Expect Excellence | Joining Taipei American School | SY2023-24

OUR MISSION

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Becoming a Member of the TAS Faculty

Welcome from Interim Head of School Evelyne Estey

Introduction to Taiwan

Introduction to Taipei American School

A Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Justice and a Focus on Enduring Personal Well-being

Safeguarding Our Students Academic Program

The Three Divisions: Lower School, Middle School, Upper School Reporting Student Progress

What to Bring to Taiwan and What to Expect

“Learning to Appreciate a Modern Miracle: Taiwan”

Becoming a Member of the TAS Faculty

in a

area of the world.

We seek to hire exemplary teachers who are excited by the TAS mission, have expertise in their teaching areas, and have a passion and enthusiasm for students and their success.

Thank you for your interest in becoming a TAS faculty member. We are proud of our school and what our educational programs offer to students. Every overseas school is unique, and ours is no exception. Our signature within the international school community is the strength of our students, faculty, staff, facilities, and academic program, which includes an extensive robotics, speech and debat program, as well as a robust fine and performing arts program. We aim to develop the whole child and foster in our students a commitment to learning, personal well-being, and service to others. Around 2380 students from 35 countries attend. Enrollment in the Lower School is around 910, the Middle School is at 620 and the Upper School is currently around 850. TAS students are supported by around 700 dedicated professionals including faculty and support staff. We are accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

This booklet is designed to provide information about the School’s organization, general living and working conditions, personnel policies, and all relevant matters that affect faculty employed by Taipei American School. While every effort has been made to ensure that the contents are comprehensive and meaningful, there always will be certain situations where additional explanation or advice is necessary. Please do not hesitate to contact the Human Resources (HR) office if you have any further questions.

Contact Us

Human Resources Office

Taipei American School

800 Zhongshan N. Rd., Section 6

Taipei 11152 Taiwan ROC

Phone: 886-2-7750-9900 ext. 309

Fax: 886-2-2873-1641

Email: hr@tas.edu.tw

Web: www.tas.edu.tw

Taipei American School is a large, exciting, learning organization located

culturally-rich

Welcome from Interim Head of School Evelyne Estey

I am delighted to introduce myself to you as Taipei American School’s Interim Head of School. I am honored to serve TAS, and I am filled with optimism for the future of the School and the impact our students and graduates will have on the world.

We proudly offer the best of the American-based education with a global perspective to an international population most of whose members are already multi-lingual, multi-cultural, multi-ethnic searchers of the best of internationalism.

We are a bridge that leads people from self to selflessness, from individuality to interdependence, and from the finest classrooms of a top independent school to success in the world beyond our borders. We value honesty, respect, responsibility, kindness, and courage and the education of the whole child.

With a revised mission statement and a new strategic plan spanning 2021-2026 that reflects our school’s priorities, Taipei American School is committed to educating students in a post-pandemic, globally connected world.

Please peruse this booklet, our website, and social media channels — and listen and learn from the perspectives and stories herein. If there is one thing you need to know about Tigers, it is that any challenges that we have faced and will continue to face will be met head-on with both grit and grace. If you are looking for a new community to call home, as an educator (and, perhaps, also as a parent), I know you have made an excellent choice in choosing TAS. I hope you enjoy reading, watching, and engaging with us in your journey to find a new educational community.

Sincerely,

Evelyne Estey Interim Head of School

Welcome to Taipei American School’s faculty recruitment booklet, where we will attempt to show you how our dynamic, multicultural, and compassionate community members learn and grow here.

Introduction to Taiwan

Taiwan (the Republic of China) is an island nation located sixty miles off the southeastern coast of mainland China (the People’s Republic of China). It is equal in size to the area of Massachusetts and Connecticut combined, or about half the size of Ireland. Its population exceeds 23 million people, making it among the most densely populated countries in the world.

The island of Taiwan is lush and beautiful, with many opportunities for travel, hiking, and photography. In many areas, indigenous tribes may still be found. Just outside the city of Taipei, simple village life in fishing and farming communities exists.

Taiwan’s climate is subtropical. In the north, summer temperatures often reach the mid to low 90s ºF (33-35 ºC) during the day and remain in the low 80s ºF (27-29 ºC) at night. During the months of December and January the daily highs are 65-75 ºF (18-24 ºC) and lows are 5065 ºF (10-18 ºC). Cooler temperatures are recorded in the mountains. Relative humidity is high throughout the year, ranging between 65-90%, which makes the chill seem deeper and the heat stronger.

An average of six typhoons (tropical storms) reach Taiwan each year, usually between the months of July to November. The effect of these storms on community life varies with the severity of the storm. Businesses and schools (including ours) are occasionally shut down for typhoon weather.

Three principal groups of people live in Taiwan: migrants from southern China in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries; members of the nationalist government, military, business community and their dependents who fled to Taiwan from mainland China in 1949; and a number of indigenous groups. Foreign residents make up about 2% of the population.

TAIPEI

Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, is located at the northern tip of the feather-shaped island. It is a modern city of more than 2.6 million people. The city retains much of the cultural environment of ancient China but also is representative of new and more western ways of life. People are friendly, helpful, and industrious; most Taiwanese speak at least some English. On public transportation and in most places in the city, signs are in both Mandarin and English. Taiwanese and Chinese art forms of all kinds can be enjoyed. Many popular cultural events and festivals are also held throughout the year. Planned tours of the city and the island are readily available. Taipei restaurants offer every type of superb Taiwanese and Chinese cuisine, as well as dishes from other world cuisines.

Taipei is located about 1,300 miles southwest of Tokyo, 425 miles south of Shanghai, and 700 miles north of Manila. The island of Taiwan is mountainous and is bordered by the Taiwan Strait, the East China Sea, the Philippine Sea, the Pacific Ocean, and the South China Sea.

INTERNATIONS EXPAT INSIDER 2021 SURVEY REVEALS THE BEST AND WORST DESTINATIONS TO LIVE AND WORK IN 2021

“Taiwan ranks 1st out of 59 destinations for the third year in a row in the Expat Insider 2021 survey. It also comes first in the Quality of Life and Working Abroad Indices.”

1. TAIWAN

2. MEXICO

3. COSTA RICA

4. MALAYSIA

5. PORTUGAL

Introduction to Taipei American School

Founded in 1949, Taipei American School is an independent coeducational day school that offers an American-based educational program from pre-kindergarten (KA) to Grade 12 for students from the expatriate community in Taipei.

TAS benefits from the synergy created by an outstanding faculty and staff, students who are ready to learn, supportive and committed parents, and a Board of Directors that keeps student learning at the center of its discussions. While TAS is a large school, efforts are made to ensure that all students are involved and part of the community.

TAS has been fully accredited by WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges) since 1972. Recent WASC visiting committees have noted that “student achievement has become the highest priority at TAS and all systems have been aligned to focus on our students and enable each and every one of them to achieve to their highest potential.”

They also commended the faculty and staff for their professionalism and care and noted, “a strong sense of community permeates all levels of the School as evidenced by the commitment and care for students, active and engaged parents who contribute both resources and time, and students who value and respect their school and interactions with adults.”

