Year-long Volunteer Teaching Positions in American Samoa
Location
American Samoa
United States: Cambridge
Description
American Samoa is a U.S territory, which provides it access to America's federal programs. All of its schools, even those on the outer islands, have some internet access, text books and school supplies. Cell phone coverage is also available throughout the islands. In July 2008, WorldTeach, in partnership with the Department of Education of American Samoa, sent its first group of volunteers to teach various subjects in elementary and high schools on the islands. The program has since grown substantially due to local support and demand. WorldTeach is the first volunteer organization to forge a relationship with the Department of Education.
Volunteers have the opportunity to serve as teachers in public elementary or high schools. Program participants will teach English, math, science, or possibly business courses according to the Department of Education's needs and the volunteer's qualifications in a content area.
Highlights
Volunteer teachers may be placed at any of the public schools in American Samoa. The majority of volunteers are placed in schools on Tutuila – the biggest island in American Samoa. Volunteers are also placed in Manu'a and on Aunu'u – the smaller islands of the territory.
Housing accommodations vary in American Samoa. Some volunteers stay in a separate house on a family's communal land, while other volunteers have a separate room within the family's house. The majority of the volunteers are placed in groups of two to three per house. Even if not in an intimate host family situation, volunteers must recognize the importance of social life at home in Samoa.
Most volunteer housing is a relatively short walk or bus ride from their schools. Volunteer placements range from relatively rural, near the mountains or the ocean, to somewhat industrial, in the Tafuna/Nu’uuli area..