About this role
English Teacher
Project Description: Costa Rican schools are looking for native English speakers to support their goal of national bilingualism by 2040. Will you answer the call to serve?
In 2008, Costa Rica’s government declared English a national interest to improve the country's competitiveness and bolster the productive sector. Conversational English language learning, in particular, is a priority to increase cultural, educational, and professional opportunities. However, local English teachers lack sufficient exposure to English or training. Access to training and resources from the Ministry of Public Education varies from region to region, leading to varying English proficiency levels among both students and teachers.
As an English Teacher, you will collaborate with local educators to support students reach a B1 proficiency level by the end of high school. Alongside school staff, you will support formal and informal learning opportunities to deepen understanding and appreciation for the English language. Together, you will strengthen the students’ communicative competence, opening doors to subsequent academic and professional opportunities.
Required Skills: Bachelor's degree in any discipline.
Living Conditions: Housing will depend on availability at the time and the Volunteer’s assignment. For the first 4 months, Volunteers will live with a host family and have a private room. After those 4 months, they may move to independent housing if available; that may be a separate small building or an apartment or house. Housing is located within five kilometers of the Volunteer’s primary work site, and they will be able to walk, bike, or use public transportation to commute.
Activities: Plan and teach engaging English classes alongside a local teacher. Provide informal English language support for teachers and school staff. Prepare students for spelling bees and English festivals. Facilitate conversation clubs and tutoring sessions for additional practice. Design, pilot, and adapt sustainable learning materials. Exchange best practices with fellow teachers at conferences or workshops.
You may also work on additional projects that meet the community’s interests and priorities, such as bilingual recreational activities and English classes for community members of all age
Training: As an English Teacher, you will be trained to support Costa Rican English teachers, students, and community members to improve their English language communicative skills for better academic and professional opportunities. Peace Corps/Costa Rica will teach you intermediate to advanced Spanish to help you comfortably live in and connect with the community.
After 10 weeks of training, you will move to either a rural, semi-urban or urban community where you will collaborate with a public elementary school or high school. You will work with the community to assess the local needs and develop solutions based on a work plan in line with the expressed needs and priorities.
Job Highlights: Strengthen English language skills in an immersive, intercultural environment. Exchange best practice with education professionals on the national and regional levels. Contribute significantly to country’s goal of complete Spanish-English bilingualism by 2040.