The School occupies a campus of 6.5 hectares (approximately 15 acres). The campus is wireless to service our IT needs as a one-to-one laptop school in the Lower School Grades 3-5, as well as the Middle and Upper Schools. The TAS campus features approximately 250 classrooms, including many science, robotics, and computer labs. The campus also features a four-story library/IT/media complex, music and art facilities, three dance studios, and three theaters. Sports facilities include three gyms, covered and outdoor tennis courts, a track, two playing fields with artificial turf, and a 25-meter indoor swimming pool. The cafeteria, pizza bar, Snack Bar, and Fitness Cafe serve nearly 3,000 patrons per day.

TAS is a highly innovative and dynamic school, as evidenced by the many building projects which have been completed to support our students’ growth and learning. An entirely new Upper School Building opened in 2012 and features state-of-the-art science and robotics labs, new classrooms equipped with cutting-edge technology, and a lecture hall. A new Arts Center Commons and Tiger Health and Wellness Center opened in 2013, and most recently, an entire building, the Tech Cube facility, entirely dedicated to KA-12 STEAM education opened for learning in 2018.

Each division is led by a principal and two associate principals. The School is incorporated in Delaware as the Taipei American School Foundation. It is led by an administrative team led by the Head of School and governed by the TAS Board of Directors. The TAS Board is a hybrid board consisting of up to 14 members: 9 elected board members and 5 appointed board members, including one appointed representative from AIT. Elected Board members are current TAS parents and serve for three-year terms. Appointed Board members serve for four-year terms. All Board members are volunteers and serve without compensation.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice (DEIJ)

The School is committed to further develop an understanding of and skills for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice (DEIJ). Like all fields of education, learning about DEIJ is a lifelong journey. Our DEIJ journey includes faculty and staff trainings centered on the Learning for Justice Social Justice Standards.

The Schoolwide DEIJ Committee works to further objectives and action items from the TAS Strategic Plan in the categories of Curriculum, Extra-Curricular, Professional Development, Policy and Practices, and Family Engagement. The committee is comprised of employees, family members, alumni, and administrators.

A group of employees collectively authored what has now been adopted by Taipei American School as a communitywide commitment to the principles of diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice. This statement, listed below, helps to anchor community-wide learning and actions around diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice.

TAS DEIJ Community Commitment

As a community of students, parents, families, faculty, administration, staff, board members, and alumni, we will foster a culture of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion that embodies anti-bias action and accountability. We commit ourselves and our peers to live the TAS values and to do the work necessary to maintain an inclusive, diverse, and welcoming environment for all. We will continue to question and challenge our own biases and privileges and use our experiences to empower our community.

A Focus on Enduring Personal Well-being

Taipei American School’s mission includes the cultivation of an enduring commitment to learning, personal wellbeing, and service. Well-being is an essential focus of continual growth for students and employees at TAS, We believe students and employees can understand and find their balance of school and well-being, it will enhance their performance in academics and work, respectively.

For physical and emotional wellness, employees are encouraged to use the Tiger Health and Wellness Center and the swimming pools at designated times for lap swim. The school has an occupational nurse to assist with injuries that occur during work hours.

TAS also covers six sessions at the Community Center, a local English- and Mandarin-speaking counseling service, for an employee’s life at TAS. TAS has also partnered with a bilingual Employee Assistance Program that provides, healthcare, mental health, work-life balance, financial, legal, interpersonal, and relationship support.

For students’ physical and emotional wellness, there are 14 mental health and well-being professionals, six nurses, three athletic trainers, and support staff.

Safeguarding Our Students

Student safety is our number one priority.

We believe that a supportive, safe, and caring environment is a foundation that all our students deserve, a foundation which forms the bedrock of our school’s mission: to cultivate an enduring commitment to learning, personal well-being, and service. In partnership with all members of our school community, we are committed to upholding and modeling moral and ethical behavior in accordance with the TAS values: honesty, respect, responsibility, kindness, and courage.

The components of our safeguarding practice are guided by the Taipei American School child protection policy, which is derived from the child protection laws of Taiwan and best practices from the United States and Taiwan, along with guidance from safeguarding experts. TAS employees who suspect child abuse or neglect must report it immediately to their supervisor, counselor, or divisional principal. Following the chain of command, the divisional principal must be notified of concerns and report them immediately to the head of school and to the chief operating officer.

Safeguarding Components

• Safe hiring practices including reference and background checks for employees, contract staff and on-campus vendors as well as a refreshed background check every three school years;

• Annual training for employees, contract staff, and on-campus vendors;

• Clear protocols for reporting;

• Access-controlled campus with visitor protocol;

• Annual review of the child protection policy.

SEE FOR

YOURSELF | TOP: Lower School students enjoying nature at the annual Camp Taiwan trip; MIDDLE: Lower School students taking part in problem-solving activities at Field Day; LOWER: Upper School students spending time with friends at Field Day and during a Speech & Debate competition.

Academic Program

“Every school claims to put students first; TAS really does. Everything else here flows from that fact.”

-Upper School Teacher

Curriculum

Taipei American School offers an American-based education with a global perspective that including honors, Advanced Placement, and International Baccalaureate courses. Students can earn an IB Diploma in addition to an American diploma. TAS is known for its rigorous academic program, strong learning outcomes, an extensive menu of co-curricular activities, a rich history of community service to Taiwan and wider Asia, and exceptional fine arts and performing arts programs.

Our curricular program is based on subject area standards and benchmarks from the United States. Teachers use common assessments and instructional strategies based on research about how students learn within any subject area. The overarching goal of our written curriculum is to provide a guaranteed and viable curriculum wihtout sacrificing teacher flexibility or creativity.

Since many of our students are multilingual and multicultural, we place a special emphasis on English development. At each division, special attention is given to developing communication skills; these include oral language skills through drama, public speaking, and other opportunities for vocal expression.

In addition, many of our students have a special interest in and excel in science, technology, and mathematics. Curricular programs and offerings in these areas are designed to take advantage of a myriad of talents and interests. The Tech Cube and Upper School Building further enable TAS to offer new and exciting learning opportunities for students both within the school setting and in the greater Taipei area.

All curricular areas are systematically reviewed through a comprehensive process. Teachers new to TAS will find ample resources available to teach the adopted curriculum.

English as an Academic Language (EAL)

In the Lower and Middle Schools, our EAL programs help students who need extra support with English language acquisition and accessing the curriculum. Students are provided with a continuum of services, by specially trained EAL teachers.

Student Support Services

There are counselors in each division who assist students with social concerns and support social emotional learning (SEL). TAS also provides services with specially trained academic support teachers for students with mild learning differences. Our professional support services team consists of psychologists, speech and language pathologists, and academic support teachers. In the Upper School, students also work with a specialized college counselor starting in January of the eleventh grade.

Assessment

The assessment program at TAS is designed to provide rich information about the progress of each student. Data from the results of academic testing are used as an important measure of student learning.

To realize a full picture of student achievement, we use assessments to monitor student progress. Every grade level and subject area has assessments that measure student achievement of the curriculum. All teachers use these common assessments.

Students in Grades 5 and 8 take subtests from the Comprehensive Testing Program. At the upper school level, all students in grades 10 take the PSAT; then most students take the ACT or the SAT. Given our diversity of student abilities, it is interesting to note that our students, with few exceptions, consistently perform at or above the independent private school norm group in all areas. In addition, our students consistently score above the world average in the vast majority of the AP and IB exams that they take.

