Elementary Education Co-Teacher

Post

Philippines

Required Skills

Qualified candidates will have one or more of the following criteria:

• Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science degree in Pre-school, Early Childhood, Middle School, or Elementary Education

• Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science degree in any discipline with Elementary Education state certification

• Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science degree in any discipline with 1 or more school year classroom teaching experience at the Early Childhood, Middle School, or Elementary level. Full time Montessori teaching experience is also acceptable

Due to the Philippines government visa requirements and the government’s current strong stance and action on combatting drug production, distribution/trafficking, and use, applicants will not be considered for Peace Corps positions in the Philippines at this time if they have ever been convicted of any major crimes, even if it was expunged or sealed, and even if they otherwise would meet the standards for legal clearance to serve as a Peace Corps Volunteer more generally.

Desired Skills

Competitive candidates will have one or more of the following criteria: 

At least 30 hours of English, foreign language, or literacy tutoring experience with elementary, middle, or high school students and/or adults

A background in people-centered project development or project management using grassroots/community-based development activities focused on children and youth development

TEFL certification

One or more years of full-time experience in reading literacy

An interest in Filipino culture and willingness to integrate into a Filipino community

Living Conditions

Housing:

Housing conditions for Volunteers vary widely depending upon their community and can range from heavily urban to very rural. In underdeveloped areas, housing construction is typically a hollow concrete block or a mix of concrete, wood, and bamboo. Housing in more developed areas can range from the same construction as in underdeveloped areas or up to full concrete and modern design. Most houses have running water and electricity but do not have air conditioning. Access to internet will vary and cannot be guaranteed.

Host Family Situation:

Volunteers live with host families during the community-based portion of the Pre-Service Training. Typically, Volunteers live with host families for the first four months in their permanent communities. After this period, Volunteers may choose to continue living with a host family or move into their own rented accommodations. Volunteers are strongly encouraged to continue living with host families to strengthen their language fluency and integration into the community.

Intercultural Challenges:

Volunteers will encounter very different social and cultural norms that will require patience and flexibility. The American sense of privacy, in terms of information-sharing or physical space, does not exist in many Philippine communities. Questions about topics that Americans may deem private, such as religion or marital status, are considered conversation starters in local communities. Some American women may experience challenges in adjusting to the limitations that are imposed on women by the culture. Views and attitudes about what is proper for girls and women can be very traditional such as being home by sunset or having a host family member or relative accompany them when going out with male friends or community members.

Intercultural Differences:

Volunteers of an American racial, ethnic, or national minority or those whose religious or spiritual beliefs differ from the majority of the local community members may experience a high degree of curiosity or unwanted attention. An American without any religious affiliation might receive an unusual number of questions about why the Volunteer does not have a religious affiliation. They may expect to receive invitations to attend religious activities for exposure. These experiences can be uncomfortable, but Volunteers are encouraged to use these moments as opportunities to deepen local community members’ understanding of the U.S. through conversations and authentic engagement in building relationship and intercultural integration. Staff will address challenges and opportunities during Pre-Service Training and in individual consultations.

Climate:

The climate of the Philippines is tropical and characterized by relatively high temperatures and high humidity. Generally, the country experiences two major seasons; rainy season from June through November and dry season from December to May.

Dress:

Philippine culture is traditional with strict norms related to appearance. Therefore, Volunteers must be prepared to abide by these guidelines to ensure a successful s