More Belizean teachers teaching in the U.S. through Participate Learning

Participate Learning continues to accept applications for its international teaching Program in the United States of America. The organization has assisted many Belizean teachers, who after their time teaching abroad, return to Belize to share their experiences and the new knowledge they have garnered in the education sector. Thirty Belizean teachers have joined the program so far this year and have been participating in orientation sessions since June 20^th through August 13^th in the United States (US).

This is a dedicated induction and support program designed to help ensure the best possible transition and experience in the United States. “Many educators dream of having an international experience, but they also have questions about how the process works, what they need to prepare, and what life in the United States would be like. Our goal is to support them from the very beginning with clear and practical information so they can evaluate this opportunity with confidence,” said Ronald Ramírez, Recruitment Manager for Latin America at Participate Learning. Up-to-date, more than 85 teachers have taught in American schools through this prestigious program.

Teaching in a U.S. public school can represent an important opportunity for both professional growth and personal development for Latin American educators. Through Participate Learning, teachers can apply for positions in public schools in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia.

Belizean educators interested in pursuing this professional experience abroad need to know that applying to the program is free. Participate Learning does not charge an application fee. Interested candidates can review the requirements and, if they meet the profile, begin the online application process at no cost by visiting the website https://www.participatelearning.com/international-teachers/apply/.

The successful applicant is provided with airfare and health insurance is subsidized. Participate Learning purchases the one-way airline ticket for selected participants after visa approval. In addition, health insurance has an estimated monthly cost of $99.69 for the teacher, as part of it is subsidized by Participate Learning.

In regard to the salary selected teachers receive an annual salary equivalent to that of U.S. educators, typically ranging from approximately US$42,000 to US$70,000, depending on experience, academic qualifications, and school district. These salaries are generally expressed as an annual gross amount before taxes and deductions. As a result, one of the most common questions is how much a teacher actually takes home each month. Using the lower end of the published salary range as an example, a salary of US$42,000

per year translates into a gross monthly income of US$3,500. After estimated federal and state tax deductions, as well as Social Security contributions, the approximate monthly net income would be US$2,700, depending on the state.

When it comes to the cost of living, it depends on personal circumstances and the state the teacher will be living in. Participate Learning shares the following estimated monthly cost ranges for a teacher traveling alone:

• Housing rent: between $650 and $1,800, depending on housing type, number of

bedrooms, and location.

• Vehicle purchase and ownership: between $500 and $1,100, depending on the

vehicle and financing terms. This estimate includes the monthly loan payment,

insurance, and fuel.

• Utilities: between $100 and $175.
• Cell phone and internet: between $75 and $150.
• Food: between $200 and $300.

Certain education-related expenses paid out of pocket, such as classroom materials, books, supplies, computers, or software, may be tax-deductible when filing an annual tax return.

The program also allows family members to accompany participants. These include the spouse and children under the age of 18 to accompany the teacher. In addition, a spouse may apply for work authorization after arriving in the U.S. The processing time for this authorization is approximately three months. Participate Learning supports selected teachers throughout different stages of the process, including guidance on visas, housing options, transportation, arrival logistics, and preparation for working in a U.S. school.

To apply, candidates must have an advanced level of English, at least two years of full-time teaching experience after obtaining their university degree (Bachelor’s degree), be currently employed, hold a valid driver’s license, and be available to live in the U.S. for a minimum of two years.

Interested candidates can begin their application today. Once again, the link to apply can be found at https://www.participatelearning.com/international-teachers/apply/.

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