Korean Job Discussion Forums

[sonshine20]

I've just been offered a S.M.O.E. contract for 2.7 million won/month. I don't really want to take it (because of summer/winter camps, not knowing what school I'll be placed in, etc.). However, I'm getting nervous that I might not find what I'm looking for anyway, so I'm considering it.

If I turn down the SMOE job, do you think that I will be able to find a decent public school position that...
1. is within commuting distance from Eastern Kangnam
2. offers a housing allowance instead of housing
3. doesn't require overnight camps
4. pays at least 2.5 million won/month
5. gives more than 2 weeks vacation (unofficially, anyway)
6. (not required, but a big plus) starts before September

Am I dreaming? Expecting way too much? What's the likelihood of finding something like this? (By the way, I have a master's degree in education (not TESL or anything), 5 years certificated teaching experience in the U.S., but only a little ESL experience. Also, I'm searching from outside of Korea.)

If you don't think I'll be able to find this, what can I expect with my qualifications? (#1 and #2 are required, others are somewhat negotiable.)

Thanks!

[Peter Jackson]

With your qualifications I would forego the public school thing and look into international schools or universities. You would get the vacations you want and be doing more "real" teaching, ie not trying to get 40+ students to say more than "I'm fine thank you and you?"

I know Korean International School has a good name..

BTW, were you teaching high school or elementary?

Cheers,

[sonshine20]

Well, I've applied to several universities, but not gotten many bites. I think it is because I'm not currently in Korea and because I'm limited to Seoul (since I already have housing in Kangnam).

I've taught grades 4-6 here in the U.S.. I'm willing to teach any grade in Korea.

[Qinella]

I'd recommend taking a look at these jobs listings. They have several international school positions, offering over 3.0 million, and I also saw some places in Kangnam on there.

[flotsam]

[sonshine20]

How about this: (my first question was rather complicated)

Am I likely to be able to find a public school offering at least 2.5 million won/month within commuting distance from Kangnam? (If I wait for individual school hiring- instead of going with SMOE?)


P.S. Thanks to both Qinella and flotsam for their help.

[teachingld2004]

What is S.M.O.E?

[cubanlord]

[sonshine20]

Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education