The TAS Schoolwide Learning Outcomes

In addition to a strong academic program, and a focus on personal well-being, we strive to support learners in being:

1. Critical and Creative Thinkers who:

• Analyze and synthesize information from multiple reliable sources, evaluate evidence, and make informed decisions.

• Identify and understand problems, breaking them down into smaller components to develop possible solutions.

• Generate ideas, products, and experiences that demonstrate innovation.

• Demonstrate curiosity about the world, ask questions, and seek out new information and perspectives.

2. Self-Directed Learners who:

• Take initiative and proactively seek opportunities for self-growth and development.

• Design a plan to accomplish goals based on priorities.

• Utilize time, manage workload, and complete tasks efficiently with greater independence.

• Demonstrate persistence and resilience using a variety of strategies.

3. Collaborative Communicators who:

• Listen actively, considering different perspectives, ideas, and values.

• Articulate ideas clearly and effectively to diverse audiences through oral, written, digital, and creative expression.

• Recognize, understand, and regulate individual emotions, as well as responding with empathy to the emotions of others.

• Take responsibility for achieving common goals through teamwork and shared contributions.

4. Well-Balanced Individuals who:

• Maintain a healthy balance between academic demands, physical activity, personal relationships, digital experiences, and interests.

• Implement strategies to manage stress, prioritize self-care, and develop resilience to achieve overall well-being.

• Adapt to changing circumstances, embrace new ideas and opportunities, and learn from experience.

• Cultivate a sense of belonging for oneself and others.

5. Globally-Minded Contributors who:

• Understand and respect diverse cultures, customs, and beliefs.

• Advocate for inclusive practices that promote diversity, equity and justice.

• Critically research information on local and global issues and take action to positively impact others.

Information Technology

Taipei American School views information technology as a powerful tool to support and enrich teaching and learning. We believe the use of technology should be woven seamlessly into education, supporting and enhancing the curriculum across disciplines, and facilitating collaboration, innovation, expression, and exploration.

We strive to:

• Reflect best practices in education and engage students through active learning

• Accommodate diverse learning styles and provide opportunities for choice, individualized learning experiences, and inquiry

• Foster a safe environment and guide students to make moral and ethical choices

• Connect students, faculty, administrators, parents, and the greater community

• Challenge students to become adaptable problem solvers and lifelong learners in pursuit of personal achievement and excellence

• Encourage a technological landscape that is equitable, accessible, and inclusive

Our philosophy is realized through a technology-rich environment. We are primarily a Windows-based school, and all faculty members are equipped with a tablet PC. Lower School homeroom teachers also receive an iPad. In Kindergarten – Grade 2, students make use of 1:1 classroom iPads, while students in Grades 3-9 participate in a 1:1 laptop program, and students in Grades 10-12 are BYOD (Bring Your Own Device).

Beyond individual devices, there are additional iPads for student use in a variety of spaces across the school, including the Tech Cube, Joanna Nichols Memorial Libraries, KA, upper elementary, art, music, and Mandarin.

Each classroom is equipped with a digital projector, sound system, and either an interactive whiteboard or display. Middle and lower school classrooms (as well as upper school classrooms when requested) are equipped with a document camera.

We have a dedicated video studio, video-editing suite, and graphics studio with 3D printing and scanning facilities that provide students with extended learning and exploration opportunities. For activities that require high-end performance, such as robotics CAD design, music production, film editing, and 3D modeling, students also have access to top-of-the-line desktop machines in several spaces throughout campus.

Regarding software, faculty and students have access to an array of services and subscriptions. Most of our work occurs in Seesaw (Lower School), Canvas (Middle and Upper School), Microsoft 365, and Google Workspace.

To assist with seamless and meaningful tech integration, faculty members are supported by a team of Technology and Design coaches, technical support personnel, and professional development opportunities.

Libraries and Information Literacy

Joanna Nichols Memorial Libraries

The Joanna Nichols Memorial Libraries at Taipei American School are four state-of-the-art, well-resourced libraries that are staffed by professionals. Faculty, staff, and students have access to the Upper School Information Commons [USIC], the Middle School Library, the Lower School Library along with the KA-12 Chinese Library. As a school committed to diversity, equity, inclusion and justice, the collections mirror the diversity of our community and also celebrate and affirm the humanity of all cultures and backgrounds. The USIC has one of the largest adult English print and e-book collections in Taiwan with more than 22,000 English titles as well as an extensive collection of e-resources including hundreds of electronic newspapers, thousands of academic journals, popular magazines and other research databases. Faculty often use the USIC college-level online resources for their own professional development as well as for the courses that they teach at TAS. The Lower School Library has more than 30,000 books, and both faculty and children enjoy taking the picture books home for family reading time. Faculty may use the services from any four of the TAS libraries.

Lower School Library

The Lower School library has colorful, differentiated spaces for early childhood (KA-2) and elementary (3-5) and houses a strong, up-to-date collection of print and electronic books, audiobooks, and databases. Students are encouraged to use library resources for both reading enjoyment and informational needs, and the space accommodates small and large groups. The instruction of information literacy skills is integrated into relevant units of study throughout the curriculum. Find out more at lslib.tas.edu. tw

Middle School Library

The Middle School library provides a friendly, comfortable atmosphere with plenty of differentiated learning spaces to accommodate the diverse learning styles and developmental needs of our students. Like all TAS libraries, it is wireless and designed to accommodate multiple classes and individuals for research, study, and casual reading. The library includes a performance area for both sharing learning and for library instruction, as well as open shelves for easy access to materials. The library collection is rich in both print and electronic resources, which paired with knowledgeable and friendly staff makes the library a welcoming place for students, parents, and faculty alike. Find out more at mslib.tas.edu.tw.

Upper School Information Commons (USIC)

The USIC supports an increasingly academic curriculum and formal research program that form the heart of the Upper School. The USIC provides grades nine through twelve students and teachers from across the school and within all disciplines access to quality, developmentally and professionally appropriate, print and digital content that is discoverable through multiple search options and research experiences. Students and faculty enjoy technologically rich spaces in the USIC that accommodate diverse learning styles and educational situations including whole class spaces, individual reading tables, group study rooms, lounge areas, and a large, silent reading room. Among many of the services provided, the USIC offers in-person and online, personalized services: research appointments with the librarian, space reservations, online book requests, and document-delivery service. The USIC is well-loved by students and faculty alike. Find out more at usic.tas.edu.tw.

Chinese Library

The Chinese library supports Mandarin language instruction for Grades K-12. The collection includes print and electronic resources for all levels of language ability and instruction, and the librarian works closely with the Mandarin teachers to support classroom work and a love of literature. TAS is proud to include a dedicated library facility for Mandarin language and cultural understanding which honors and reflects our host country, Taiwan, and Chinese culture. Find out more at chlib.tas.edu.tw.

The Three Divisions

The Three Divisions: Lower School

“TAS always cheers me up on a bad day and makes me feel happy. The facilities are great and the teacher makes us feel at home. That’s why TAS is an awesome school!”

-Lower School Student

The curriculum and instruction at the Lower School feature many materials and approaches found in the highest quality elementary schools in the United States and worldwide.

