Expert: Debba Robinson - 5/17/2006

Question
I am interested in teaching overseas.  I would prefer an opportunity whereby another teacher and myself would "exchange" our positions and apartments and perhaps earn the same pay.  I would be interested in one school term.  What information do you have on this subject matter.

Answer
Dear Paula,

I've been teaching overseas since 1981 and I've not encountered any international schools willing to do that.  The cost of visas and other legal documents alone would be reason enough.  The 'exchange' of salaries would not be possible.  International schools don't have pay scales that really relate to most in the US - a salary overseas might be $15,000.  The school wouldn't be able to go up to your level - but $15,000 a year is more than adequate according to the cost of living in that country.  Add to that the certification nightmares that would be met in the US, if you were to find a host national with whom to trade, and I'm sure you can understand that this would be very difficult.

That being said, I can't be certain that someone, somewhere, wouldn't be able to do something - I'm just saying that I've not run into anyone able to do so.  You might do a search on Google, or some other search engine, for 'teacher exchange'.  Or, research schools located in the country you wish to visit and make a direct proposal.  

Good luck.

Debba