"Teach Away" seeing more Fla. applicants

TAMPA - An increasing number of teachers and school staff from the Florida are starting to participate in a unique opportunity called "Teach Away."

"Teach Away" is a global headhunter for teachers and school staff and has become a viable option for teachers amid budget cuts and layoffs.

Eve Dobbins, who recently returned from a year of teaching near Abu Dhabi, sought out the opportunity online.

"You have to roll with the punches," said Dobbins, who had recently been certified and was looking to travel the world.

"I loved it because you could be creative with it," Dobbins said.

She said she earned $4,200/month, tax free while teaching in two government run schools near Abu Dhabi. She was also allotted a free hotel stay for the duration of her trip.

Dobbins pointed out success and difficulties in the classroom. "It wasn't as organized as it is here. I just had a white board. Sometimes I had markers, sometimes not. I think I learned sometimes simplicity is the best thing. They love music. They love patterns and repetition, and that's how I taught them English."

Dobbins is now trying to secure a teaching job locally.

Working abroad not only provides teachers and faculty with valuable life experience, but could set them apart from other applicants said David Scanga, the Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Schools in Pasco County.

"It gives you experience that I think, if I was hiring as a school principal, I'd be interested to know how you would bring your experience overseas into the classroom here," Scanga said.

Positions with "Teach Away" range from volunteers to school administrators, which are $9,000/month positions.

To learn more about "Teach Away," visit www.teachaway.com .