Benefits for Foreign Hired Teachers

Working at the Columbus School is a unique experience. The rural environment and constant interaction with different cultures living in our institution make this a truly incomparable work place.

The Columbus School offers multiple benefits to both our Colombian and foreign hired teachers with the purpose of making them feel right at home. If you are thinking of pursuing a career with us, please take a moment to read our benefits carefully.

Corporate Plans

We offer corporate plans to all staff in topics such as: cell phones, healthcare and life policies at lower prices than those in the market with the possibility of paying them through payroll deductions. 

Days Off

The School offers 2 personal days and around 11 weeks off during the year (including vacation) and Colombian holidays for academic staff. Administrative support staff have a package of free days during the school year, as well as 15 days of vacation in December.

Housing

The apartments where our foreign hired teachers live are rented directly by the school. The first year of the contract the apartment is chosen by the institution. After this time, the teacher may look for another apartment with recommendations from the school.
The school also provides furniture, household effects and assistance with housing repairs.

Two-year Initial Contract

The school offers a two year initial contract and renewals after the initial contract.

Masters Program in our Campus

Our staff may register for a Master’s Program in Multidisciplinary Studies from Buffalo State University at SUNY right here at our own campus! The program is substantially subsidized by the school for staff members.

Medical Coverage

Foreign hired staff are covered by a Colombian medical plan. The school also offers an insurance plan with international emergency coverage, which includes: doctor appointments, hospitalization and preventive dental care.

The School will offer you a reduced tuition fee at The Columbus School for up two children.

The school pays travel expenses in coach from the closest international airport to Medellín and a return trip at the end of the original two-year contract.

The School provides an increase in the relocation bonus upon renewal of the contract of USD$2,500 for the third, USD$2,000 the fourth and USD$1,500 for the fifth year.

The school offers a USD $2,000 bonus if the teacher makes a commitment for two more years after the initial contract.

Every year, the peso salary will be adjusted in an amount determined by the Board of Directors and the Parent Assembly.

In order to improve the communication skills in Spanish, the School offers a 50% discount for Spanish lessons for foreign hired staff.

The Columbus School provides transportation to and from school daily during academic periods along predetermined routes.

At the beginning of the original contract, the equivalent of US$500 will be paid in Colombian Pesos upon arrival in Medellin.

The school will assume the fee of the working visa and also gives you assistance with the process.