All subjects are based on standards from the USA. As 80% of our lower school students have a first language other than English, literacy development is a top priority in all subject areas. All grade levels use the workshop approach for teaching reading and writing, and there is a special emphasis on building student confidence in communication, particularly in oral language skills.

Building positive classroom communities and balancing Social and Emotional Learning with academics is a priority. The Lower School incorporates RULER and the Responsive Classroom approach throughout the school day. These approaches reinforce and validate great teaching by bridging character education and wellness while strengthening our rigorous academic program. RULER provides a framework and tools to help students understand the impact of their emotions. Students learn to recognize, understand, label, express, and regulate emotions. We promote respectful, kind, and positive school communities while addressing students’ social-emotional and academic needs.

The class size per room varies depending on the developmental level of the students. The following are approximate class sizes for lower school grade levels: The class size for Kindergarten A and Kindergarten is 16, for Grade 1 is 18, and for Grade 2 is 20. The class size for Grades 3 through 5 is 22. All lower school classrooms have both a lead teacher and a teaching assistant.

The Lower School operates with a schedule featuring a ten-day cycle. The schedule ensures large blocks of uninterrupted instructional time at all grade levels. Classroom teachers are with students for approximately 4.5 hours per day. Students attend the following specials during the ten-day cycle: physical education, music, art, STEAM, and library. Students in Grades 3-5 have additional music activity classes. In

addition, kindergarten through grade five students attend Mandarin class nine days out of ten. Instructional technology is integrated into content area class work and is planned and taught cooperatively by the Technology and Design Coaches and classroom teachers.

EAL teachers collaborate with classroom teachers to support students needing English academic language support. EAL students are immersed in the mainstream, and EAL teachers work collaboratively with homeroom teachers, focusing on reading, writing, speaking, and listening in core subjects and infusing language targets into all areas of the curriculum.

In Grades 3-5, EAL students have the option to receive an additional English Language Development (ELD) class in lieu of Mandarin class to reinforce English language acquisition skills and support with accessing the curriculum. Lower school teachers work in teams. Adherence to the articulated curriculum, timelines, and assessment expectations ensure a quality program for all of our students.

Lower School teachers enjoy a rich professional development program, dialogue with highly skilled and experienced colleagues, including instructional coaches, supportive parents, and enthusiastic and inquisitive students. We look for teachers who are positive character models who have a passion for teaching, who believe in continuous improvement, are positive problem solvers, and love young children.

“For two decades, TAS has been my professional home. It is an exceptional school whose history is rich with remarkable people, amazing stories, and lasting memories. There’s no place I’d rather be.”

-Lower School Administrator

The Three Divisions: Middle School

“I like TAS because everything around us is so incredible and the people here are so welcoming and really allow you to just be yourself. There will be everlasting friendships made out of this and I’m so glad that we all get to share in this and be a part of it. “

-Middle School Student

The Middle School program is designed around the natural enthusiasm of students. We strike a balance between the socialemotional well-being of adolescents and the academic vigor that is delivered by our middle school experts. The goal is to prepare our students not just for upper school but for whatever comes next by helping them become more independent, adaptable, and resilient, both as learners and as people.

TAS is a close-knit community of learners. The day intentionally begins with students in their homerooms, small groups of 1012 students with one teacher, all building positive relationships and discussing meaningful topics around wellness. We want our students to benefit from individualized instruction, and our faculty is attuned to the unique developmental needs of students of this age. Homeroom teachers at each grade level work as a team under the guidance and supervision of the team leaders and counselors. We want our students to have thoroughly enjoyed the learning process and to be proud of their hard work.

The academic program is designed to expand our students’ horizons. All of our courses challenge them to make the critical links between subject areas. Along with core classes in English, history, and science, we offer 6 levels of Math to meet all student needs as well as multiple levels of Mandarin, Spanish, and Latin/Greek. We also offer students new challenges through experiential settings such as our week-long Camp Taiwan trips in the fall.

Our electives program offers a further mix of classes such as drama, debate, art, STEAM, and robotics. In addition, all students participate in a performing arts and visual arts classes during each year of middle school. Our after school cocurricular program includes a vast array of additional activities. Middle school clubs are all sponsored by middle school teachers and include over 20 different activities that allow students to explore their interests in such things as musicals, MathCounts, Model UN, and VEX EDR.

Many of these clubs include traveling for competitions. With four seasons of after school athletic teams to choose from as well, our students have innumerable opportunities to learn, grow and shine.

“After spending years teaching in a very good independent school in the U.S., I felt I had been lucky to work with the very best students you could find. What a pleasant surprise I found at TAS. My previous students were great, but TAS students are a true delight!

-Middle School Teacher

The Three Divisions: Upper School

The Upper School offers a dynamic collegepreparatory curriculum that prepares students for success in college admissions, college academics, and college life; there is an expectation that their preparation will also serve them well throughout their life.

The Upper School offers a wide array of courses and students are encouraged to take an appropriately challenging program in which they can do well. Students usually take six or seven courses each semester, selecting courses in English, social studies, math and computer sciences, science, world languages, and performing and visual arts. Each course meets for 80 minutes, every other day, giving students and teachers opportunities to delve deeply into the subject matter. The average class size in the Upper School is 13.

The best teachers are inspirational in and outside the classroom; serve as coaches or club sponsors; attend student performances, games, and events; are dedicated advisors; weave themselves into the very fabric of the School; are delightful colleagues; and exude a positive attitude. We look for teachers who are interested in helping to create a vibrant community of learners.

We emphasize student learning and realize that there are many different teaching styles to achieve student learning; we encourage teachers to choose the pedagogical tools or style that best helps their students to learn.

We are a “laptop school,” and teachers are expected to explore strategies that take advantage of our 1:1 environment. We have high expectations for ourselves and for others, and we actively promote our Taipei American School values: honesty, respect, responsibility, kindness, and courage. Our Upper School Honor Code incorporates the TAS values. We have the privilege of working with wonderful, inquisitive, responsible, and conscientious students, and our teachers can look forward to coming to work every day!

A TAS graduate should have mastered the fundamental skills of accurate and deep reading and of writing and speaking with clarity and cogency. Our students learn to use the tools of mathematical and logical reasoning to solve practical problems. They become skilled researchers, familiar with developing information technology, and readily able to embrace new areas of knowledge.

“The students here make me want to show up early and stay late. They are friendly, fun, funny, respectful, incredibly hard working, smart, insightful, energetic, and willing to enthusiastically tackle whatever learning task you ask of them. If you truly like spending your days interacting with kids, TAS is a marvelous experience.”

-Upper School Teacher

Reporting Student Progress

In the Lower School, parent/teacher conferences are held during the first and third quarters. Lower school students receive a digital standards-based report in the second and fourth quarters. This digital report features grade level exemplars and current student work.

Middle school students receive a quarterly grade report card, a narrative mid-year progress report, and an end-of-year narrative report from their homeroom teachers. In addition, parent conferences are held after the first and third quarters.

Upper school students and parents have electronic access to quarterly grades through PowerSchool. Parent conferences are held at the end of the first and third quarters. In addition, some narrative midterm written reports are required. Timely and professional communication with parents is an important expectation. Ultimately, parents are our partners in educating students, and our teachers and administrators ensure that they are kept abreast of their child’s progress.

