Petition for New Visa: Movement to get English Teachers Visas

[mlwalton]

Hola Everyone,

I've been thinking about this quite a bit.  And I realize that it might seem like an insurmountable task to affect foreign policy from the other side of the pond when you're not even a citizen of the country whose policy you want to change but....and it's the nexus of all things for me....you won't know until you try.

So here is what I propose:  I have been looking into who in American gov't. would be the person/entity/department to raise this issue and I could use some help with this as well.

I mentioned somewhere in one of the forums once before how wouldn't it be nice if there were a one year renewable visa for TEFL teachers to go teach English in Spain (or it could even be broader based and be a visa for any EU nation- I'm flexible at this point).  I would like to see what I can do as a conscientious activist minded US citizen to make this happen.  Or even get it considered.

I am not interested in nay-sayers, or dissenting opinions.  I am asking the members of this forum to become activists with me and pursue this idea with me.

So, the first question is where do we start?  I was looking at the State Department.  I was also looking at the US Ambassador to Spain. I do not know the actual logistical and pragmatic functions of an ambassador so I'm not sure if that is an avenue (protocol-wise) worth pursuing.  If anyone can offer research assistance with that issue, that would be a great place to start.  

Next I think the second question would be how to pursue it at a grassroots level, via petition? email and snail mail letter campaign?  What?

Then next we would have to be able to put into precise terms what the visa or parameters thereof rather would entail.

Make no mistake, I am dead serious in pursuing this.  Nothing gets done if you never take any action.  I am prepared and willing to be the \"frontman\" (in quotes because as I'm a woman, I'm not sure if that term is gender specific or general) and I am willing to sign my name use my address whatever, take responsibility, I will do that.  However I need help.  And since this is a site for expatriates, potential expatriates, wanna-be expatriates, etc.... I figured this is the place to start.

Again, I do realize the enormity of this task, but a journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.  So I am asking you to become an activist and help me pursue the creation/inception/implementation of a renewable one year visa for TEFL teachers.

Thank you in advance for your input and support.

Salud!

Michelle

[Megan]

Sounds like a great idea, and one that would certainly help a lot of people.  I'm not sure if we can change Spanish policy, but it doesn't hurt to try, so I'm willing to join the campaign.

You ask about who in the American government could help get this started, but I'm not sure we really need to deal with the American government at all.  I think we need to go to the Spanish government.  I'm just not sure how much influence the State Department or any American politician has over Spain's immigration policy.  For example, a few years ago before I came to Spain I talked to a US politician to see if he could help me get a visa (he's a U.S. congressman and also a good friend of my father).  Anyway, he went to talk to the Spanish Ambassador in D.C. on my behalf to see if there was any way to make it easier for me to get a visa, but it didn't help at all.  I know this isn't the same as what you're saying, but I'm just using it as an example to show that the U.S. government might not be able to help too much.

If you want to start a petition I think we need to send it to Zapatero since it's the Spanish government that decides who gets visas and who doesn't.  And since Zapatero is known for his \"talante\" and his willingness to speak (\"dialogar\") with everyone he just might listen to us.  I imagine the problem will be convincing them that there is a real need for this visa.  They can always say that there are more than enough EU English teachers, so why should they bother having a special TEFL visa.  If we can convince them that non-EU teachers are needed we could have a chance at this.  I believe they give special visas when needed to certain people (like in the agricultural field or other areas where there aren't enough people willing to do the jobs), so theoretically they could create a visa for English teachers if it were needed.

The other obstacle we may encounter could come from the EU.  I've heard that the EU wants to create a common immigration policy, and I know that other EU countries aren't happy with Spain's decision to offer amnesty to immigrants, so it seems that immigration will be getting even tighter in the EU.  I imagine the EU wouldn't have a big problem with offering TEFL visas to Americans if the United States also offered special visas for EU citizens to go teach Spanish, French, German, etc. in the U.S.  After all, it would only be fair that if Americans get to come to the EU to teach English than Europeans should be able to go to the U.S. to teach also.  

I think you're starting a really complicated project, but I guess you never know what can happen if you don't try.  These are just some of my initial thoughts after reading your idea.  Hopefully more people will be willing to help and we can really start trying to figure this out.

[mlwalton]

Thank you Megan.  You offered a new perspective that I hadn't considered.  

Maybe there could be a teacher exchange like the student exchange program.  So then I will take a look to see what entity/institution/government body/whoever regulates foreign exchange students.  And anyone else who's interested and might be able to shed some light on which direction to pursue please do so.

I was thinking too that the Ambassador may be able to offer insight on how to approach the Spanish government....you know what might be the best angle....i.e. trying to forge better U.S. and Spain(and/or Europe) relations etc....or good will with an exchange program.

I like the idea of a teacher exchange program, although, the only immediate draw-back might be that they would want people with X amount of college education or degrees under their belt, something more than just a TEFL certification....still that's no reason not to pursue it....it's just more motivation for me to finish my Bachelor's

Ok this is a good start.  Yes hopefully more people will be willing to jump in the fray and we can hash this thing out.

Salud!

Michelle  

[mlwalton]

Here's an update:

I contacted Senator Richard G. Lugar's office.  He is the Chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee.  I was directed by Caitlin in his office to leave a voice-mail message for a Mr. Paul Foldi, which I've done.

As it turns out, Senator Bill Nelson (FL) is also on the committee and as I am a constituent of Sentor Nelson's I sent him an e-mail explaining my query....so we shall see what happens next.

