More about your teaching adventure at JCS and Jarabacoa!
We are excited to have received your interest in teaching abroad. Before you expand your interest in JCS, it is important for the JCS Administration to provide you with as much information possible about living and teaching in Jarabacoa.
Take some time to review the following information before you decide to schedule an interview.
Take some time to review the following information before you decide to schedule an interview.
Cost of living
As in any country, the cost of living will depend upon your own necessities. Jarabacoa is a small town away from the big cities which means that the cost of living is low. Minimum wage for clerical/office work is between 10-15,000 RD pesos per month (less than $265.00 USD). Government workers (including public school teachers) tend to earn twice that amount.
Although a Christian school, JCS is not backed up financially by any institution. To operate, JCS depends on student tuition. JCS takes pride on what it can offer its teachers/volunteers as it is the most that the school can offer its dedicated team.
Budgets
While an individually would normally need a budget of up to $1,000.00 USD per month in cities such as La Vega, Santiago, and Santo Domingo; it is different in Jarabacoa because many local farmers have stands where locals shop to save on their monthly expenses. In Jarabacoa, an individual can live comfortably with a budget of $250.00 USD -- considering that housing is included as a school benefit.
Although a Christian school, JCS is not backed up financially by any institution. To operate, JCS depends on student tuition. JCS takes pride on what it can offer its teachers/volunteers as it is the most that the school can offer its dedicated team.
Budgets
While an individually would normally need a budget of up to $1,000.00 USD per month in cities such as La Vega, Santiago, and Santo Domingo; it is different in Jarabacoa because many local farmers have stands where locals shop to save on their monthly expenses. In Jarabacoa, an individual can live comfortably with a budget of $250.00 USD -- considering that housing is included as a school benefit.
The school
Mission: Our mission is to provide a bilingual and spiritual based educational program in a family oriented environment. We encourage students to develop critical thinking with a worldwide view, by incorporating modern teaching techniques, which will enable them to achieve success and become better citizens.
Vision: Our vision is to empower students to reach their full potential as productive citizens with Christian values.
To view photos of the school grounds, please visit this page.
JCS is proud to be a school that is open to all denominations. Our purpose is to instill Christian values, one of the values being to respect others.
Classrooms
All classrooms are equipped with a desktop computer, large television, whiteboard, and furniture (desks/tables). Each classroom has a maximum capacity of 22 students; however, JCS chooses to, when possible, only enroll up to 15 students in one group.
Teachers are required to bring their own laptop computer . All staff members are given space in Google G Suite - Education in order to avoid using their laptop's storage.
The classrooms have a TV for projections. Teachers MUST bring their own laptop computer to teach at JCS.
Materials
JCS provides its teachers with all the basics to begin the school year. Throughout the year and as you submit lesson plans, you are welcomed to submit requests for materials. We encourage all teachers to submit a materials request ticket in order to avoid out of pocket expenses.
Staff Uniforms
JCS implements a conservative dress code. Teachers are required to wear the school polo shirt (of maroon color), khaki or black dress pants, and closed-toed shoes.
Teachers that wish to dress to impress and/or make use of their weekly "professional day pass" can dress business casual any day of the week.
On Fridays, teachers are motivated to wear relaxed/comfortable clothing that is conservative and adheres to the Teacher Manual.
Sweaters: Jarabacoa has great climate, you may need a sweater at times -- especially in the mornings . We ask teachers to wear solid colors.
School Hours
A JCS teacher day starts by arriving to school before/by 7:30 am. There are 2 scheduled general breaks throughout the day (these are not prep periods). The last class for elementary students is at 3:25 pm while high school ends at 3:50 pm. Teachers are scheduled until 4:00 pm.
Professional Development
Sessions are offered on a monthly basis. Sessions can take place in school and/or out of school.
Vision: Our vision is to empower students to reach their full potential as productive citizens with Christian values.
To view photos of the school grounds, please visit this page.
JCS is proud to be a school that is open to all denominations. Our purpose is to instill Christian values, one of the values being to respect others.
Classrooms
All classrooms are equipped with a desktop computer, large television, whiteboard, and furniture (desks/tables). Each classroom has a maximum capacity of 22 students; however, JCS chooses to, when possible, only enroll up to 15 students in one group.
Teachers are required to bring their own laptop computer . All staff members are given space in Google G Suite - Education in order to avoid using their laptop's storage.