Professional Growth and Evaluation

TAS offers a wide variety of professional development opportunities for faculty.

Each year, opportunities are provided to help faculty implement divisional and/or school-wide initiatives. In addition, options for personal professional development, intended to keep faculty members current in their fields of expertise, are available. In addition to encouraging and supporting teachers in attending relevant conferences and workshops off campus, TAS offers a rich variety of on-site consultants who support divisional and schoolwide initiatives.

Professional development days are intentionally placed throughout the TAS school calendar, with some days are at the beginning of the school year to allow new and returning teachers to prepare for the coming year. During the remaining days that are spread throughout the year, we take time to come together as a faculty to work on divisional and schoolwide goals.

Every year there are action items on the strategic plan or related to other divisional initiatives that call for professional development. Individuals, teams or departments might be asked to take part in targeted professional development to enhance their capacity to implement or further initiatives. Some of those initiatives involve travel to nearby conferences or training sessions; others bring experts right to our campus.

Finally, where appropriate, teachers will be supported in receiving relevant professional workshops that clearly and directly support their work at TAS. For example, teachers new to the program have received training by the College Board or the International Baccalaureate to better support the success of students enrolled in those courses and programs. All such professional development must be approved and supported by divisional leadership and approved by the PD Approval Committee. If the option exists, teachers are often encouraged to take advantage of summer months and online offerings for more intensive professional development opportunities.

Supervision and Evaluation

All students deserve great teachers. The TAS teacher supervision and evaluation process represents a belief that all teachers deserve feedback to help them become more effective. Six performance standards outline our beliefs about effective teaching. They define specific teaching behaviors based on research and current practice that influence student achievement. Similar standards for specified positions such as counselor, speech and language specialist, librarians, and support services teachers have also been developed.

The supervision and evaluation process includes two tracks, one for teachers new to TAS and one for continuing teachers. The new teacher track recognizes that teachers adjusting to TAS and to life in Taiwan face a variety of issues that relate to both their professional and personal lives. This track is designed to provide an appropriate level of support for new teachers, but not to overwhelm them, particularly during their first semester. Thus, all new teachers can expect a round of observations and feedback from the appropriate divisional supervisor within the first two months of the start of the new school year. The goal of such observations is always to support that teacher’s successful transition to TAS.

The TAS Standards for Effective Teaching

Performance Standard 1: Professional Knowledge

The teachers demonstrates an understanding of the curriculum, subject content, and the developmental needs of students by providing relevant learning experiences.

Performance Standard 2: Instructional Planning

The teacher plans using the TAS standards, the school’s curriculum, data, engaging and appropriate strategies, and resources to meet the needs of all students.

Performance Standard 3: Instructional Delivery

The teacher uses a variety of research-based, developmentally appropriate instructional strategies relevant to the content area to engage students in active learning, to promote key skills, and to meet individual learning needs.

Performance Standard 4: Assessment of and for Learning

The teacher systematically gathers, analyzes, and uses relevant data to measure student progress, guide instructional content and delivery methods, and provide timely feedback to students, parents, and stakeholders.

Performance Standard 5: Learning Environment

The teacher uses resources, routines, and procedures to provide a respectful, positive, safe, student-centered environment that is conducive to learning.

Performance Standard 6: Professionalism

The teacher maintains a commitment to professional ethics, collaborates and communicates appropriately, and takes responsibility for personal professional growth that results in the enhancement of student learning.

Continuous School Improvement

TAS has a system of ongoing school improvement guided by our Strategic Plan. The Strategic Plan guides all that we do in terms of programming, budgeting, and resource allocation. It was developed through an inclusive process that involved input from all stakeholders. There are five strategic areas in the Plan.

Strategic Area 1: Focusing on Learning

Strategic Area 2: Supporting Student Life

Strategic Area 3: Investing in the Highest-Quality Personnel

Strategic Area 4: Providing a Strong Foundation

Strategic Area 5: Strengthening the TAS Community

Campus & Facilities PICTURE YOURSELF AT

TAIPEI AMERICAN SCHOOL.

Applying to TAS and Personnel Policies

Employment at Taipei American School is based on qualifications and meeting the job requirements regardless of race, color, religion, creed, sex, age, marital status, national origin, mental or physical disability, political belief or affiliation, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, genetic information, any other class of individuals protected, or other legally-protected characteristic. All qualified applicants, including those who identify as a part of marginalized group(s) and individuals with disabilities are all encouraged to apply.

Applications from qualified teachers are accepted at any time, but off-island applications are best made between September and December. At TAS and many other independent schools, recruiting has become a year-round process. Teacher candidates can find information and fill out the TAS application form posted on the TAS website. Personal interviews are required and the appointment preference will be given to personnel with significant academic background in the subject, significant experience in the field, valid teaching certification for the position to which they are assigned.

Hiring Guidelines

• All candidates must have an undergraduate degree.

• Transcripts are reviewed for breadth and depth of courses taken, as well as scholarship.

• Preference is given to those with advanced degrees, at least two years of experience in an accredited elementary or secondary school, and experience in teaching the specific subject area for which they are applying.

The following academic training is preferred:

• Lower School: A teaching degree with a breadth of knowledge across all subject areas and either early childhood or elementary education certification.

• Middle School: A major in the subject area to be taught. Experience in middle school is preferred. Certification desirable.

• Upper School: A major with breadth and depth in the subject to be taught. A postgraduate degree in the subject area is preferred.

The following may also be considered when reviewing applicants:

• Demonstrates superior knowledge of the subject area and can teach the subject at an appropriate level.

• Demonstrates a history of high expectations for academic achievement of students and motivates all children to high personal achievement.

• Demonstrates an understanding of and ability to work with a substantial number of EAL (or limited English proficiency) students in the regular classroom.

• Communicates effectively and positively with team members as well as with parents in the community.

Medical Insurance

All personnel must have health and hospitalization insurance. For non-ROC citizens, the School carries a group health, disability and fixed-term life insurance plan (CIGNA/MetLife) and pays the premium for all those enrolled in individual or family plans; new employees and their authorized dependents are covered under the School’s CIGNA/MetLife insurance plan from the effective starting date of their contracts. Faculty who are ROC nationals are covered by the School’s policy with Shin Kong Group Insurance for health and fixed term life insurance coverage and MetLife Insurance for disability coverage.

All TAS employees are required to participate in Taiwan’s National Health Insurance (NHI). When non-ROC employees receive their Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) cards, TAS automatically will enroll them in the NHI. Non-working spouses and other dependents can apply for NHI coverage after they receive their ARC. With NHI, you may visit any clinic or hospital of your choice within the NHI network providers. There is a co-payment of NT$150-600 (US$5-20) for each visit. You may need to pay extra for prescription medications. Dental care is also available through NHI. The employee’s portion of the charge for NHI is deducted from your monthly salary; the premium is based on your salary and the number of dependents that are covered.

Orientation

Orientation for all new professional staff is held during the week before school starts. New direct-off-island hired personnel are expected to arrive in Taipei two weeks before the orientation.

Occupational Health, Safety, & Physical Exam

Taipei American School has appointed Health and Safety personnel who are responsible to oversee and conduct the required measures and provisions of the occupational health and safety plan.

