- Decatur Public Schools District #61
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International Teacher Cultural Exchange Visitor Program
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DPS is hosting International Teachers to our district for the upcoming school year. The purpose of the Exchange Visitor Program is to provide International Teachers with opportunities to participate in educational and cultural programs in the United States. Participating teachers are placed in a K-12 host school for 1–3 years and teach a wide range of subjects with the possibility of a two-year extension.
Peoria Public Schools District #150 is the J-1 VISA Sponsor and DPS is one of twelve host districts in Illinois. We cannot wait to welcome teachers from Ghana, Nigeria, Guyana, Cameroon, Philippines, and Kenya to our school district!
Members of the Decatur community can get involved in welcoming all the new teachers for the upcoming school year, please contact Monica Wilks, Director of Human Resources at mwilks@dps61.org or Mary Brady, PK-12 Director of Teaching & Learning at mbrady@dps61.org
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: Why is the district implementing this program?
A: Decatur has faced a long-standing certified staff shortage, leading to burnout and vacancies. The International Teacher Program is a creative solution to help address this issue and ensure students have qualified, consistent educators.
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Q: What qualifications do international teachers bring?
A: Many international teachers have extensive teaching experience and hold advanced degrees. The teachers interviewed and selected all have an average teaching experience of nine years.
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Q: What are the language requirements for international teachers?
A: All international teachers must demonstrate a high level of proficiency in the English language to ensure effective communication and instruction in the classroom.
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Q: Are international teachers receiving extra pay, housing stipends, or additional benefits?
A: No. International teachers are not receiving housing stipends, additional pay, or any benefits beyond what current DEA members receive.
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Q: Do international teachers work under the same contract as other DEA members?
A: Yes. All international teachers must have an Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) and are fully eligible to be DEA members. They work under the exact same contract as all other DEA staff.
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Q: Was the DEA involved in the approval of the International Teacher Program?
A: Yes. The DEA was consulted before the program went before the Board of Education. We asked critical questions and received all requested information from the HR Department and Teaching and Learning.
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Q: Did DEA have a role in the hiring process for international teachers?
A: Yes. DEA representatives were present during all interviews of international teacher candidates.
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Q: Are background checks conducted for international teachers?
A: Yes. All international teachers must pass comprehensive background checks both in their home country and in the United States to confirm good reputation and character.