Salud!

Michelle Save the :siesta:

[methdxman]

I think this is a great idea and I believe that contacting a Senator or Ambassador to Spain is the best way to get something done.

Yeah, it seriously wouldn't hurt the Spanish Economy at all to have American teachers in there.  Korea has a special visa for English teachers, although I suspect that more people would want to relocate to Spain than to Korea(and Korea pays a lot more), but it still shouldn't be a problem.
 

[RebeccaG]

Michelle --

You go girl! You bring up an interesting issue...one that I had bantered about with Tony when we took over the administration of the café.

I will ask around some of my contacts to see what they say, although I will admit that my more influential contacts are stronger on the other side of the puddle (in the States) than in Spain. There might be someone here I can talk to as well... will get to it over the next couple of days and will post back as well.

Cheers!
R

P.S. I don't think tackling foreign policy and trying to effect change is an insurmountable task... it's simply a question of getting audience with the right person. Does anyone believe in the theory of 6 degrees of separation? I do!    

[mlwalton]

Thanks for the support guys!

The following is a list of Senators on the Foreign Relations Committee.  I have included links for you to click on their respective names to their individual web sites.  Each site has a link for contacting the Senator.  

Senator Richard G. Lugar, Chairman
Senator Chuck Hagel, Nebraska
Senator Lincoln Chafee, Rhode Island
Senator George Allen, Virginia
Senator Norm Coleman, Minnesota
Senator George V. Voinovich, Ohio
Senator Lamar Alexander, Tennessee
Senator John E. Sununu, New Hampshire
Senator Lisa Murkowski, Alaska
Senator Mel Martinez, Florida
Senator Joseph R. Biden, Ranking Minority Member, Delaware
Senator Paul S. Sarbanes, Maryland
Senator Christopher J. Dodd, Connecticut
Senator John F. Kerry, Massachusetts
Senator Russell D. Feingold, Wiscosnin
Senator Barbara Boxer, California
Senator Bill Nelson, Florida
Senator Barack Obama, Illinois

Below is the text of the email that I sent yesterday to Senator Bill Nelson.  You may copy and paste and edit for the Senator of your choice to send him or her an email.

It's time to take some action.

Dear Senator Nelson,

I am writing to you because I saw that you are on the Foreign Relations Committee. As such I thought you might be able to provide me with some guidance with a particular matter.  Please allow me to explain.

I am a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certified teacher and also a moderator of a web site for expatriates in Spain.  www.expatriatecafe.com  Americans, myself included, that want to go to Spain to live/work have a huge disadvantage compared to EU Nationals.  It is practically impossible to obtain a visa to live/work in Spain to teach English.

There are many young adults that pursue TEFL certificates in the hopes of seeing the world and supporting themselves by teaching English.  Great idea, travel, see the world, experience different cultures, broaden your horizons, sounds great doesn't it? 

The problem is, with the ever-increasing threat of terrorism, immigration to a foreign country has become more and more difficult. 

There are a lot of Americans living abroad that are living/working (teaching English) illegally and live with the constant fear of deportation.

My idea: why not have an exchange program for teachers like there is for students, or even a renewable one year visa for teaching English abroad.

I understand that the latter would have to be offered from the Spanish government.  I don't even know where to begin on that one.

However, the exchange program I thought I would start with the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

I contacted Senator Lugar's office, and spoke with Caitlin, who thought I ought to leave a message for a Mr. Paul Foldi, which I've done.

Then I decided to take a look at the web site again to see who else is on the committee and lo and behold there you were on the list.  (I voted for you too. =) )

Anyway,  I'm not sure even how to go about pursuing the idea of a teacher exchange program or a renewable one-year visa for TEFL teachers, but I am willing to work very earnestly at a grassroots level whether through signed petitions or e-mail, and written letter campaigning.  I am also willing to do the research to structure an actual proposal, providing numbers for economic impact, etc...

I'm just not sure which is the path to pursue.  Could you please offer some advice on how to proceed?  It would be greatly appreciated.  Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

Michelle L. Walton

So far I have not received a response either from Mr. Foldi (voice mail message) or from Senator Nelson.  However, it has only been one day, not even a full 24 hours.  So we shall see.  

I think that if we contact every member of the Foreign Relations Committee individually, we might just get someone's attention to take it to the next step (whatever that would be - at this point I've no clue about what specific action to take).

If you do choose to get involved and get active, then please post here, what you have done and whom you have contacted.  

I feel good about this guys.  I'm thinking that once we have a plan of action organized it can be taken to TEFL training schools and colleges and universities to get other people involved and get their support.

Salud!

Michelle Save the :siesta:

p.s. first the visa then the siesta....the possibilities are endless
p.p.s. obviously take out the part where I mention being from Florida, TEFL certified (unless of course you are) and a moderator too  

[Shiloh]

(I voted for you too. =) )

Nice touch  :lol:

So far I have not received a response either from Mr. Foldi (voice mail message) or from Senator Nelson.

This shouldn´t surprise anyone. He probably has a million things to do....like collecting money from lobbyists in exchange for what they want, meeting with celebrities for no reason, having dinner with other political figures to compare who gets away with more abuses, etc. etc. :angry:

The e mail you sent was nice, but I think you should have put a dollar figure in there and negotiate from there.  

[mlwalton]

The e mail you sent was nice, but I think you should have put a dollar figure in there and negotiate from there.