The classrooms have a TV for projections. Teachers MUST bring their own laptop computer to teach at JCS.
Materials
JCS provides its teachers with all the basics to begin the school year. Throughout the year and as you submit lesson plans, you are welcomed to submit requests for materials. We encourage all teachers to submit a materials request ticket in order to avoid out of pocket expenses.
Staff Uniforms
JCS implements a conservative dress code. Teachers are required to wear the school polo shirt (of maroon color), khaki or black dress pants, and closed-toed shoes.
Teachers that wish to dress to impress and/or make use of their weekly "professional day pass" can dress business casual any day of the week.
On Fridays, teachers are motivated to wear relaxed/comfortable clothing that is conservative and adheres to the Teacher Manual.
Sweaters: Jarabacoa has great climate, you may need a sweater at times -- especially in the mornings . We ask teachers to wear solid colors.
School Hours
A JCS teacher day starts by arriving to school before/by 7:30 am. There are 2 scheduled general breaks throughout the day (these are not prep periods). The last class for elementary students is at 3:25 pm while high school ends at 3:50 pm. Teachers are scheduled until 4:00 pm.
Professional Development
Sessions are offered on a monthly basis. Sessions can take place in school and/or out of school.
Flights
When flying into the country to teach at JCS, the school Administration will arrange to pick you up at the airport to avoid for you to have to spend any money.
JCS recommends flying into the Santiago Airport (STI) because it is only a 45 minute drive to Jarabacoa. In some cases, it is easier to find flights to Santo Domingo (SDQ) and/or other airports such as the Puerto Plata Airport (POP); however, you must keep in mind that flying into these airports will require a 2.5-3.5 hour car journey to Jarabacoa.
JCS recommends flying into the Santiago Airport (STI) because it is only a 45 minute drive to Jarabacoa. In some cases, it is easier to find flights to Santo Domingo (SDQ) and/or other airports such as the Puerto Plata Airport (POP); however, you must keep in mind that flying into these airports will require a 2.5-3.5 hour car journey to Jarabacoa.
the culture
The Dominican Republic has a laid back ambiance. People tend to regard their sanity more than their work/jobs which can be stressful to many people. The Dominican people would normally eat lunch from 12-2pm. This is a time where many businesses close and stop all of their operations. It is important to mention that it is normal for a business/shop to be scheduled to open at a certain time, but instead open 30 minutes to one hour later at no notice.
Dominicans enjoy a good party and drinking. Tourist and expats must be ready to join the fun and/or allow for it to happen. Dominicans can get loud with their music without regard to their neighbor.
It is important for all visitors to remember that they are in a different country and that the country will not change its culture nor traditions to please tourist/expats.
To learn more, we recommend these sites:
Dominicans enjoy a good party and drinking. Tourist and expats must be ready to join the fun and/or allow for it to happen. Dominicans can get loud with their music without regard to their neighbor.
It is important for all visitors to remember that they are in a different country and that the country will not change its culture nor traditions to please tourist/expats.
To learn more, we recommend these sites:
- https://www.afsusa.org/countries/dominican-republic/#:~:text=Dominican%20culture%20is%20a%20mixture,structure%2C%20religion%2C%20and%20music.&text=Dominicans%20are%20very%20fond%20of%20dancing%20to%20merengue%20and%20bachata.
- https://www.godominicanrepublic.com/about-dr/our-people/
- https://theculturetrip.com/caribbean/articles/10-traditions-only-dominican-can-understand/
- https://www.everyculture.com/Cr-Ga/Dominican-Republic.html
- http://www.dominicanembassy.org.uk/dominican-republic/culture/
living in jarabacoa, dominican republic
Transportation is cheap with options ranging from conchos (motor taxis) which charge between 50 cents to $2.00 USD depending on the journey. Regular taxis are available but tend to be expensive. Buses are also an option when traveling a longer distance. Jarabacoa is a small town with many shops. Many basics needs are within walking distance of no more than 5-10 minutes.
If you are looking to purchase a vehicle, you can find a new scooter for $800.00-$1,300.00 USD, cars tend to be expensive due to import taxes.
Food
Supermarkets are nicely stocked. Many supermarkets have a large selection of imported goods; however, imported goods tend to be overpriced.
Cash/Card Payments
Tourism has grown tremendously in the past 2 years. Many shops, including small shops, accept cash and credit/debit card payments.
