Teaching jobs overseas through the US military

I love the idea of teaching abroad and heard about military options. What teaching opportunities exist overseas with the US military, and what qualifications do you need to apply for these positions?

The Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) is a federal agency that operates schools for military-connected students worldwide. Therefore, teaching opportunities associated with the U.S. military would be within DoDEA schools. These schools are commonly referred to as Department of Defense Dependents Schools (DoDDS).

You would essentially be teaching children of military members stationed overseas. The DoDEA runs about 160 schools worldwide, including elementary, middle, and high schools. They are present in Europe, the Pacific (including Japan and Okinawa), and Guam in addition to a few schools in the U.S. that are primarily on military bases.

As for qualifications, the requirements are similar to those of stateside teaching jobs:

1. A Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited university or college is necessary. The degree should ideally be in the field of education. If it is not, you may also qualify with at least 24 semester hours in the subject you wish to teach.

2. Teaching certification or licensure from any U.S. state or territory is generally required. The license needs to be in the specific teaching area you are applying for.

3. You typically also need a minimum of two years full-time teaching experience to be considered, though it can be waived under certain conditions.

4. You need to be a U.S. citizen.

Working in a DoDEA school can offer some incredible experiences. Along with the opportunity to live abroad, benefits could include housing allowances, relocation assistance, and access to medical facilities on the military base.

However, competition for jobs in DoDEA schools can be quite rigorous due to the unique opportunities they offer. So, it would be important to ensure your credentials and experiences stand out when applying. And remember, commitment to the education of military-connected children will be paramount.