A dollar amount representing what?  Tax revenue for the Spanish government? Possible revenue to be gained for the travel industry?

I could use some help with research for just that kind of thing.  Shiloh, you want to volunteer?

[Shiloh]

A dollar amount representing what? Tax revenue for the Spanish government? Possible revenue to be gained for the travel industry?

A dollar amount representing the bribe you are offering to get what you want....like any other lobbyist.

I could use some help with research for just that kind of thing. Shiloh, you want to volunteer?

No thanks, I already have papers.  
 

[mlwalton]

Here's an update:

I phoned Senator Bill Nelson's office to find out the turn-around time for correspondence.  I was told it takes about four weeks.  I told the office that they may want to speak to their webmaster to create an auto response letter so that you know that your email was received etc....

Also, as I had not heard back from Mr. Paul Foldi, I phoned Senator Lugar's office again and this time was instructed to leave a message for Mark Helmke who handles public diplomacy and exchange programs and things \"of that nature\" quoting Kristan (whom I spoke with this morning).

Listen, what we are trying to accomplish here is no easy task.  We are talking about possible legislation, which could take a year or more to get through, so I don't want people to get discouraged or give up because of that. We are in the beginning stages here and we're not even sure where to start or what path to pursue.  At this point, the collective \"we\" is relatively small.  So if you think this is a good idea, let's get the word out, and get more people involved.  There are only so many calls to Washington DC I can make at work before someone's going to notice....if you catch my drift

Like I said in the opening post, a journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.  Nay-sayers and dissenting opinions have no place in this thread.  I am emboldened by your posts here and I hope you feel the same.

Anyone else have any other ideas?  Megan you mentioned a friend of your father's is a Congressman, any chance of seeking advice from him?  Anyone else have friends in high places?

And yes most definitely Rebecca I believe in six degrees of separation   You never know who could be the one to help you out.  I'm feeling amped now, now that my morning coffee has kicked in :cafe:  

Salud!

Michelle Save the   :siesta:

[mlwalton]

So then Shiloh you were just being a smart-ass then, eh? [_[

A dollar amount representing the bribe you are offering to get what you want....like any other lobbyist.

You know, you might be the perfect person to do some research on your end....since you live there, you've got your papers, you speak Catalan and Spanish, maybe you'll reconsider?

[mlwalton]

Hola Everyone,

So ok, I went back to the State Department's web site and I found this **CLICK HERE**

I haven't had the chance to read through all of it yet, but it looks as though the ground work has already been laid down and that the current program would just have to be expanded to included people who are going to get TEFL certified as well as those who already are [certified] and just want to teach...rather than the administrative/business aspect.

Thoughts?

Salud!

Michelle Save the :siesta:  

[Shiloh]

So then Shiloh you were just being a smart-ass then, eh?

You should know better than to expect anything more, Michelle.

 

[mlwalton]

Ok, so I need a volunteer,     if you can make phone calls, write emails, letters, etc... and do follow-up...that sort of thing then come on down, You are the Next contestant on the Price is Right je, je, je   I was just trying to sound motivational....

Anyway, since I'm pursuing the Senate on Foreign Relations Committee, it would be great if someone would step in and pursue the State Department.  I don't know where to start, so if you've got any ideas, let's hear it!

My best friend suggested the State Department as a possible avenue, and after finding that program for TEFL trainers, I think she might be right....so any takers?

Salud!

Michelle Save the :siesta:  

[El Manco]

hey michelle

well i find this fascinating, since i've been thinking of entering the state department's foreign service after i get my master's at nyu in madrid (i'm getting tefl-certified in august and somehow plan on jamming teaching into my life too).

Now, since i leave for the Promised Land in a little less than three months, combined with my retarded work schedule that sends me to bed at 9pm on fridays and saturdays, i don't want to make you any promises i can't keep....

but I am gonna look all this state dept. stuff over, and i'll let you know if i find anything useful.

plus, while i'm at it, i guess i might as well send both senators nelson and martinez (how the hell'd he get on a committe already?) a little note, hey why not

OK, i'll be in touch!

[mlwalton]

Thanks El Manco....it's good to hear from you....forgot you were in FLA too.  Hey, you just might wind up being the guy on the inside later on   one never knows where the path might lead you....

Salud!

Michelle Save the :siesta:  

[mlwalton]

I have another idea....for all the people currently enrolled at colleges/universities, what about starting a petition  - either for the TEFL teacher exchange or improving visa status for Americans abroad (not sure still which avenue to pursue - so I'm open to suggestions)....

ideas?  anyone?

Salud!

Michelle Save the :siesta:  

[shmontgomery]

Hey Michelle,

I like what you are trying to do here.  Don't give up!  I actually had a friend that jumped through the political hoops and had a bill passed in the state of Florida (unrelated - had to do with taxes and home ownership).  He started out the way you did and wasn't making much headwave.  He ended up with a blow horn and petitioners at a government building, I'm not sure for how many days...maybe weeks  :blink: , but he accomplished his objective.

Don't lose sight of the forest in spite of the trees.

If any of your tasks require action in the georgraphic region of Atlanta, let me know and I'll try and give you a hand.

Good Luck,

Monty

[mlwalton]

Hi Monty!

Thank you for the support .  

I would love some help!  I'm not sure what could be done at a local level in Atlanta....but if you come up with something, let's hear it.

