American School Foundation Monterrey Review from April 2016

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American School Foundation Monterrey

So far this has been my best experience at a teacher abroad. I liked the administration, my fellow teachers and the students.

When I was there it was primarily a middle school and high school but there is now an expanded elementary school program that I can't comment on, but imagine is probably up to the same standards as I experienced.

The curriculum is up to date, the technology is as well and the American School is considered one of the top schools in Mexico for a reason. Most of the students are highly motivated locals. You don't see very many international students.

Working at this school is particularly attractive if you are single. Monterrey has a great night life and most of your fellow teachers will be single as well. You can have a lot of fun heading out to the nightclubs together on weekends.

I was particularly impressed by the HR department. They handled everything from setting up my visa to getting me into housing to ensuring I was paid on time. They responded to every question and concern I had very quickly and effectively.

Before I got there I was worried about medical coverage because Mexico does not have the greatest reputation in this regard. But my worries were unfounded. HR set me up with a great English speaking doctor who knew what he was doing.

Another of my concerns before I arrived was that there would be gang violence. Apparently this was true in the past but the government has now cleaned up the city. It's honestly much less dangerous than cities I have taught at elsewhere.

Unlike other schools I have taught at I was not pressured to take part in any after school activities. They were pretty much happy with me simply coming in and teaching my classes, and then let me have time to myself to explore the area, make local friends and have a good time.

They do fly you home to the states at their expense once a year which was nice – and very hassle free.

Overall it was a great experience. If I didn't like to change cultures every few years and was looking for a long term place to work I would have stayed there.