It's time to recruit again! Re-activated with Search and busy filling out individual school applications that have posted positions in my area. I know it is still early, but I'm wondering how one knows if a school is simply collecting applications at this point or is actively interviewing for the positions. Since most schools don't seem to reply back (or just have an automated response), how would I know if my application is sitting with the rest or has been tossed in the trash bin? Do applicants normally send a follow-up email? If so, how long after submitting the application? Do schools typically notify an applicant when the position is filled or do you just have to wait and watch the position disappear?

I'm getting ready to head out soon, and I would like to know the best and most reliable VPNs that are not blocked in China. I would like to be able to access Youtube, Facebook, etc. Any recommendations?

I walked into my local police station, and it took less than 5 min and cost $15. It is just a letter from the department stating you have no criminal record on file.

As many of us are preparing to move to new schools this summer, what are the essential questions that one should ask an assigned buddy teacher before arriving at the new destination. I know this may vary by location and school, but I'm just wondering if anyone has a good idea of some general questions that should be asked ahead of time. Maybe a top 10 list.

I am at the top of the pay scale in my state/district in California at $82,000 and I'm leaving because it just doesn't cut it after expenses. Taxes and other deductions take a large chunk of that. Then deduct another $2,000 for housing and another $1,100 for full time daycare and that really adds up. Not to mention that gas to drive around costs a few hundred a month too. Let's not forget the addition of paying partially for benefits that came about recently in addition to pay cuts and furlough days due to continuous budget cuts. I haven't even started to add on utilities, food, sports for the kids, clothes, and any travel. $120,000 for a teacher, now that would be nice but it isn't happening where I am at.

How about the water in China? Do you bring a filter to attach to the tap for drinking, brushing teeth, etc. or only use bottled water. How about cooking?

As many of us are preparing to move to new schools next year, what can one generally expect to find in terms of school supplies at the site? I've read a lot about what is not there, but what should I expect WILL be there? Do schools generally have lined paper, copy paper, butcher paper and borders for bulletin boards, dry erase markers, easers, pens, pencils, die cuts, etc. Also, what school supplies have people brought, but didn't need vs. supplies for your classroom you wish you had brought?

For those who have gone through the medical check up after arriving in China, what do they actually check? Is it just bloodwork? Or do they do everything like eye sight, hearing tests, x-rays, poke and probe every orifice? Just wondering what to expect?