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 :)
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