In mid July 2008 WorldTeach sent the first group of twenty volunteers in partnership with the Department of Education of American Samoa to teach a variety of subjects in both elementary schools (ten volunteers) and high schools (ten volunteers).  English is the official language of instruction in the country, but most children speak Samoan as their native tongue and many local teachers may teach some lessons in Samoan. 

Fifteen of the volunteers are assigned to schools on the main island of Tutuila and the other five to schools on the outer islands.

Volunteers live in furnished houses on local families' properties.  Each volunteer has his or her own bedroom, and in most cases two or three volunteers (depending on the number of bedrooms) share an apartment. In a few placements a volunteer has his or her own apartment or house.

American Samoa is a territory of the United States, and as such has access to many federal programs.  In particular, there are sufficient texts, teacher manuals, and school equipment and supplies for the various schools.  Additionally all schools, even those on the outer islands, have unlimited internet access.  Cellphones can be used throughout the islands.

Educational standards are moderately high for the Pacific.  Nearly 30% of high school seniors attend college. Of the 30 schools in the country, only two principals do not have master's degrees, although 69% of the teachers have only associate's degrees. 

The native Samoan culture is alive and vibrant in American Samoa and volunteers receive Samoan language lessons as well as cultural training during orientation.  Volunteers also participate in a week of training by the Department of Education following the three-week WorldTeach orientation.

This program is fully funded by the Department of Education, but volunteers are required to make a deposit of US$1,500 which will be refunded upon successful completion of the program.

In addition to housing, volunteers receive a monthly living allowance which will cover the costs of food, local transportation, and other personal needs.

If you are interested in joining us on the American Samoa Year program, please begin the online portion of your WorldTeach application now!