Search Associates is renowned for helping educators embark upon their first international teaching adventures. On November 16-18, 2018, Senior Associates Jennifer and Bob Imholt hosted the first Panama City Fair. Having spent 11 years working in three international schools in Venezuela, Colombia, and Paraguay, the Imholts brought their passion and enthusiasm for connecting outstanding international schools from around the region with enthusiastic, qualified teachers looking to work overseas, specifically Latin America, many for the first time.
In the company of 28 schools and 52 candidates, the Latin America Fair launched one of Search Associates’ more intimate recruiting events. Though focused primarily on supporting schools from around the region, the fair did host schools from as far away as the U.S. and China!
With its “tranquilo” atmosphere and supportive environment, the Latin America fair is an excellent venue for educators to make connections and experience what the world of international teaching is like. Many attendees were first-time international educators, who appreciated the advice they received from the Search Associates staff working the fair. In addition to Jennifer and Bob Imholt, their team of Chief Operating Officer Rajiv Bhat and Chief Software Architect Ed Sunder were present to assist candidates and recruiters. Rajiv, who spent five years as Head of School at the International School of Panama, brought his experience and knowledge of the region. Ed was able to assist with the fair portal and share information about APLi, which many member schools are now using as a candidate management tool.
The Latin America Fair acts as a fantastic introduction to the world of international teaching for the candidates, many of whom have never taught outside their home country. Viewing the schools’ presentations, the attendees were able to gain a good sense of the diverse schools and countries represented. Candidates curious to learn about the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme attended a fun-filled, interactive presentation by IB Coordinator Lori Lauscher of the International School of Panama.
Recruiting administrators who attended the fair were also offered a wonderful professional development opportunity to attend New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) Ace training at the nearby campus of International School of Panama on November 15th. Search Associates was proud to partner with Director of NEASC Jeff Bradley as well as Viki Stiebert, Head of School at International School of Panama, for hosting the special one day event.
This year’s job fair was held at the Sheraton Grand Panama Hotel, a convenient 15-minute drive from Panama City’s airport. The hotel rests beside the waterfront, providing a picturesque backdrop for recruiters and candidates to network and interview. Many candidates secured a new international job, and for all, this exciting weekend was an opportunity to learn about the diverse schools from around Latin America and beyond and connect with other passionate educators!
