Why Short Term?
There are many reasons someone might prefer the prospect of a short term teaching position. Jobs of a shorter duration can let you fulfill your dream of teaching English without giving up on other goals.
Perhaps you're graduating in December and starting graduate school in the fall. If you don't want to defer your entrance, a three-month position would get you back in time for new student orientation. A short term position that doesn't require a degree can also be a great way to try out teaching ESL before pursuing certification.
However, think carefully about why you want a short term position. If you want a shorter job because you don't like the idea of living in a foreign country for more than a few weeks, would your needs be better served by a short vacation?
Options for Short Term ESL Jobs
There are many options for short term ESL jobs, including substitute teaching, migrant worker programs, enrichment programs, and international opportunities.
Substitute Teaching
For very short term ESL jobs, consider substitute teaching in local school districts with ESL programs. Check with your state department of education and the district for requirements. An extensive application and background check is usually required. Although you will enter the general pool of substitute teachers, if you have an ESL certification, make your qualifications known to the district coordinator or ESL teachers who can request specific substitutes. They will be happy to learn of your specialty.
Substitute teaching sometimes has a bad reputation, with stories of classrooms gone wild. However, the experience will help you develop classroom management skills. It also offers you the opportunity to get a feel for different schools and classrooms. These impressions can help you decide what type of teaching environment you desire in future positions.
Substitute teaching for a day or two at a time can also lead to long-term subbing opportunities. When a teacher must be out of the classroom for an extended period of time, such as for the birth of a child, the school attempts to find one person to fill the position for the entire period. They will be looking for someone who can actively take over and teach the class, not just pass out worksheets or show movies. Sometimes the teacher decides not to return to the classroom, providing you with an inside track to the position.
Migrant Worker Programs
Special ESL programs sometimes exist in areas that experience an influx of migrant workers during harvest season. These programs rely on volunteer teachers and tutors, but an educator with ESL expertise is more likely to find a paid position. If you're looking for experience more than a paycheck, volunteering with one of these organizations can be a worthwhile way to spend your time. Check with local human service agencies in your area for potential opportunities.
Enrichment Programs
Local community education programs may offer enrichment ESL classes lasting a few weeks or months. They will usually be devoted to practical English skills the students can use on the job or to feel more comfortable with common tasks like grocery shopping. If an ESL course doesn't already exist in your area, propose one.
International Opportunities
While many international programs require extended commitments, there are still short term ESL jobs available to fit your needs. These jobs will be listed along with other opportunities, so you may have to do some digging. Transitions Abroad offers a comprehensive listing of sites dedicated to posting ESL teaching jobs.
Even if a program is only advertising yearlong jobs, enquire about the possibility of shorter assignments. They may have scheduling gaps to fill and welcome the chance to bring you into the school. There may be a short enrichment session between semesters or some other special situation requiring extra teachers. You'll never know if you don't ask!
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