If you read my post, “Lovely Lima“, you probably know that I fell in love with Lima when I was there on my last vacation.  I was talking about Lima so much that my mom asked me, “well, have you looked into getting a job there?” At the time I had heard only vague references to a “great school in Lima”. Lets see how it measures up!

I give this school a  10/10! 

1. What type of school is it?

Non-profit, US accredited, offering all IB programs. They also offer a Peruvian certificate for those students who have strong Spanish skills.

2. Student population:

On the school website it says there are 1,641 students. “Students come from 42 countries, with approximately 26% from the United States, 52% from Peru, and 22% from other countries.”

3. Class size:

This website says that the average class size is 20.

4. Technology:

The school website says that, “all students develop technology activities and projects fully integrated into every PYP curricular area by using laptops or iPads in their classrooms or by coming to the Tech Labs.” One thing that I like is that they have, “Tech Coaches [who] work collaboratively with all homeroom and specialist teachers.”

5. Retirement:

I have read on this website that they offer a 8% completion bonus per year of employment.

6. Overall package:

On various online forums and such, FDR is regularly touted as one of the few school in South America where you might be able to save some money. One commentor said that the salary scale runs from $25,000 to $36,000 (hopefully this is outdated because the cost of living in Lima seems about the same as Portland). They also provide a housing allowance which might cover some utilities. I really like how they have a housing allowance to try to fit you in the right home. New teachers are given a relocation allowance too. They also provide health and life insurance.  I have read in various forums that the school also provides yearly flights.

7. City Profile:

Lima is a modern city full of colonial beauty. It is right on the water with a great year-round temperature.  It has great salsa dancing, art, food, and friendly people.

8. Salsa Dancing:

According to Salsa Power, you could salsa every night of the week! Also, my friend says that there is AMAZING Cuban salsa in Lima.

9. Teachers:

The school website lists the school as having “190 faculty members: 107 Peruvian citizens, 51 United States citizens, and 32 third country nationals.”

 

10. Food:

Lima has many famous restaurants. They are particularly well known for a variety of fresh ceviches (raw fish “cooked” in citrus and spices).

Please comment! Have you been to Lima? Would you want to work there? Have you or someone you know worked at the FDR American School? Can you add any info to what I’ve listed above?