Category: Uncategorized

In-Demand Credentials for International School Educators

School library Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash
School library Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

Accomplished school leader Dr. Matthew Wendt possesses a long work history as a principal and superintendent. Following his roles as a superintendent for small to medium-sized school districts in Kansas, Illinois, Iowa, and Arkansas, Dr. Matthew Wendt pivoted to serving the international school community as a foreign principal. He is posted in Beijing and Shenzhen, China, and works alongside educators from all over the world. 

American educators interested in working overseas can boost their resumes by obtaining credentials accepted by international school systems. State-level teaching licenses are valid in many countries, though an assessment process may be required. Teachers holding bachelor’s degrees can obtain teaching licenses while abroad by completing an accredited online teacher preparation program and passing any necessary exams. 

Philosophy-specific credentials can also open doors. Many international schools adhere to standards based on International Baccalaureate, Waldorf, or Montessori principles. Educators can earn teaching and leadership credentials from these pedagogies in early, elementary, and secondary education. 

Last, international programs all over the world have a high demand for qualified English as a second language teachers. For these positions, candidates should obtain at least a 120-hour in-person Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certificate.

Advantages of Academic Exchange Programs for High Schoolers

Student in a field Photo by Sharefaith from Pexels
Student in a field Photo by Sharefaith from Pexels

Dr. Matthew Wendt possesses more than three decades of classroom and administrative experience, including several tenures as the superintendent of schools. After leaving his most recent post as the superintendent of schools in Arkansas, Dr. Matthew Wendt began his post as the president and CEO of The American Institute for International School Partnerships (AIISP). The AIISP establishes American schools at international schools around the world to support student exchange programs.

Student exchange programs are a valuable way to gain exposure to a new culture while earning credits towards a high school diploma. Some of the non-academic benefits of participating in an exchange program include:

International experience: Exchange students have the opportunity to experience another way of life and gain the first-hand experience navigating a new culture. Participants can also make strong international connections through their host families, classmates, and program officers, which can encourage a more globally minded education and career path. 

Language skills: Exchange programs offer unique circumstances for language learning by providing in-class lessons alongside everyday immersion. Fluency in a second or third language is not only a highly desirable skill in any career, but also expands one’s ability to connect with a wider group of people. 

Independence: High school exchange programs often match participants with host families, so students develop important life skills while exploring a new country. The experience of making new friends in an unfamiliar environment will help prepare participants for college life.