English Literacy Resource Teacher (Primary Schools)

Post

Eastern Caribbean

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.

Desired Skills

Competitive candidates will have one or more of the following criteria:
• Demonstrated record of volunteer and/or professional experience focused on improving literacy skills of primary school children
• Learning/Instructional Design experience — session design; blended and online module design; curriculum design
• Experience establishing and co-leading clubs or informal learning in music, theater, academics, homework support, sports, or life-skills
• Experience with Learning Management System(s) and online learning
• Experience in outreach and building networks in communities (especially with the aim to engage parents, families in their children’s education)
• Willingness to integrate current, relevant issues like climate change, environmental protection, media literacy, youth development, etc. in and outside of the classroom (identifying resources, service-learning, and after-school clubs/activities)
• Experience facilitating professional development workshops

Living Conditions

The region experiences varying weather patterns characterized by heat and humidity- which tends to be very warm and sunny year-round, with temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to mid-90s Fahrenheit. Life often embodies a simple, yet comfortable lifestyle connected to nature and community. The populations in most Capitals range from 10,000 to 24,000 people. Volunteer communities’ range from villages to small (1,500) and mid-sized towns (3,400). The geographical diversity contributes to the presence of steep, narrow, and winding roads. While major roads may be well-maintained, smaller roads often adding to the charm of rural living sometimes presents challenges for transportation.

All Volunteers must complete Pre-Service Training (PST) which is an intensive 9-week training focusing on literacy, language, medical, and safety and security. Trainees will live in Saint Lucia for the first 3 weeks and move to their island of service to develop skills specific to their assigned country.
• During the first 3 weeks PST, Trainees will be housed in a double-occupancy dormitory room with their fellow Trainees. Afterwards, Trainees immerse themselves in the culture by living with a host family. Volunteers will have a private room, and share bathrooms, common spaces, and meals with the family.
• Upon completing PST, Volunteers transition to independent living apartments equipped with essential appliances, and furniture. Homes often feature open-air designs to take advantage of natural ventilation and cooling breezes. Some houses may not have hot water systems, and Volunteers should prepare to be flexible in adapting to a new environment.

Peace Corps is committed to creating a supportive environment for Volunteers of all backgrounds.
• The islands experience some water shortages, power surges and occasional power cuts.
• Volunteers have the option of using their phone or using a Peace Corps-issued phone upon arrival.
• Internet is available, though connectivity may be unstable. Each Peace Corps office has a computer with Internet access for use by Volunteers. Some schools have Wi-Fi access, but it may not be reliable. Volunteers have the option of purchasing a data plan using the allowance provided by the Peace Corps.
• Traveling around the island by minibus is the most common and recommended mode of transport and the prices are reasonable. Due to the terrain, bikes and recreational jogging may not be as popular but can sometimes be noticed in some neighborhoods. Walking is common.
• Christianity plays a prominent role in personal and professional settings. Prayers are offered daily in school assemblies and at official events. Laws related to sexual orientation, gender identity, and reproductive rights are influenced by the Church. While Volunteers may feel pressure to conform to religious beliefs and practices, the Peace Corps only expects Volunteers to respect the host country’s religious practices.
• The Eastern Caribbean region is generally tolerant and welcoming. Still, anti-sodomy laws are in place, homosexuality is not culturally acceptable. LGBTQI+ Volunteers must exercise discretion when it comes to revealing their sexual orientation.
• Volunteers and most often women often experience unw