Job Discussion Forums

[pocketplayer]

Hello to Dave's ESL Cafe

I stumbled upon this site researching.

I need advice from those who have been there & done that.

Quick Background
I am a single male, 47, with fifteen years teaching experience as an elementary school teacher. I primarily taught 4th and 5th grades. I have a current clear professional multiple-subject teaching credential that is still valid from the state of CA. I currently live in the state of TN now.

Other education includes;
B.S. Psychology
M.A. Theology

Current Interests
I am in a place to pack up and go easily right now. I wil be very forthright...I want to make as much money as possible over the next few years and am willing to sacrifice for it. One great thing about being a little older is knowing self. I am aware of what I can handle and what I cannot. I know my limitations.

The past year for me has been like living in a foreign country. I grew up in Los Angeles and now reside in a small country town in TN where hunting and guns seems to rule. I feel like it is 1950...and it looks like it is. This has been a real cultural shift for me, so I think it has been a primer for living in a new land (to a degree).

Can I get some quick feedback as to start the process?
I also want concerns from those out there. I value a critical eye from those who have been there or have been burned by romantic/ idelaistic visions of what teaching overseas is.

Thanks,
Joe

[tomstone]

Edit. Check PM

[Glenski]

You seem like an excellent candidate for international schools. Where do you want to go?

[johnslat]

Dear pocketplayer,

Most money = Middle East (most of the time.)

Regards,
John

[Sadebugo]

[pocketplayer]

Thanks! I appreciate the time those took to give some feedback, especially knowing my questions are most likely very basic...but I am in the begginging stages of gather data.

Although I mentioned previously a need for the "higher salary" type schools, a cultural match is also important for endurance and quality of life.

That said, the past year here in TN has been a challenge, but also prep for changing cultures. It was never my intent, yet as it turns out, I live in a remote area in a singlewide mobile home and have few friends.

I have developed disciplines this past year and experiences only one living away from the comfort of home can understand. In short, it might be a primer for going overseas or living in a culture that has many differences (differences are not always a bad thing as well).

I tend to lean towards the Middle East cultures. I am Italian, like the heat, have a Middle East look, especially if I grow a beard, feel being a male an advantage, understand the deep religious roots and limitations (I am not the typical Westerner in this sense and can live with strict observances).

What I would be interested in is specific schools, maybe comment on ads like the following;
http://www.teachaway.com/content/teaching-public-schools-abu-dhabi

Thanks again!
Joe

[slaqdog]

Look at Elementary school positions mid east-best quality life/money places imho Qatar and UAE both recruiting for schools now.
check em out and when you come back we'll do the applications for you too;-)