arrgh. Don't remind me. I love >>>>>>>>>>>>> my job (mostly) and we are >>>>>>>>>>>>> enjoying Beijing but I hope >>>>>>>>>>>>> those kind of jobs are open >>>>>>>>>>>>> when my contract is up and >>>>>>>>>>>>> we're ready to move on. ESF and >>>>>>>>>>>>> HK would be a great next stop. >>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 3/10/11, Dave -> Thomas wrote: English >>>>>>>>>>>>>> Foundation School in Hong >>>>>>>>>>>>>> Kong is looking for a Special >>>>>>>>>>>>>> Education Department Head.

Mar 13, 2011

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