About the Organization

Private, bilingual school grades preschool through sixth grade (450-500 students). The class size averages 18-20 students. Students are instructed 50% in English and 50% in Spanish. The pre-school site is located a few blocks from the primary school in a lovely neighborhood with cobblestone streets and fountains. Class sizes average about 22 students. The school has had a student exchange program with various schools in the United States since 1982. Presently, they have programs with Concordia Lutheran School in San Antonio, Texas and St. Vincent De Paul Catholic School in Salt Lake City, Utah. The school is in the lovely colonial but modern city of Guadalajara, the second largest city in Mexico. Lots of cultural activities, handicrafts and sites to see. Near to Lake Chapala, and the quaint towns of Ajijic and Chapala. Nearby is Lake Chapala and Puerto Vallarta is about 4 hours away.

Job Description

Interns are teachers’ aides. The areas they can assist or teach in are: English, art, math, science, U.S. History, coach basketball, school newpaper/website, prepare classroom materials, read stories to the children, and work with small groups of students. Interns are regarded as professionals and are expected to maintain daily work schedule, do necessary classroom preparation, and participate in all school tasks and activities. They may also participate in school field trips. Interns may also help research lesson plans/activities on the web. Must be flexible and willing to substitute teach. The school director and English coordinators will determine specific duties and assignments appropriate to intern's training, interests and school needs. School has computers, CD players, slide projector and a nice children's library. Interns have the opportunity to attend monthly workshops. the school uses Cooperative Learning techniques and some Montessorti materials.

# of Positions per term

2

Start Dates

mid August or early January

Duration of Internship

10 weeks to 10 months

Academic Background

Open to most undergraduate/graduate majors. Education, ESL majors preferred. Great for students who can also bring skills in one of the following: art, P.E., first aid, dance, special activities, science, etc.

Skills/Experience

Teaching experience/enjoy working with children. Speak English as a native speaker. Experience in working with children at either pre-school or elementary school level and classroom management skills or ability. Some knowledge and/or experience in teaching ESL is recommended. Study of English grammar prior to internship is recommended. Outgoing personality, polite, well-mannered.

Language Ability

Proficiency in Spanish equal to two years of college level.

Other Requirements

Interns must be independent, enthusiastic, and a team player. Must be able to take initiative and ask questions as needed. Experience working with groups of children in or out of the classroom. Classroom management skills or ability recommended. Willing to adapt to Mexican customs and lifestyle of host families. Along with your application, please submit an electronic photo of yourself .

Total costs vary depending on how long you plan to be abroad, where you will be living, your personal spending habits, and current exchange rates. The following estimates will give you a ballpark figure for this internship. Get help with the math from our handy Cost Calculator.

IE₃ Program Fee

The program fee* for the first term of any internship is $2950 - $3150. You do not pay tuition in addition to the program fee. Visit your University's IE₃ page for details, costs for additional terms, and campus administrative fees.

*The program fee noted above reflects the anticipated fee increase that will go into effect for the Fall 2010 term and will apply to all terms thereafter.

Estimated One-Time Expenses

Expense Type	Price
International Travel	$600-$700
Visa Fees
Recommended Immunizations

*See Additional Cost Information below.

Estimated Monthly Expenses

Expense Type	Price/month
Housing	$0
Food	$50
Local Transportation	$50
Recreation	$50
Personal Expenses	$50

Compensation

Free room and board provided in a homestay.

Additional Expense Information

The Teaching Internships in Mexico receive priority consideration for the IE3 Scholarship.

$600 suggested for 12 weeks for incidentals, personal expenses, local transportation, occasional meals out, and a modest amount of local recreation and some travel. Students who plan to go out frequently in the evenings or travel extensively on weekends, should budget additional funds for these activities.

This is a cultural immersion program with opportunities to participate in everyday Mexican life and culture. Interns must be able to adapt to Mexican familiy lifestyles and school policies. Dress code is casual – Men: slacks, jeans ( no holes) tennis shoes ( no sandals) button shirts or polo shirts, no tattoos or body piercings (or at least well covered). Women: slacks, blouses, polo shirts, jeans, no beach sandals, no tattoos or body piercings (or at least well covered).

Website: www.kennedyschool.edu.mx