Mathman: I think you could benefit from re-reading my original post. I am not looking to bring a trailing "girlfriend." I am looking for information on the likelihood of schools hiring a gay couple who are BOTH teachers. Some of the countries I could teach in DO allow gay marriage while much of the US does not. That definitely creates some interesting scenarios.

Thanks everyone else for the feedback. I'm feeling more confident about our options as a gay couple and am looking forward to starting the application process. We don't plan on hiding anything about ourselves and just want to be considered for our skills. Any more hints and suggestions would be most welcome!

Ok...so today there is a posting on TIE online for a school in Vienna, Amadeus International School, which appears to be just starting new in fall 2012. Does anyone know anything about this school? I checked out the website, but has anybody heard other information through the International Teacher grapevine?

There is an opening for both of us, but I'm a little wary of the new school bit. The salary looks pretty good and there are some reimbursements for living expenses it looks like.

Thanks everyone for the comments and insight. The alternative lifestyles blog really offered some helpful information.

We will be specifically looking at European schools, both east and west, as those seem to be the most outwardly tolerant. We would be open to other schools as well, but we will be open with them. I'd hate to get there and find out they loathe us not because of our teaching but because of how we live.

Right now I'm really wanting to start international teaching in fall 2012, but I know that's probably unrealistic for us. I will however, keep an eye on the postings if something magical opens up!

Aside from issues of sexuality, are we competitive for good schools in Europe? I don't mind a non-elite school, but we do want to be part of a school that's not mired in low teacher morale and administration issues. We are also open to other areas that would be open to us.

We want to make enough for both of us to live comfortably (we are naturally frugal but want to travel), and to save a little.

PsyGuy...thanks for your comments. I'm glad to know that we would be competitive in terms of experience.

In terms of finding work at the same school, we are going to try for this, but I appreciate your heads up about some of the challenges we may/will face. Currently we work at the same school in Minnesota. We have never come out officially at work, but neither have we tried to hide anything. I know that many colleagues, staff, and parents know. We aren't in your face, but then again, I've never had a heterosexual come up to me and tell me they are straight. We just live the way we live, come what may.

I would appreciate any other thoughts/comments from people who have experience being a gay international teacher, or from others who have friends who have had this experience.

We are both really excited to embark on this teaching adventure, but are also trying to be realistic.

Currently we have good jobs, but are looking for something different. We aren't desperate, so we have the advantage of biding our time and finding the right spot, perhaps.

So, my partner and I are interested in teaching internationally, and I would like an idea of what we can expect/hope for.

Here are our qualifications:

Me: BA in English; Language Arts 7-12 certification in Minnesota
13 years experience teaching: AP Literature & Composition; American, British, and World Lits; Creative and College Writing, Speech/Communication, Drama
Extra-Curricular Experience: Drama, Volleyball, Track/Field
Professional Extras: Faculty Leadership Team, Technology Integration Specialist, Advanced Placement Coordinator, Staff Development Chair

She: MA in Exercise Physiology; BA in Biology; 7-12 Certification in Minnesota
20 years experience teaching: both life sciences and physical sciences (even though certification only in biology); math (minored, taught, no certification)
Extra-Curricular Experience: Basketball, Softball, Track & Field
Professional Extras: Dean of Students experience

As a gay couple, I think it is best that we are in Western or Eastern Europe or in Thailand. Our preference is definitely Europe. Do we have a chance here? Are we marketable? We aren't necessarily looking to make a TON of money, but we want to save and travel.

Any input would be greatly appreciated. I would like to start planning now so we can get an early start next fall.

I've really been enjoying perusing this forum and the review site. It's been great to learn about other teachers' experiences!