On a general level I need some direction here, some brainstorming about which path to follow.  There seems to be no clear road here.  

If you have the time and are willing, you could call around to some college/university exchange programs and nose around a bit and see what you find....maybe drum up some interest with a department head or an administrator someone who might be able to offer a lead?

I'm just throwing it out there, and as I feel that I am floundering around a bit here (I think it's always that way in the beginning stages)  I'm trying to throw out as big a net as possible.  Anything you can offer is great.  Thanks

Salud!

Michelle Save the :siesta:  

[mlwalton]

Does anyone have any updates?

[mlwalton]

Hola Todos!

I have an update.  I received an email from Senator Bill Nelson, that he appreciated my ideas regarding an International Teacher Exchange, and that as he is a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee that he will address my ideas if it comes up....so I'm not quite sure how to accomplish that....bringing it to the attention of the entire Foreign Relations committee.

I'm thinking perhaps an actual signed petition maybe with a letter and a proposal?  Ideas?  Comments?

Salud!

Michelle Save the  :siesta:  

[mlwalton]

Hola gente!

Again, I've been at it trying to think of a way to bring this idea of mine to the Senate on Foreign Relations Committee (to save on typing hereafter referred to as SOFRC)...here's what I'm thinking...

I am thinking about starting a petition, to be posted on a web site for people to \"sign\".  Since what I'm proposing is not an initiative to be on a ballot, I don't think there is any problem with not having actual signatures on paper.  So I've been talking to some of the IT guys here at work and they've helped me to develop at least this much in my head...

A web based data base, typical privacy policy (not looking to sell anyone's info to anyone else for any reason whatsoever....just want to teach English in Spain, legally.) where people can submit there \"signature\" I'm thinking first and last names, city and state, and a check box to say that they are registered voters (don't care about political party affiliations).

Then I'm thinking that the way to get the word out would be to network with college and university language and linguistics departments ( not sure who else to send to, please offer suggestions) via sending them a short blurb about what we (well, I don't want to say \"I\" because I am hoping to get some of you involved to help make this happen) are proposing and the link to the web site.  

Then the goal would be to keep promoting the proposal and get as many \"signatures\" as possible (is 100,000 possible?).

The next step, I should think would be to lobby all the members of the SOFRC and urge them to visit the site and see for themselves.  

Then I'm thinking that the next time that the SOFRC has a calendared session to meet, that we would print out the database (hopefully after amassing thousands and thousands of names ) and send it to them in Washington DC to make a further statement and a show of how much interest there is and would be for such a program to be in place for Teachers of English as a Foreign Language.

Whew!  So what do you think?  I need your opinions, comments, suggestions, advice, help!  I need help!   Alone, I can't do much, but together we can make an impact.  

Salud!

Michelle Save the :siesta:  

[tonytorero]

I am thinking about starting a petition, to be posted on a web site for people to "sign".  Since what I'm proposing is not an initiative to be on a ballot, I don't think there is any problem with not having actual signatures on paper.

Hey Michelle. Have you heard of PetitionOnline.com? It's a free online petition hosting service. May be ideal for what you're trying to accomplish.

As for me, you can count on my support!  B)  

   

[mlwalton]

TONY!!!  OMG I Looooooooooooooove you :love:  :love:  :love:

You are Brilliant!  That site is perfect!!

Ok, then so what we need to do now is develop the language of the petition.  Unfortunately, my laptop, the bbl, (bad-boy-lapper ...yes I actually named my laptop:D) has died, may he rest in peace and as such, my computer usage is limited and borrowed (i.e. computer at work, and the occassional use of my mom's laptop) so I could really use some help here with research.

The type of research I'm looking for?  Well anything that could be presented the SOFRC as a positive, anything from statistics of Americans going overseas to teach, articles siting the build up of diplomatic relations, anything to support the ideas of people (students of foreign languages) learning the language and having the most beneficial experience from a native speaker (Remember, this goes two ways not just American English teachers teaching abroad, but also Spaniards teaching Spanish, French teaching French, Italians teaching Italian and so on and so on - we are talking about an International Teacher Exchange)

Anything.

In fact, if you are currently enrolled in a college or university, perhaps you could write an op-ed piece for your school newspaper and then have that as an \"article\" to be sited as a source.

I won't be able to buy a new 'puter 'til June   but the good news is, I'm buying the f*ck-off of all gaming laptops (je, je, je - I'm a serious pc gamer - big computer geek - and I'm ok with that ) the new Dell XPS....ah but I digress....

So I won't have a great deal of opportunity to find all this info myself.

So for those of you that have responded positively (Tony, don't even given it a second thought, you've got your hands full already ) but for anyone with time on their hands and an available computer at their finger tips, your help would be greatly appreciated.

Also, as I have an account with the evil cable company Comcast (my ISP) the one good thing about them is I get something like 25megs of web space for a personal web site, so I don't have to pay for web hosting.

Ah, Tony, let me just say again, thank you, thank you, thank you!  I had ideas that were going to cost me money that I didn't have and now I don't have to worry.  Brilliant!

So thank you in advance to all those who are gearing up to participate!

Salud!

Michelle Save the :siesta:  

[mad_hiker]

Michelle,

I am new to the post (moving here in July with my wife who actually has a job transfer with her company) and I am in the process of looking for work.  Like many others, I am TOEFL certified and trying to find something teaching English.

I like your idea about writing Senators to try and get something going on a teacher exchange or work visa for teaching English.  

