Almost every educator I know is a little bit shaken right now. In light of the new laws and guidelines recently passed down from the Ministry of Education, companies are making sweeping changes to content, sales models, and in many cases employment rules. All of which has left teachers worried not only about their current jobs but about their side tutoring and online incomes as well. There are a lot of theories floating around but the truth is no one knows what the new laws will mean for teaching in the long term. As such, folks are feeling insecure and helpless. Nevertheless, here are a few things every foreign teacher can do to ensure that they are currently complying with national laws and prepared for whatever the future holds.
- Check your work permit: Far too many educators come to China and sign whatever paperwork is put in front of them. They assume it’s in the company’s best interest to do everything correctly. But if your paperwork is not consistent you will be the one facing the consequences, not the school. In all likelihood, there will be employment checks and verifications in the future so make sure you are in compliance. Scan the QR code on your work card and ensure your job title, employment dates, and all other information is correct and up to date.
- Update your personal files: Make sure any accreditations or certifications are up to date, diplomas are valid, and you have access to photos and or online verifications of all paperwork. If you don’t have them in Beijing, ask a parent or friend back home to send you a photo or scan. You can also reach out to your university if you need paperwork like a diploma or certified transcript reissued. This can sometimes take several weeks so best start the process now.
- Stay informed: Read everything you can from verifiable, reputable sources. This is an evolving situation and things will likely change quickly and often. No one will be on top of everything all the time so you can’t blindly trust the institution you work for to be up to date. Make sure you double-check anything new the school asks of you to ensure it is in line with current guidelines.
- Don’t listen to the gossip: Everyone is entitled to their opinion, but facts are king. Your WeChat friend’s, brother’s, dog walker’s, hairdresser is not a valid source of information. There is going to be a lot of fear-mongering and I suspect more than a few scams. There always are in times of change. Be cautious and verify.
- Build new skills and brush up on old ones: Now is a great time to get a new certification, go back to school for an advanced degree, or explore a new specialty within your field. One thing will always be true: A well-trained teacher with a stellar resume has plenty of options. Make sure you are ready for them when the dust settles.
Overall, stay calm. This is not the end of the world and could actually end up being a good thing. Better educators with good track records and fewer imposters trying to avoid getting “real jobs” are great for everyone, and most importantly the kids. So remember, it’s a change, not a disaster.
KEEP READING: Here We Go Again: Coping With Delayed Back-to-School Dates
Photos: Unsplash