Taipei American School has established Health and Safety Work Rules to prevent workplace accidents; to protect the health and safety of all employees; to ensure normal operations within the workplace; and to maintain a healthy and safe work environment.

Taipei American School provides health examination benefits for all new employees upon employment, and annual preventive health examinations for returning employees. A new employee is required to provide a health examination report before the commencement of contract. Returning employees are required to provide a health examination report per the required timeline as stated in the Regulations of the Labor Health Protection in Taiwan.

Employee health examination reports should be submitted to HR in a sealed confidential envelope that is only for Occupational Nurse Office’s evaluation for employee health management and record filing.

Placement Fees

Taipei American School does not pay the teacher portion of placement fees from recruitment agencies.

Retirement Plan

Participation in a Taipei American School retirement plan is mandatory for eligible employees. Taipei American School contributes a fixed percentage (currently 10%) of the contract base salary for the months in which salary is paid.

Salary

All salaries are paid in New Taiwanese Dollars —NT$— Taiwan’s currency. The NT$ is easily convertible into U.S. dollars and other major currencies. Faculty may opt for ten (10) equal monthly payments from August through May or twelve (12) equal monthly payments from July through June of each year. Once a payment option is selected, it cannot be changed during that school year. Administrators are paid in twelve equal monthly payments from July through June of each year.

During new faculty orientation, faculty will set up a local bank account at Mega International Bank of Taiwan. Pay is deposited directly into this account on the last workday of every month with the exception of August and December. The August paycheck is moved up to assist faculty with startof-the-year expenses. The December paycheck is moved up to the day before winter break to provide teachers with additional flexibility over the holiday period. ATMs are located at the School and throughout the city.

Recognizing that many faculty members have overseas US$ obligations, TAS has set up an option for faculty to peg 50% of their base salary to the value of the NT$ in US$ as of the first business day of July. Faculty who peg can count on a fixed number of US$ each month (converted to NT$ in each month’s paycheck) and can protect themselves from currency devaluations. The pegged amount and the other 50% of base salary are all paid in NT$.

Taipei American School professional salaries are organized on a three-level, twelve-step system. Initial placement on the salary scale is based on educational degrees and years of experience.

The level is determined by the highest completed degree. Alternatively, sufficient graduate-level coursework (applicable to an MA degree or higher) earned after completion of a BA or MA may be used for placement.

• Placement on Level 1 (BA) of the salary schedule requires a bachelor’s degree.

• Placement on Level 2 (BA+50) requires a master’s degree or the equivalent of 50 semester credit hours of graduate work earned after the completion of the bachelor’s degree.

• Placement on Level 3 (MA+40) requires a doctorate or the equivalent of 40 semester credit hours of graduate work earned after the completion of the master’s degree.

The initial step is determined by the number of years of previous full-time experience teaching in an elementary or secondary school. The maximum step for a new teacher is step 6 (five years previous experience). Teachers move up one step each year they are at TAS, until reaching the top step.

Placement on the salary scale is made by the human resources director after verification of course work and previous experience. If courses are finished during the summer or additional documentation arrives after contracts are issued, all required evidence to support placement on the salary schedule (transcripts, verification of experience, certification, etc.) must be submitted to the human resources office by October 30 of the contract year; otherwise salary payments may be withheld and shall not warrant retroactive pay. No other salary adjustments will be made after October 30.

Social Security

For all U.S. citizens, FICA tax is withheld at the current rate from all wages. The School contributes a matching amount, not to exceed the federal maximum.

Work Permits, Entry Visas, and Alien Resident Certificates

All off-island-hired nonROC faculty members need to have a work permit to teach at Taipei American School. Once a contract is signed and the Safe Recruiting Practices and Background Check requirements are completed, the HR office will secure a work permit for the employee and send it to them.

This work permit, along with passports and the required fees (in cash), must be taken to the nearest Taiwan Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) where the employee and approved dependents must submit applications for resident visas.

With these resident visas, employees and authorized dependents can enter Taiwan legally for an extended stay as per their employment terms.

Once new employees arrive at the School, the HR office helps them and their authorized dependents to obtain Alien Resident Certificates (ARCs).

The HR office processes all necessary documentation and assists non-ROC citizens with the necessary formalities. At the conclusion of the initial contract and every year after that, the HR Office obtains new work permits for returning faculty and assists them and their authorized dependents to renew their ARC cards.

Other Benefits

Supplements

Supplements are paid to direct off-island-hired employees for the purpose of moving to and establishing a residence in Taiwan as a condition of employment at Taipei American School. When teaching couples are hired, only one set of supplements is applicable per family, and the first authorized dependent is the spouse. An American member of a teaching couple receiving the supplements is liable for American tax on them.

Supplements include Livelihood Supplement, Settling-In Supplement, Relocation Allowances, and Travel upon Employment and Separation.

1. Livelihood Supplement

In addition to salary, direct off-island-hired employees are paid a livelihood supplement. This is intended to assist with the expenses of living in Taiwan (such as rent, utilities, and holiday travel). In their first year, new teachers are advanced part of their livelihood supplement upon arrival to help defray expenses such as large appliances or payment of rent deposits; the balance is then paid in equal monthly installments in monthly paychecks. In subsequent years, the livelihood supplement is divided into either ten or twelve equal monthly installments as per the salary payment option selected.

2. Settling-In Supplement

A one-time settling-in supplement is paid to new employees upon arrival in Taiwan. This supplement is intended to help defray the costs of hotels upon arrival and of setting up your apartment or house.

3. Relocation Allowance

Incoming Relocation Allowance:

TAS will pay a relocation allowance towards the shipment of personal effects into Taiwan at the beginning of a Direct Off-Island Hired employee’s initial contract. The amount of the allowance paid by TAS is determined by the employee’s Home of Record locations. The relocation allowance is a taxable benefit, which might be subject to income and payroll taxes depending on the employee’s citizenship.

Outgoing Relocation Allowance:

TAS will pay a relocation allowance towards the shipment of personal effects out of Taiwan at the end of a Direct Off-Island Hired employee’s final contract. The amount of the allowance paid by TAS is determined by the employee’s Home of Record locations. The relocation allowance is a taxable benefit, which might be subject to income and payroll taxes depending on the employee’s citizenship.

4. Travel Upon Employment and Separation

Upon employment, the School will provide qualified direct off-island-hired employees with an authorized amount to cover economy airfare for themselves and authorized dependents between their home of record and Taiwan. In the event the employee wishes to fly a different airline or a different class or a different route, only amounts up to what was authorized by the School can be reimbursed. Upon arrival, the School must be provided with travel payment receipts, ticket stubs, and boarding passes in order for the employee to qualify for reimbursement.

Upon separation, qualified direct off-island-hired teachers and their authorized dependents will be provided an authorized amount for return economy travel to their home of record.

Reimbursement for Passports, Visas, and Inoculations

Costs incurred for inoculations, passports, and visas that are specifically required for travel to Taiwan or return to an employee’s home of record will be reimbursed upon presentation of receipts to the human resources office.

Tax Exemption from ROC

Off-island-hired faculty members who do not hold any of the following valid ROC nationality/citizenship status (ROC household registration, ROC ID Card, ROC passport, ROC nationality) are exempt from ROC tax on income received from TAS.

Tuition and Transportation of Dependents

Tuition and school bus transportation will be provided for each authorized dependent child who attends Taipei American School.

