Description:
American Samoa is a U.S territory, which provides it access to America's federal programs. All of its schools, even those on the outer islands, have some internet access, text books and school supplies. Cell phone coverage is also available throughout the islands. In July 2008, WorldTeach, in partnership with the Department of Education of American Samoa, sent its first group of volunteers to teach various subjects in elementary and high schools on the islands. The program has since grown substantially due to local support and demand. WorldTeach is the first volunteer organization to forge a relationship with the Department of Education.
Highlights:
Placement Sites & Housing
Volunteer teachers may be placed at any of the public schools in American Samoa. The majority of volunteers are placed in schools on Tutuila the biggest island in American Samoa. Volunteers are also placed in Manua and on Aunu'u the smaller islands of the territory.
Housing accommodations vary in American Samoa. Some volunteers stay in a separate house on a family's communal land, while other volunteers have a separate room within the family's house. The majority of the volunteers are placed in groups of two to three per house. Even if not in an intimate host family situation, volunteers must recognize the importance of social life at home in Samoa.
Most volunteer housing is a relatively short walk or bus ride from their schools. Volunteer placements range from relatively rural, near the mountains or the ocean, to somewhat industrial, in the Tafuna/Nuuuli area.
Qualifications / Skills Needed:
* Bachelors
* Must be fluent in English
* Comfortable working in cross-cultural environments
* Independent worker
* Good people skills and organizational skills
* Flexibility and creativity in problem solving
* Interest in international education and development
Language:
English
Language Used As A Medium of Teaching:
English
Salary / Pay: Living stipend of USD 150/month.
Experience Required: no
This Program is open to
Worldwide
Participants.
.
Participants Travel to American Samoa
in Groups
Typically Participants Work
Independently
Application Process Involves:
- In-Person Interview when Feasible
- Letters of Reference
- Phone Interview
- Resume
- Transcript
- Written Application
Typically The Application Process Time Is 1-2 weeks
Post Services Include:
- Alumni Network
- Exit Debriefing Abroad
WorldTeach's Mission Statement: WorldTeach is a non-profit, non-governmental organization based at the Center for International Development at Harvard University that provides opportunities for individuals to make a meaningful contribution to international education by living and working as volunteer teachers in developing countries. WorldTeach offers summer and year-long programs in American Samoa, Bulgaria, Chile, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guyana, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Namibia, Poland, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania and Thailand.
Year Founded: 1986