British Teacher considering a move to Atlanta (Decatur: employment, public schools)

[Miss_smiler]

Hi,
I am a british high school teacher who is considering a move to atlanta. Can anyone give good advice on areas with good public schools. Also since I will be making a move from a different country, where are nice (diverse) places to live? I won't know anyone, so it would be nice to be in an area which has lots to do.

Thanks

[affi]

First, Why are U deciding to move to ATL?

Do You have families Here?

[lastminutemom]

How do you intend to work here legally?

Unless you teach middle or high school math, science or special ed it will be nearly impossible to get a job on your own here. There is an organization VIF that you may be able to go through

Visiting International Faculty (VIF) Program

but in GA the economy is slowing, tax revenues are down and we have seen major education cuts already and I expect unfortunately that we will see more.

[TakeAhike]

Originally Posted by Miss_smiler

Hi,
I am a british high school teacher who is considering a move to atlanta. Can anyone give good advice on areas with good public schools. Also since I will be making a move from a different country, where are nice (diverse) places to live? I won't know anyone, so it would be nice to be in an area which has lots to do.

Thanks

I'm going to assume that you have researched the employment regulations for obtaining certification in the US/GA. Science, math and special ed teachers are in demand.

Gwinnett county is the largest school system in the state and is located about 30 minutes north of Atlanta. Also north of Atlanta you will find Cobb County which has a number schools that consistently achieve excellent scores on national tests. There are 5/6 counties and municipalities that comprise the metro area and you could apply with each of them as the academic needs may vary.

The City of Decatur might be a good fit. Located east of the City of Atlanta near Emory University. It is recognized as diverse and family oriented. You would be close to Midtown which is popular with young professionals.
The levels or percentage of diversity varies throughout the metro area. ITP/Inside the Perimeter/Intown could be categorized as 'more diverse' than the suburbs/OTP/Outside the Perimeter.

What are your interests? Opportunities to participate in sports, cultural activities and volunteer work exist in all parts of metro Atlanta.