The Traveling School Faculty
“Equally impressive in my eyes was the job Lizzie’s TTS teachers did as mentors and role models. The meaning of blind faith was never more real than when I watched Lizzie’s plane take off for Africa. She was with fourteen other teenage girls, being led by four women who I had met only hours before. But, as I learned over the next 15 weeks and was fortunate to witness during Lizzie’s second semester with TTS, their teachers were exactly the kind of women that any mother would be proud for her daughter to emulate. They carried within their cores a desire to learn, to teach, to laugh, and to care. The teachers were tireless in their attentiveness to the girls and in passing along the undeniable truth that what we do in our world has a great effect on others. They taught Lizzie the importance of solid leadership through compassion, through understanding, and through a constant hunger for knowledge.”
-Barb Hills, mother, Maine
It takes an uncommon mixture of qualifications to be a teacher with The Traveling School. Our instructors have to literally “have it all”: academic credentials, safety training, international travel savvy, language skills – and above all – a love of teaching. In addition they must possess personal qualities that include cultural sensitivity, leadership, good judgment, creativity, and endurance.
Philosophy
Instructors at the school believe in what they do. Although they have long hours, sometimes stressful working conditions, and spend months away from home – they love their jobs. The school’s instructors are inspired by the other teachers, energized by the students, and motivated by the opportunities to grow and learn and help others do the same. They are committed to helping students achieve their dreams.
Skills & Experience
ACADEMIC - The school uses a mix of teachers with advanced degrees, extensive work-related job experience, and current teaching certificates. 80% of our instructors have Master’s Degrees. When overseas, the instruction mix may incorporate local teachers and volunteers.
OUTDOOR SKILLS - Instructors possess a full resume of experience leading wilderness and international expeditions. Their personal outdoor interests are broad and incorporate a range of outdoor competencies.
INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL – Field instructors have extensive travel experience and boast a high level of foreign language proficiency. Many instructors have prior experience leading or participating in international group programs. Their cumulative experience is invaluable for safety, logistics, and student learning.
LEADERSHIP - Our teachers have leadership experience with school, public service, community and outdoor organizations. Most importantly, our instructors have leadership qualities of character, compassion, dedication, and skill – all essential to being role models for girls.