Here is a letter I wrote to my Senator, Barbara Boxer.  (you may recognize some of the verbage!)

Dear Senator Boxer,

I am writing to you because I saw that you are on the
Foreign Relations Committee. As such I thought you
might be able to provide me with some guidance with a
particular matter.  Please allow me to explain.

I am a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language)
certified teacher and I am moving to Spain in July.
There are many Americans who want to teach English in
Spain, but it is practically impossible to obtain a
visa to live/work in Spain to teach English.

Americans, myself included, who want to go to Spain to
live/work have a huge disadvantage compared to EU
Nationals.  In my job search so far, I have been told
more than once \"if you had a work visa, we would hire
you.\"
 
There are many young adults who pursue TEFL
certificates in the hopes of seeing the world and
supporting themselves by teaching English.  Great
idea, travel, see the world, experience different
cultures, broaden your horizons, sounds great doesn't
it? 

The problem is, with the ever-increasing threat of
terrorism, immigration to a foreign country has become
more and more difficult. 

There are a lot of Americans living abroad who are
living/working (teaching English) illegally and live
with the constant fear of deportation.

I have been communicating with many other Americans in
the same situation and there is an idea forming: Why
not have an exchange program for teachers like there
is for students, or even a renewable one year visa for
teaching English abroad?

I understand that the latter would have to be offered
from the Spanish government.  I don't even know where
to begin on that one.

However, the exchange program I thought I would start
with the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

Several people I know have contacted their Senators
and Representatives and we are trying to get the word
out.  As a resident and teacher in Contra Costa county
for the last four years, I thought I would contact
you. (on a side note, you are very popular with my
family and my co-workers and we voted for you!)   

Anyway,  I'm not sure even how to go about pursuing
the idea of a teacher exchange program or a renewable
one-year visa for TEFL teachers, but I am willing to
help work at a grassroots level whether through signed
petitions or e-mail, and written letter campaigning.
I also know people who are willing to do the research
to structure an actual proposal, providing numbers for
economic impact, etc...

I'm just not sure which is the path to pursue.  Could
you please offer some advice on how to proceed?  It
would be greatly appreciated.  Thank you for your time
and attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

Mitch Madigan
Pleasant Hill, CA

I sent this on May 13 and when I get a response I will share it.  

-Mitch
 

[mlwalton]

Wow!!  Thank you Mitch, that's fantastic!  Just so you know when I emailed Senator Nelson, I phoned his office to follow-up and inquired as to the response time regarding the email I sent and his office told me at least four weeks.  It's a long process....*sigh*  But we musn't give up.

I just found out, that my father actually used to know and work with Senator Bill Nelson, so I'm going to write another letter and do a bit of name dropping and see if that gets me any further.

Again, if there is anyone out there that would be interested in such a visa or teacher exchange program, we could really use all the help we can get.  If many requests come in to the SOFRC then it might just get enough attention to merit their consideration.

So anyone willing to write an email or letter, I'll list the senators below.  Feel free to use the text from the email I posted in this thread above.

Chairman Richard G. Lugar
Ranking Member, Joseph R. Biden
Chuck Hagel, Nebraska
Lincoln Chafee, Rhode Island
George Allen, Virginia
Norm Coleman, Minnesota
George V. Voinovich, Ohio
Lamar Alexander, Tennessee
John E. Sununu, New Hampshire
Lisa Murkowski, Alaska
Mel Martinez, Florida
Paul S. Sarbanes , Maryland
Christopher J. Dodd, Connecticut
John Kerry, Massachusetts
Russell D. Feingold, Wisconsin
Barbara Boxer, California
Bill Nelson, Florida
Barack Obama, Illinois

[zorrasabia]

Hi all,
I support your initiative, Michele, even though I'm English! I campaign against cruelty to animals, and have sufferted many highs and lows, over the past thirty years!  The political system in my country is, often, seemingly bizxarre and just when we've thought we were at the point of getting somewhere, things have usually taken a shap downhill turn!
I just keep in mind the cause for which I lobby, and, like many colleagues, have never abandoned the struggle, regardless of set backs!
So - way to go, girl!
 

[zorrasabia]

Hi again! Sorry, Michele, but the last post just vanished, before I'd finished writing it! Next thing, it appeared on the board - I apologise for the many typos! I saw several, when I read the message above, but hadn't had the chance to preview, before it took off!
 

[zorrasabia]

Hi again Michele,

Something's wrong, here, as my 'posts' keep vanishing, before I've finished typing - I swear I've not 'posted' them, half completed!
Sorry for the typos, above - it disappeared prior to my previewing and then reappeared here! Another's now somewhere in cyberspace, I think!

I'd intended to point out that in Mitch's message to his Senator, he identified 'terrorism' as the problem, re. visas for working in the E.U!

 I think the real issue is more about trade systems within the E.U.  and the decision to permit citizens from any E.U. country to choose to work in another, without visas. as part of an integration strategy.

So far, that's now 27 countries and counting!  Borders are being opened up, which is a good thing, but obviously, workers from recent E.U. member states are likely to be prepared to work for lower wages, which is why we in England have many farm workers from Poland and other former Eastern European countries!

Our health service, in my city, now employs many nurses from Spain, which has caused problems for their home country, which had funded most of their training!

