@ teachermama

Let me add to this conversation also... When I was hired at my school, all the 'new hires' met with the head of school when we first arrived and went around and introduced ourselves. When one teacher stood up and told who she was, where she was from, what her hobbies were, etc, the head said, "You were hired because of ______" and referred to her volunteering her talents at a nursing home.

Obviously that wasn't the main reason she was hired, but when the candidate pool has been whittled down to the head's top choices, those things absolutely do stand out... just as Walter said.

I went to a job fair 2 years ago with qualifications like yours (masters, nbct...) and I have a dependent. I had 3 job offers with tier 1 schools and I had NO pyp training. Don't let it discourage you - go for it!

I realize what grades PYP covers, but if you're giving information - you should give ALL the correct information.

The Primary Years Programme (PYP) for pupils aged 3 to 12 focuses on the development of the whole child in the classroom and in the world outside.

Technically, PYP covers more than grades 1-5. It starts at age 3.

I am in SE Asia.

We just got new contracts with about an 8% pay raise and increases in housing allowance and utilities as well.

Regarding National Boards certification, you must hold a valid, current state issued teacher certificate in order to teach - at least in most states. Just having your NB certification will not allow you to teach.

I think the reason she wanted me to go ahead and file is because if I owe the IRS any money for 2011 - which is a possibility due to my husband's income - it must be paid by April 15 or I will incur penalties. (I didn't know that even if you file an extension - the IRS will still assess penalties/interest beginning April 15 if you owe them anything.)

She just thought it would be easier to file an amended return after I have spent 12 months abroad which will help me determine if I will be a "bonafide resident" or "physical resident" than waiting for those 12 months PLUS having to pay any potential penalties.

But that's why I brought my question to this forum - because I know you guys have so much knowledge and information! ;-)

Buffalofan,

Do you know what that tax form number is? I would like to look at it.

Also, on that tax form does it ask if you have paid the self employment tax? Just wondering where and if that would be addressed on there....

So my question is.... do any international teachers pay this self employment tax? Mine, at 15%, will be about $8000 and to be honest - I don't want to pay it!

Just got back from meeting with my accountant and here's what she told me.... She said I would need to go ahead and file my 2011 taxes as I normally do and then will need to file an amended return once I meet the 12 consecutive months rule.

She also informed me that I would be required to pay self-employment tax at a rate of around 14% on my earnings WHAT? I wasn't expecting that.

I will be leaving soon for my first international position and have a meeting planned later in the week with my accountant. I just want to meet with her to make sure I know what I need to know about working abroad and paying taxes. However, I also want to take advantage of the wealth of knowledge here on this forum!

I have searched the forum and read all the information available on paying American taxes when teaching abroad, but would be interested to hear whether most people claim to be bonafide residents or physical residents. I will retain my home here with plans to come for Christmas break and summers, so I'm trying to decide what would be best for me.

All suggestions, information and tips would be appreciated.

Thanks!

Thanks, guys. You just made my heart happy to hear that you were fine. :-)

I have accepted my first international teaching position and will be leaving at the end of July for Asia. I am so excited but also a little worried because I'll be leaving my 19 year old son in the states to finish his college education.

Any suggestions or tips from parents who have been separated from their college age child?