Frequently Asked Questions
 What is the Teaching in Taiwan program? Top
This program provides Arkansas teachers the opportunity to teach English to students in Taiwan.
Who is eligible to participate? Top
Any licensed Arkansas teacher may apply to participate in this program. This includes new teachers with an Initial license. Such teachers will be able to complete their mentorship requirements upon return with no penalty. (See additional FAQ’s below for information.)
How do I apply for the program? Top
To apply for the Teaching in Taiwan program, you’ll need to complete and submit a brief application package. You can get a copy of this application package by e-mailing Mary Richbourg at Mary.Richbourg@arkansas.gov. All applications must be received by noon April 1.
How many Arkansas teachers will be accepted for this program? Top
Each year, a selection committee will choose five to 10 Arkansas teachers to participate.
If I’m selected, how long will I be in Taiwan? Top
All teachers selected to participate in this program will sign an 11-month contract to teach in Taiwan. This contract runs from August to July.
What would my responsibilities be in Taiwan? Top
Each participating Arkansas teacher will be paired with a Taiwanese classroom teacher. In addition to providing English language instruction, the Arkansas teachers will work with Taiwanese educators to develop a curriculum, prepare lesson plans and teaching materials, conduct classes, and evaluate student progress.
How will I be compensated for my work in Taiwan? Top
In addition to your salary, the Taiwanese government will provide Arkansas teachers with housing arrangements. Salaries will be dependent on teaching experience and the level of education. The schedule below presents approximate salary amounts based on the exchange rate/conversion to US dollars as of January 2008.
- Holders of doctoral degrees: $2,198.30 - $2,752.09/month, USD
- Holders of master’s degrees: $2,106.20 - $2,613.64/month, USD
- Holders of bachelor’s degrees: $1,888.06 - $2,349.46/month, USD
Will I have to buy a plane ticket? Top
The Taiwanese government will reimburse each teacher with two (2) round-trip plane tickets to Taiwan for him/herself and a family member, if applicable.
What kind of documentation will I need to travel to and work in Taiwan? Top
You’ll need a current passport, visa, and work permit. The Ministry of Education will assist participating teachers in applying for a visa and work permit. However, if you are interested in applying for the Teaching in Taiwan program, you may want to consider applying for your passport now, so that it will be ready when you need it. It can take several weeks to receive a passport once you’ve submitted your documentation. Further information concerning additional documentation will be provided to those teachers selected to participate.
How will my participation affect the accumulation of years towards retirement? Top
The Arkansas Department of Education will be discussing this question with representatives from the Arkansas Teacher Retirement System to see if there are any provisions or an ability to make any provisions with regard to this question.
How will my participation in this program affect my mentorship requirement? Top
New teachers who are on an initial license will still be able to complete their mentorship requirement toward their Standard Teacher’s license upon return. There will be no penalty ensued.
|