British workers won't apply for poorly paid  farm labouring jobs, but bosses don't need to offer more money when new E.U. citizens are happy to work for peanuts! One Polish worker claimed, recently, that he still earns three times what he'd earn at home, on an equivalent dairy farm!

Regards,
Zorrasabia.

[mlwalton]

Thank you for the encouragement.   I can use all I can get.  I agree with what you said about the trade and money aspect of the immigration situation.  The US government doesn't seem to pursue anything lately that doesn't have some sort of monetary gain in the line of sight some where in the future...(for all politicos out there, I promise you, I'm not trying to start a political debate here....just expressing a bit of my own cynicism )

Salud!

Michelle   [---with two l's  
Save the :siesta:  

[julia888]

Hi Michelle

Me again, Ive posted mad tonight, so forgive me if I'm doubling up. I'd really like to know how I go about obtaining a work permit so I can get over there and teach English.
Also, is it best for me to do a TEFOL course in Sydney (currently home) or in Spain?
look forward to hearing from you
jules

[mlwalton]

Hi Julia,

Sorry to have taken so long to respond.  The best place for you to start is the Spanish Consulate General's office to find about getting a visa or work permit.  I don't know what the Australian laws are with regard to foreign visas.

And as far as where to take your course, there are a great deal of discussions in the Experience vs. Education forum that you may want to check out.

Buena suerte!  And let us know how it works out.  


In OTHER news....

People, we will not give up!  I recently found out that my father had a working relationship with Senator Bill Nelson and actually helped get him elected (my father is a retired labor union leader - he worked with his PAC director and gave his support and that of his union for the Senator's campaign)  

anyhooo..... you might be saying what does this have to do with the price of rice in China?  Absolutely nothing, but it may help in getting the Senator's attention and possibly get a little bit more assistance in getting our idea of an International Teacher Exchange Program to the floor of the Senate on Foreign Relations Committee.

I just phoned his office (with a renewed sense of \"yeah, this can totally happen\") spoke with Ryan from his office who gave me the name of Bridgette Walsh, the Education LA (Legislative Assistant) - who is as I type this on the floor with the Senator....so I left her a voice mail message, explaining that I've sent an email, etc...did a little name dropping with my dad's name and that of his former PAC Director, etc.... anyway, we shall see if this gets me any further....

My next step is to write another letter, this time I'll do the name dropping in the letter and I'll send it snail mail.

I urge you to get active and contact any one of the senators that are on the foreign relations committee.  You can use the same language that I used, which is posted in this thread.  I have painstakingly supplied the email addresses for all the senators on the SOFRC in a previous post in this thread.

The reason I'm so hot about this right now, is because this week the SOFRC is going to confirm the US Ambassador to Spain (along with a bunch of others) but at the very least, Spain will be on the minds of the SOFRC even if only in the back of their minds.

We musn't give up!  I told you all in the beginning that this was going to be a long process (did I mention arduous and possibly tedious as well ) but completely worth it in the end!  Just think about it - the possibility of being able to teach legally in Spain, not getting screwed by unscrupulous employers that take advantage of illegals, not having to worry about getting deported or not being able to find an apartment because of being illegal....

I ask you, Wouldn't that be great???
 I'm doing my best cheerleading effort

So go forth, write a senator on the SOFRC, Go FIGHT Win!


oops sorry!  I had a momentary flash back to my junior high cheerleading days....

We CAN[/color] do this!!!

Salud!
Michelle Save the  :siesta:

[Love2Teach]

Hi Michelle,

Thanks for putting a fight up for all those that want to teach English in Spain.  I'll email the senators with the info you posted.

I'm still in the states (Sacramento, CA), but will be in Madrid at the end of July to take a CELTA course and teach after that.  If you need help with anything else, please let me know.  

Thanks,
Kristy    

[mlwalton]

YEEE HAAAW!  Thank you Kristy!  That's exactly what I'm talking about!  More people must get involved.  Thank you Kristy and buena suerte in Madrid!

Salud!
Michelle Save the  :siesta:  

[mlwalton]

Hola Todos,

Just to give you all an update:  In addition to the email that I've sent I got two of my friends to send emails, one to Senator Boxer and the other to Senator Nelson as they live in Cali and FL respectively....

It was easy peasy for them both; I sent them the \"script\" if you will, and they edited out the personal referrences that I made and sent them via the web forms that both senators have on their respective web sites....

The way I figure it, the more people that write in to the members on the SOFRC (Senate On Foreign Relations Committee) the better.  

So let's get others involved.  Even if your friends themselves aren't interested in teaching abroad, they can help us all by creating a voice to call attention to our little idea.  And it takes less than 2 minutes - no exaggeration - to fill out the web form that the senators have on their individual web sites.

To quote Churchill, \"Never, Never, Never, Never give up.\"

Salud!
Michelle Save the  :siesta:  

[Bobby]

Hi Michelle:

I am your Co-Worker in NMB.  

Thanks for putting a fight up for all those that want to teach English in Spain.

I am always of the belief that \"Language is the hallmark of an educated person.  To say something efficiently is the province of the scientist; to say something beautifully is the province of the poet.\"   Even better if you could say it in many languages!

You (and others) should be able to spead your knowledge of the English language to others in Spain and perhaps elsewhere so that \"they\" too  will eventually be able to speak efficiently as a scientist or beautifully as a poet........... in the English language!

