In July 2008, WorldTeach, in partnership with the Department of Education of American Samoa, sent its first group of volunteers to teach various subjects in elementary and high schools on the islands. While English is the official language of instruction in the country, Samoan is the native tongue of most of its children. Thus, many local teachers provide lessons in it.

To qualify as a WorldTeach volunteer in the American Samoa year long program, applicants must be native English speakers, have a Bachelor's degree, and be between the ages of 18 and 74 by the departure date. 

Most volunteers are assigned to schools on the main island of Tutuila, while several are placed in schools on its outer islands.

A majority of the volunteers share apartments with other program participants. Others have lived in furnished houses with host families, or in their own living spaces. 

American Samoa is a U.S territory, which provides it access to America's federal programs. All of its schools, even those on the outer islands, have internet access, as well as sufficient text books, teacher manuals, and school supplies. Cellphone coverage is also available throughout the islands.

For the Pacific, educational standards in American Samoa are moderately high.  Nearly 30% of high school seniors attend college. 69% of the teachers have Associate's degrees, whereas the remaining 31% have Bachelor's degrees or higher. Out of the country's 30 principals, 28 hold Master's degrees. 

Once volunteers arrive in American Samoa, they participate in a three-week WorldTeach orientation, where they learn about the lively and vibrant native Samoan culture, as well as the Samoan language.  After this orientation, volunteers undergo a week of training run by the Department of Education.

This program is fully funded by the Department of Education. Volunteers are required to make a deposit of US$2,000 before departing, which will be refunded upon successful completion of the program.

In addition to housing, volunteers receive a monthly living allowance that covers the cost 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!