Supplies

Teachers can order normal classroom consumables through department or team budgets from the School’s supply warehouse. Special supplies— textbooks, trade books, software, and AV materials—are ordered annually from the United States.

Housing

“Human Resources, veteran staff, and departing staff went above and beyond in helping us to transition to life in Taiwan.

From finding apartments and childcare, to answering transportation and weather questions, they really made every adjustment simple and seamless.”

-Faculty Couple

Housing

Housing in Tianmu within walking distance of the School rents for NT$40,000 to NT$90,000 (US$1,500 to US$3,000) per month for a three-bedroom/or four-bedroom apartment (unfurnished or partially furnished), excluding monthly building fees and utilities. Some completely furnished apartments are available, but expect to pay 10%15% more.

Sizes are small according to U.S. standards. Typical apartments have a living room, a large bedroom with a small bath, two small bedrooms, a second bathroom, and a tiny kitchen. Many apartments include extras such as a washing machine, a twoburner range, or air conditioners in all rooms. Storage and closet space may be limited. You may find yourself putting a refrigerator in your living room; space for a dryer is problematic in many apartments.

There are vacancies in the neighborhoods surrounding the School; apartments come with a wide range of views, shopping access, parking arrangements, balconies, fixtures, etc. You will have plenty of options. There are numerous rental agencies to help you find an apartment that suits your needs.

Most landlords are happy to rent their apartments to foreign teachers. The price that an agent proposes usually is not final. Some apartments are shown to many customers and the price starts high and tends to decrease when more people turn it down. Besides negotiating the rent, you can ask for new paint, new fixtures, an extra air conditioner, etc. Be polite but clear as you bargain.

Consider what you think is important to you before looking—kitchen, view,

elevator, shopping access, etc. Most people view at least ten places for comparison before choosing. If you really like a place, don’t hesitate—it might be gone the next day. Many new expatriates will be looking at the same time.

Upon arrival, new teachers will have access to a substantial part of their livelihood supplement. Landlords usually ask for a one or two-month refundable rental deposit upon lease signing. TAS recommends all new teachers initially sign no more than a one-year lease. Check every detail before signing a lease. Are the toilets and faucets functioning? Are there signs of previous leakage? Are there many cockroaches? Is there power everywhere? Are all the lights working? It is best to make a list and check it carefully before signing a lease.

Some faculty members choose to live outside Tianmu and to use public transportation or their own vehicles to get to school. Outside Tianmu, rental prices are cheaper, but you are farther away from the School and some western goods and services. If you use a car for transportation, be prepared for heavy traffic. Some teachers own scooters, but riding scooters in Taipei traffic can be dangerous and accidents are common.

The housing agent who finds you a place will normally charge one month’s or half of a month’s rent for their fee. After you sign a contract, most agents will be glad to render you many services at no charge. These include getting a phone line or cable TV connected, contacting and negotiating with the landlord on maintenance, showing you the most important places in the area, providing information, or translating Chinese documents. Do not hesitate to use their services.

What to Bring to Taiwan and What to Expect

The essential ingredient in making a move to this new country is a positive, anticipatory attitude. A spirit of adventure—willingness to explore, interest in studying the uniqueness of Taiwan, openness to differences, a sense of humor—will serve you well.

Before coming to Taiwan, you will have many questions about what to expect, what to bring, and what to leave behind. With the exception of largersized adult clothing, larger shoes, and some of your favorite food items, you can essentially purchase everything you need or want in Taipei. As we all know, it is not possible to be “fully prepared.” Regardless of choices, there will be items you will wish you had brought and items you could have left behind. If you can include what you value most and don’t want to be without, you will be in good shape. The rest you can, quite happily, improvise or simply live without.

We trust your time in Taiwan will be an enriching experience of living and growing in the context of another culture. We look forward to the addition of your special personality to our international Taipei American School community.

Electrical Appliances

Electricity is expensive in Taiwan. The voltage is 110, and U.S.-made appliances work without problems.

Air Conditioners and Fans

Most people have air conditioning. New and used units, including Taiwanese and imported brands, are available locally. Many apartments come with air conditioners already installed. Ceiling and portable fans are available. Because AC is used extensively in the summer, electric bills can run as high as NT$6,000 to NT$10,000 (US$200 to US$350) per month depending on apartment size and numbers of AC units in use. The desirability of reverse-cycle air conditioners is debatable. They are useful but expensive to run.

Cable TV

Most households in Taiwan have cable TV. The cost is about NT$600 (US$20) per month. Services vary, sometimes from month to month, but generally you can get CNN, BBC, Discovery, HBO, Cinemax, Fox, ESPN, National Geographic, Star World, Star Movies, HGTV and some other channels. Parents will want to monitor their children’s viewing because some channels have objectionable content. Online video streaming services are available in Taiwan — including Netflix, HBO Go, and Amazon Prime Video — but with a varying selection of channels and content compared to other countries.

Clothing Washers and Dryers

New and used U.S.-made washers and dryers are available locally, but they are more expensive than in the USA. Locally made washers and dryers are usually quite small. Whirlpool, Maytag, and Kenmore are widely sold here and are more easily serviced. If you purchase a new machine to bring here, it is advisable to bring a stackable type to use the limited space in apartments. Many people, especially those with families, feel a dryer is a must due to the high humidity in Taipei. Selfservice laundry is also available around the Tianmu area.

Heaters and Dehumidifiers

It is damp here and cold during the winter months. Houses and apartments are not insulated. You may require heat. Electric heaters as well as kerosene or oil-filled heaters with fans are available. Clay convection electric heaters are excellent and are also available. Dehumidifiers are an effective means of combating moisture and mildew problems. Most families will include a dehumidifier in their shipping or purchase one soon after arriving.

Ranges and Ovens

A limited variety of new and used U.S. units are available. Gas cooking is more common and cheaper than electric; either bottled or local city gas is used. Most Taiwanese do not bake, so ovens are in limited supply. Locally, two-burner hot plates are popular. A broiler oven or microwave might be a nice option to consider because of the heat in Taiwan. Shipping a stove is not recommended. You can easily purchase a gas oven but they tend to be smaller in size than what many people may be used to having.

Refrigerators

New and used U.S.-made refrigerators are available. Variety is good though cost is somewhat higher than in the U.S. Locally-made refrigerators are available but typically are smaller than U.S. models.

Small Appliances

Toaster/broiler ovens, microwaves, mixers, blenders, electric fry pans, popcorn poppers, electric blankets, radios, hair dryers, and vacuum cleaners and bags are all available in Taipei at reasonable prices. Oftentimes controls are only in Chinese or Japanese, and you may need to get help from Mandarin-speaking colleagues to know how to operate them. The English-speaking AM/FM radio station provides world news as well as popular and classical music. You may want to bring a radio that is battery-operated or has a battery backup. Occasional electrical outages occur, usually during a typhoon, when you want to listen to the weather report.

Stereo, TV, and Video Equipment

These items are available at reasonable cost in Taiwan, but selection is limited to items with mostly Chinese controls.

Household Goods

Prices in Taiwan have been coming down in recent years and the availability of western goods continues to expand. If, however, you find bargains in your home country or want a particular brand or model, it is advisable to make your purchases there and include them in your shipment.