I think that anyone with such a gift of language to share should be allowed to do so and stay on a long term Visa whether it be in Spain or in any other country.  Education of all types should be considered top priority not only in the U.S. but in other countries as well.   Your stay abroad shouldn't be hampered by worrying whether or not you will be arrested or deported beyond your alloted time.  Teaching under such conditions is not fruitful and would not benefit you or your students.  

You told me about this site and I had to write to say that I agree with you and I admire your strength and tenacity.    I wish you all the best in your endeavor. I hope my e-mail will be sent and seen by the \"Politcians\" at large to know that there are many that support you in this grass roots effort.

Sincerely,

Bob M

[mlwalton]

Thank you Bob BIG HUUUUUGGGG...

In case all of you are wondering....Bob and I work together and I had asked him to check out this thread and (providing that it was something he agreed with) to maybe pop a quick note to one of the FL senators on the SOFRC.  

I want to thank you Bob for your support.  It means a great deal, especially knowing that you had to register in order to post.   :wub:  :wub:

So it just goes to show you gente, that you never know who might be willing to stand with you.  Imagine if half the people who have viewed this post, sent an email to a senator on the SOFRC and told two friends who also sent emails, who then told two more friends who decided to send emails, and on and on....imagine the impact that that would have on the members of the SOFRC.  It truly is about the power of the people.

Like I've said in the beginning of this thread and pretty much throughout, I don't know if I'm starting at the beginning of the process or jumping in the middle, but I think that none of that matters because I am taking action.  Action is the key.  And action can be as simple and as easy as filling out a web form.

Go Teachers Go!!

This concludes my motivational cheerleading for the day!  Have a great weekend everyone!  

Salud!
Michelle Save the  :siesta:  

[mlwalton]

I've just read this posted on another thread posted by Spain212:

I was in Seville looking for ANY work. I ended up with a ton of tutoring students (put up one flyer - get 100 calls) but no real work was coming through at all. But I'm American and that was just a huge hinderance. I kept hearing this story about how this one American guy got his papers through IH but that it was a nightmare and they swore they'd NEVER EVER EVER do it again. I heard this same guys story from like 3 schools. Of course, people DO get lucky. They do. I just wasn't one of the lucky ones. For Americans its a very very slow process of building up hours. I think people who it really works out for literally stay for 3 or 4 years and finally have a real schedule.

Wouldn't it be great if we (Americans) had a one-year renewable visa, or a Teachers' Exchange program so that going abroad to teach English wouldn't be soooo difficult?

[sticky]

I am the SPAINTUTOR :-) and I would love to get a petition rolling on my website. Would anyone like to start a petition team with me? We could go to academies, put up flyers, hunt down professors and get them to sign the petition. Maybe we could even make some t-shirts, et cetera, and hit the streets like Green Peace does? We could have Two petitions: one for teachers, and another for Spaniards who agree that American or other non-EU English teachers should be able  to get a special status here.

Who's with me? Anyone want to meet in Madrid about this? I am willing to pay for T-Shirts and materials  and to organize a team.

For starters,  we need to write the language of  the petition--any takers?

Phil

[mlwalton]

Hey Gang,

Anyone have any updates?

Salud!
Michelle Save the  :siesta:  

[zorrasabia]

Hi Michelle,
Good luck with you efforts! I've posted here, in favour of your plan,  albeit as a U.K. citizen, hoping, soon, to be in Spain, to begin teaching, if I can get a job!

I believe that most successful arrangements between the E.U. and the U.S. appear to be reciprocal! What is the current situation for E.U. citizens, of all ages and nationality, wishing to teach in your country?  (I'm assuming you're hoping for a general 'permission' to be granted in Spain, rather than a 'limited places' programme, only?)

I would love to teach in the U.S. once I've spent some time in Spain. I've seen several jobs advertised on the net, but  all the adverts have specified that I must have a valid U.S. work visa, prior to applying!  
I've been told that I can only get one, if I'm the only possible person able to do the job, (meaning no suitable applicants from within the U.S!), which must be proven by the would be employer!

Is that your understanding?  If so, I think you'd need to ask your senators to relax that requirement, alongside your efforts to persuade the E.U. to allow U.S.  teachers in, legally.

I'd support such a balanced approach - it would ensure equality of opportunity, across both our continents, for enthusiastic English teachers!

Regards,
Zorrasabia.

 

[shmontgomery]

Hey Michelle,

I figured you would have posted something by now if you've heard anything in regards to this, but thought I would go ahead and ask.

Monty  

[mlwalton]

Hey Monty and Everyone,

I haven't responded because sometimes I get tired of seeing my name as the last post so I hadn't responded.....

I am trying to get the attention of anyone on the SOFRC....I don't know how else to go about it other than having anyone and everyone I know, call, write, and/or harass the senators on the committee to bring the issue to the floor.  I have no other better idea.  I am open for suggestions.  

So if anyone out there has any ideas, please lay it on me.   Don't give up people!  Tenacity and perseverance wins!

Salud!

Michelle Save the :siesta:  

[mikeschneider]

hola...

I have a friend named Michelle who studied abroad in Valencia for a semester and desperately wants to go back and live and teach English. She's been in contact with everyone she possibly knows, about visas and employment and has even considered getting married to a random Spaniard just to be able to live and teach in Spain. Unfortunately though she has to face the reality that it's just not possible for her to do it legally. And she's not willing to take the chance of going over and not getting enough hours to afford to live. She tried it once before and couldn't make enough to stay.

