Hi Everyone,
I  am moving to Guatemala July 18, 2011.  I will be teaching 4th  grade at the American School of Guatemala.  Ironically, a girlfriend  from middle school and her husband are also teachers at this school so I  will actually know someone when I get there.  I will be teaching  English language arts, science, math, and social studies to mostly  native Guatemalan kids.  All of the subjects that I teach will be in  English.  I will have a co-teacher in the classroom that will teach  Spanish language arts daily.  It is a 2 year contract.
Frequently asked questions:
What are you going to do with your condo?  I have a great friend who is going to rent it while I am gone!
What  about Hank?  Hank will be shipped to Guatemala, via Delta Cargo, about 2 weeks after I get there.
What about your season  tickets?  I am keeping Falcons.  I will be home in December for 3 weeks so I  should be able to see a few football games.  I do not  want to give up my Falcons seats just yet. I did not buy Braves and Hawks since I will not be in town and selling all season will be to hard to manage from another country.
Do you know any Spanish? I have taken about 15 hours of one on one lessons through skype.  I feel like some days I'm making progress and other days, I have learned nothing.  I feel like it will all work out in the end.  I am planning to attend language school in Antigua for 2 weeks before school starts.
Can you take your  jeep?  I'm not.  I bought a car from a teacher that is leaving. 
When do you  leave? Monday, July 18th
Why do you  want to go there? Why not?  I'm tired of the school system I am  currently in and I do not feel that going to another school or even  county is going to fix the problems that I have encountered.  As a  teacher, I do not feel like I am doing what is best for my students  anymore.  But once upon a time, I really enjoyed my job.  I am hoping to  find that place again.  Also, I do have the opportunity to make more  money and travel as well.  With my condo rented,  my monthly salary  remains the same.  But, my housing is paid for by the school in  Guatemala.  They also cover moving expenses, shipping items, summer  travel, settling in allowance, insurance, etc.
What does  your family think?  Amy has been my number one supporter from day one.   Owen is a little upset but I think he will adjust.  My parents are both  supportive as well.  They will be relocating to Alabama this summer, so  we already knew that we would be seeing each other less.  Most everyone  thinks its a great opportunity.  I really only have 2 friends that had  been entirely negative about the situation.  Alot of friends want me to  stay, but understand the amazing opportunity that this is.
Can  I come visit?  Please do.  My door is always open, as it is in  Atlanta.  Round trip tickets are currently about $700 for non stop  flights.  But you have a free bed once you get there :)