Banks
The most popular bank in the Dominican Republic is Banco Popular. Most foreigners prefer banking with Scotiabank. Both of these banks can be found in Jarabacoa.
ATMs are conveniently placed throughout town.
Safety
Jarabacoa is known to be a safe town. The locals try their best to look out for the tourists and expats as many of their shops depend on their business.
While walking late at night, you will encounter many other people including police officers and the Tourist Police team (CESTUR).
To learn more about the Dominican Republic, we recommend these sites:
If you are looking to purchase a vehicle, you can find a new scooter for $800.00-$1,300.00 USD, cars tend to be expensive due to import taxes.
Food
Supermarkets are nicely stocked. Many supermarkets have a large selection of imported goods; however, imported goods tend to be overpriced.
Cash/Card Payments
Tourism has grown tremendously in the past 2 years. Many shops, including small shops, accept cash and credit/debit card payments.
Banks
The most popular bank in the Dominican Republic is Banco Popular. Most foreigners prefer banking with Scotiabank. Both of these banks can be found in Jarabacoa.
ATMs are conveniently placed throughout town.
Safety
Jarabacoa is known to be a safe town. The locals try their best to look out for the tourists and expats as many of their shops depend on their business.
While walking late at night, you will encounter many other people including police officers and the Tourist Police team (CESTUR).
To learn more about the Dominican Republic, we recommend these sites:
housing
JCS provides a comfortable living space to all its teachers/volunteers. There are 3 housing options that are assigned on a first come, first served basis.
Two of the three housing options are to be shared with one more teacher/volunteer. Should someone prefer to live alone, JCS can assist in recommending other places.
All of the JCS housing options are equipped with:
What's not included?
More to consider
The Dominican Republic is a third-world country. You will encounter issues with the water being cut off for up to 3 consecutive days due to heavy rain. The power goes out 2-3 times per week. Most people get around town using motorcycles which tend to be loud.
Two of the three housing options are to be shared with one more teacher/volunteer. Should someone prefer to live alone, JCS can assist in recommending other places.
All of the JCS housing options are equipped with:
- Electricity generator/inverter
- Water tank
- Water heater
- Living room set
- Kitchen set and appliances
- Bedroom set
- Washer. Clothing is sun-dried outside.
What's not included?
- Drinking water (approximately 50 DOP per jug.
- Propane gas (approximately 500-,1500 DOP per month depending on usage).
- House decorations
More to consider
The Dominican Republic is a third-world country. You will encounter issues with the water being cut off for up to 3 consecutive days due to heavy rain. The power goes out 2-3 times per week. Most people get around town using motorcycles which tend to be loud.
the commitment
JCS offers 6 and 12 month contracts.
It is imperative for all volunteers to keep in mind that JCS cannot replace teachers at a last-minute notice nor is it healthy for students to change teacher mid year.
If you cannot commit to your contract, please do not apply.
It is imperative for all volunteers to keep in mind that JCS cannot replace teachers at a last-minute notice nor is it healthy for students to change teacher mid year.
If you cannot commit to your contract, please do not apply.
Your first week in jarabacoa
Getting to know the place where you will spend the next year is important. JCS has planned some activities that you can choose to participate in:
- Town Tour
A tour around Jarabacoa is our top priority when you arrive. Giving people the chance to see what Jarabacoa has to offer is always a great opportunity for new hires to see what is available in town. - Welcome gathering (Suspended in Compliance with COVID-19 Protocols)
The JCS staff will gather to get to know the new team members - Dominican host family (Suspended in Compliance with COVID-19 Protocols)
JCS will arrange for you to be able to spend time with a local family with the purpose of exposing you to the Dominican culture and lifestyle. - Beach trip! (Suspended in Compliance with COVID-19 Protocols)
The Dominican Republic has many beautiful beaches to offer. New hires will be invited to a relaxing beach day before the adventure in jarabacoa continues.
time off
While there are 6 scheduled PTO (Paid Time Off) days. JCS ia grateful for its volunteers and invites all teachers to enjoy what the country has to offer. Should any staff member need time off from school, it will be granted considering that is announced within a minimum of a week's notice.
All teachers are encouraged to travel and invite friends and family over to Jarabacoa.
All teachers are encouraged to travel and invite friends and family over to Jarabacoa.
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