Her experience began about a year before mine, as it looked like I was heading down the same path. I've posted this before on other threads but I'll post it here too. I know this is no solution but at least it might help to get SOME people the legal ability to live and work in Spain. I was born in this country and so were both of my parents. For that reason I did not think it ws possible for me to have any possibility of other citizenship than the U.S. But, after doing some research, and submitting tons of paperwork, and waiting and waiting, I will have my Irish citizenship and passport in a few months which will allow me to live and work in any EU country. So if anyone has ancestors originating from an EU country (a majority of people do, I would think), you may be able to receive dual citizenship through that country. Here is a link where that topic is discussed:

http://www.richw.org/dualcit/


For the specific country related to your own family, try using google and typing in 'dual citizenship (country)'. So for Italt for example I would go to google.com and type 'dual citizenship italy'.

If anyone has any questions about the process, feel free to contact me.

Wish I could do more.

»mike«

[zorrasabia]

Hi Michelle,
I'm sad that you didn't respond to my message, dated July 30th - I'd asked whether you were going to plead the case for reciprocal opportunities for E.U. citizens to teach, unhindered by visa requirements, in the U.S?
Obviously, if your wish to be legal in Spain were to be granted, it's only fair that equal treatment should be on offer to us, (I'm English), in your country!
 

[zorrasabia]

Hi Michelle,
Sorry, but the usual bug in this system has caught me again! My post vanished, before being completed and then flew here!
 

[zorrasabia]

Michelle,
I don't believe it - this is my third try at finishing this message, before it disappears, to turn up on the board! No idea what causes this! Apologies!

E.U. work opportunities operate just like those of the U.S surely  - citizens first?   Do you think the U.S. would be prepared to change its draconian visa restrictions, for E.U. English teachers, in the way that you'd wish the E.U. to do, for yourself?     If only.....!
After all, your excellent points in favour of such opportunities in Spain are just as valid for E.U. citizens wishing to teach in the U.S. - aren't they?

I'd love to teach in Spain first but would then really love to work in the U.S. - that's still seriously difficult for me, a non - U.S. citizen to achieve!  :angry:

I still hope you're successful, along with everyone else here,  in achieving your goal, all the same!  

The more we all integrate, even temporarily, the fewer international conflicts!!

Regards,
Zorrasabia.

 

[mlwalton]

Hi there,

I missed the question before....I apologize for not responding earlier....

So my idea is to get a petition together and collect signatures and present said petition to the SOFRC.  The State Department already has a Teacher exchange program and my thought is that that program could simply be expanded to include TEFL teachers.

The truth is, I don't have any guidence about how to persue this matter.  I have no idea if I'm following protocol or if I'm approaching it from the best angle going down the right avenue or what.

I have asked repeatedly for advise from all walks of life, and so far, no one else seems to know what to do either....

I really think the Teacher Exchange is the way to go, because there is something aready in place.  I don't know how a British citizen might come here (US) to teach English via the Teacher Exchange premise, but perhaps it could be expanded to cover other areas of study as well....because I see it as an opportunity to get teachers from EU countries to come here and teach their respective languages, culture, history, etc....

I haven't done anything recently to fuel the fire...(got busy with other stuff  :rolleyes: ) but I appreciate your encouragement ....I need it.  


If you (or anyone reading this for that matter) has advise or suggestions or wants to get involved, please, PLEASE, I'm so open to hear it  

And also if anyone has any idea about writing a petition....I could use the help.

Salud!
Michelle Save the :siesta:

[mlwalton]

Hola gente!

Ok, so it's been a while since I last visited this issue.  Life has a way of happening whilst you're busy making plans....

Anyhoo, I'm ready to pick up the banner and start running once again.  I am going to post a petition on the web site PetitionOnline.com and I need to work out the text, the wording of the petition itself and as such I am asking for your advise and/or suggestions.  

Here is what I plan on saying so far (please keep in mind that I am at the moment of typing this post writing the ensuing proposed language completely extemporaneously so if it sucks....please be kind in your critique   )  All constructive criticism is welcome and invited:

To the Senate on Foreign Relations Committee:
Your Honors,

We submit to you the proposal of an exchange program for Teachers of English as a Foreign Language, to teach abroad.

The proposed exchange program would actually be an expansion of an existing program that is operated by the State Department, and subsequently could be a sister program run concurrently.

We propose the following:  Individuals that have been certified to teach English as a foreign language (qualifying certifications: TEFL, CELTA, TESOL)
are eligible to teach in a foreign country in agreement for one year, legally, paying taxes to the country of employ, with the option to extend annually on a performance basis.  In exchange, teachers of foreign languages (with their respective certifications and qualifications) are invited to teach their native language in the US, legally.

There are thousands of Americans every year that make the journey abroad, get certified and then teach English in their chosen countries, both legally and illegally.  When working illegally in a foreign country, many Americans are subjecting themselves to the exploitation of unscrupulous employers, deportation, etc.

This program would not only go a long way to help foster good will between the US and other foreign nations, but would offer protection to American citizens and foreign nationals wishing to teach abroad.

 

Ok, so that's what I've got so far....so let me know what you think needs to be added, amended or deleted.  

As soon as the language is hashed out, I'm posting the petition.  I have no timeline for this except that I want to do it while I still have the motivation  

I'll of course write the language in a word document and then use spell check and review it more closely for typos before the actual posting of the petition.  So let's hear it, what do you think?

Salud!
Michelle Save the  :siesta: