Wait, Before You Quit Teaching: Why You Should Consider Teaching Abroad First

Teaching can be incredibly rewarding, but long hours, low pay, and the emotional demands of the classroom can leave even the most passionate teachers feeling drained. Many teachers leave the field within the first 5 years throwing away years of formal education and training for new fields. But what if there was a way to bring back your love of teaching AND provide you a livable salary?! Before you leave your career behind, consider putting your expertise to work for you in a competitive and healthy work environment!

Teaching overseas offers a unique opportunity to reinvigorate your career and regain your passion for education. Here are a few reasons why you should consider teaching abroad before quitting all together:

1. A Fresh Start in a New Environment

Teaching in a different country provides a fresh perspective and a break from the stresses of your current school environment. Many international schools offer smaller class sizes, supportive communities, and a focus on teacher well-being, which can help you rediscover your love for teaching.

2. Generous Benefits and Perks

International schools often offer competitive salaries, free housing, travel allowances, and healthcare, making it easier to focus on your teaching without worrying about finances. These benefits can reduce stress and give you the opportunity to live comfortably while pursuing your passion for teaching as well as personal goals.

3. A Strong Support System

Many international schools have tight-knit expat communities that understand the challenges of living and working in a new country. You’ll find camaraderie and support among fellow teachers, which can help alleviate feelings of isolation or burnout that you might be experiencing here in the U.S..

4. The Chance for Personal Growth

Living and working abroad can be a transformative experience. You'll gain a deeper understanding of different cultures, develop new skills, and build resilience. This personal growth can reignite your passion for teaching and help you return to the classroom with a renewed sense of purpose.

5. New Opportunities for Career Development

Teaching internationally can open doors to new professional opportunities, including networking, international conferences, and leadership roles with additional stipends. The experience can make your resume stand out, giving you a broader range of career options both abroad and back home.

6. Get Back to Doing What you Love

International schools often offer more autonomy and are better funded, allowing you to focus on creative, student-centered learning without the pressure of excessive testing. With better student behaviors and a more positive school culture, teachers find greater job satisfaction and work-life balance. If you're craving a supportive environment with happier staff and the freedom to teach in a way that reignites your passion, teaching overseas could be the perfect fit.

7. Honestly. What's 2 years Anyway?!

I mean really, think about it. What have you done in the last 2 years as an American teacher that REALLY excites you? How many countries have you visited? What about your kids? How many professional PDs have you attended with more than 5 nationalities represented? How much have you saved?! 2 years of teaching in America goes by day-by-day, hand-to-mouth, but overseas every day is an adventure! You are constantly seeing and learning something new, why not get out and live a little. If you hate it, you are back home or on to the next International school in only 2 academic calendar years!

You miss 100% of the shots you don't take." -Wayne Gretzky