The following ad is probably the most honest ad you will ever see for an English teaching job in China. I'm an American who has taught English at K.A. School near Shanghai for a year. The school had odd experiences with foreign teachers. Both sides can be blamed. But they asked me to help them find a couple of English teachers for this year (September to June).

The school is located near Shanghai Pudong Airport. It's in the boondocks, but only 60-90 minutes from downtown by bus/subway or bus/bus. The school is affiliated with a national university, so it's fully accredited. It enrolls around 1,500 students from first through ninth grades. Teachers would be assigned to either elementary and/or middle school classes.

The current need is for two NATIVE SPEAKERS of English to complete a staff of four foreign teachers. Ideally the school would like to hire a married couple, or else two women who are friends, that would like to work in China together. They want people who are from the USA, Canada, Great Britain, Australia, New Zealand, or similar countries with NATIVE SPEAKERS.

The individuals taking these jobs should have an interest in China or, at least, in Asia. You should be prepared to make a one-year commitment and not have to lug too many major possessions with you. There should be no bills to worry about at home. You can't get homesick after a few months. You can't quit in the middle of the year. Make a decision and stick it out.

Chinese salaries suck. I'm telling you that right now and up front. Last year, we made the equivalent of $605 per month. I'm trying to get them to raise the level some, yet I can't guarantee it. But you don't teach to get rich anyway. It's about the experience. This is the type of thing that will change your life. You will teach but you will also learn a lot. It's worth taking the challenge.

The foreign teachers will share a two story, four bedroom, four bathroom, two living room house on campus. Each living room is equipped with a TV, refrigerator, and computer. Each bedroom has a bed, desk, cabinet, and telephone. Since you don't have to pay rent, that will take a little of the sting out of the low salary. You will teach between 18 and 24 classes per week.

The school will also reimburse your round trip airfare at the end of the school year, as long as the ticket is reasonably priced. You should also be non-smokers. You should not be heavy drinkers either. Teachers are supposed to be role models. You must have college or university degrees. And, once again, this school is not in the city. It is 60-90 minutes from downtown.

The important details, such as visas and work permits, will be done by the school after you arrive. No experience necessary and certification is provided. Oh, and this isn't one of those shady Chinese places you read about that gets its kicks by ripping off foreigners. If interested, please mail a cover letter, resume, and photo to dragonstutor@hotmail.com by September 12.