Bedding

U.S.-made mattresses and box springs are available in Taiwan though more expensive than in the U.S. Local beds are good, but tend to be firm; you should note that U.S. king-sized beds are larger than a Taiwanese king. Imported bed and bath linens are available but expensive. Local bedding is available at reasonable prices; however, sizes tend to run smaller than in the U.S. Flat sheets can be hard to find because stores tend to sell sets with fitted sheets, pillow cases, and comforter covers. Because of our cold, damp winters, you may want to include an electric blanket or at least warm blankets or comforters. Towels, pillows, sheets, comforters, and blankets are available locally. You will want to bring along some sheets and towels in your luggage or purchase them in your first few days, as your shipment probably will not be here when you first arrive.

Furniture

Rattan furniture and custom-made upholstered furniture are readily available. IKEA and other large stores offer a good selection of midline western furniture at prices somewhat higher than the U.S. Large selections of rosewood and teakwood furniture are available at a much higher cost. Upholstering can be done.

Kitchen Utensils and Dinnerware

Kitchen utensils, cookware, glasses, dinnerware, stainless steel flatware, storage containers, dish drainers, and cutting boards of U.S. and European quality and variety are available. Locally made kitchen and dinnerware are of decent quality and relatively inexpensive.

Rugs

Most apartments are not carpeted. A large variety of area rugs are available. Prices depend on size and quality. Wall-to-wall carpeting also is available at a reasonable price.

Clothing and Personal Care

Children’s Clothing

A wide variety in every price range can be found here in Taiwan. Children’s clothing is plentiful and inexpensive. Children wear t-shirts and shorts to school as weather permits. Bring pajama sleepers with feet, if desired.

Footwear

It is recommended that you bring at least one pair of walking shoes that are comfortable and tested by time for use when you first get here. Sandals are good for summer and early fall. Warm house slippers for winter and waterproof boots for the rainy season are good choices. Tennis, jogging, and walking shoes are readily available, though brand names are more expensive. Men’s and women’s larger size dress shoes are somewhat more difficult to find.

Jewelry

The high sulfur content in the air in Taipei tarnishes silver very quickly. Some people cope with this with frequent polishing and using plastic bags for storage.

Lingerie, Hosiery, Swimsuits

These items are all available though it can be difficult to find larger sizes. You may want to bring knee-highs with you. Bring support hose and special surgical stockings if required.

Personal Care Items

Imported personal care and cosmetic items, including such basics as sunblock, shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, shaving creams, and tampons are all readily available in area grocery and drug stores. Prices in large discount stores are fairly reasonable. You may want to bring along your favorite skin care products, as many Taiwanese women prefer those that whiten their complexions. Hair color kits, if you use them, should be shipped, although you can find salons in the Tianmu area and downtown that provide professional hair-coloring services.

Rain Gear

Come prepared for rain! Bring all-weather coats, rain jackets, ponchos, boots, and any rain gear you choose to wear. Umbrellas (for the rain and for UV protection) are inexpensive and readily available here.

Summer Clothing

It is advisable to bring linen, cotton and/or cotton-blend clothing. Shorts for men and women are generally acceptable casual wear. You may want to consider bringing clothing with built-in UV protection.

Winter Clothing

Taiwan’s climate is subtropical, but it still gets relatively cold here. Bring winter clothes and outerwear! There is no central heating in most homes. If dampness and cold affect you adversely, you may want to bring wool socks and/or thermal underwear. A variety of sweaters, jackets, and sweat suits are available locally in a variety of sizes and prices.

Shopping

Local Markets

Taipei abounds with high-energy, people-packed local markets. Some sell vegetables, fruit, prepared dishes, clothing, housewares, and other basics, while others specialize in antiques, jade, fabric, or flowers. Visiting markets is a popular activity and bargains can be found.

Grocery Stores

Tianmu and the surrounding areas have several options for groceries, including 24-hour Carrefour Markets, higher-end Japanese style markets, shops specializing in western brands, as well as internationally known distributors like Costco and Ikea.

Stores in Taipei You May Recognize

• 7-Eleven

• Adidas

• Apple Store

• AVEDA Salons

• Birkenstocks

• Carrefour

• Costco

• H&M

• IKEA

• Levi’s Store

• Lululemon

• Nike Store

• Panasonic

• Rockport Shoes

• Watsons

• ZARA

Restaurants in Taipei You May Recognize

• Chili’s Grill and Bar

• Domino’s Pizza

• Gordon Biersch

• Hooters

• Jamba Juice

• Kentucky Fried Chicken

• Krispy Kreme Doughnuts

• McDonald’s

• Pizza Hut

• Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse

• Starbucks

• Subway

• Texas Roadhouse

• TGI Friday’s

Banks, Debit Cards & Credit Cards

The School will help you establish an account with Mega Bank, a local Taiwanese bank with ATMs at school and throughout Taipei. Mega offers debit cards, accounts, currency exchange, wire transfers, and other services to teachers; bank officials visit the School daily so wire transfers can be transacted easily. Many teachers choose to keep accounts open in their own countries and move money between the two. Mega offers online banking in English.

Debit cards for your Mega Bank account can be used at many stores as well as at Mega Bank ATMs; in addition, you can make up to seven cash withdrawals a month from non-Mega ATMs without any fees. Faculty use debit cards or cash to pay for most of their daily expenses and to pay their utility bills. Banks do not offer checks, and some foreigners moving to Taiwan take a while to adjust.

It is advisable to bring at least one valid credit card with you from abroad; you may want to research cards that charge minimal or no transaction fees for use outside of your home country. In Taiwan, credit cards can be hard for foreigners to obtain; however, TAS can assist you to secure a no-fee Mega Bank credit card, which may prove useful as a backup for charging travel and other expenses in Taiwan.

Books

You may want to bring a supply of pleasure-reading materials with you. If you like to purchase your own books, there are several bookstores near the School with English materials. Best sellers and travel books are readily available. Books do tend to be expensive, though occasionally editions are cheaper here in Taiwan. The school libraries are extensive and available to faculty members; in addition, faculty members share their books in an informal lending library in the faculty lounge.

Dining

Taiwan is renowned all over Asia for its delicious food. Most of the world’s favorite foodstuffs and beverages are available here. In addition to Chinese and Taiwanese foods, you can find American hamburgers, juicy prime rib steaks, Italian pizza and pasta, fresh Japanese sashimi, Mediterranean hummus and shaved lamb, German pig knuckles and sauerkraut, spicy Korean kimchi, Swiss fondue, Thai curry, chocolate, and much more at various restaurants and markets. Taiwanese seafood restaurants, hot pot restaurants, and bubble tea shops are plentiful and popular. There are also bars, outdoor beer gardens, beer houses, and traditional British and Irish pubs to quench your thirst after a busy day.

Domestic Help

An “amah” will clean, cook, and babysit, as the job requires. The day wage for a day-amah who lives in her own home is about NT$2,000-NT$3,000 (US$ 65-$100) per day. Monthly wages for an English speaking amah who lives in your home range from NT$30,000 to NT$40,000 (US$1,000-1,350). Monthly wages for an amah who provides significant child care (10 hours a day) and does some cleaning and cooking (and who does not live in your home) range from NT$40,000 to NT$50,000 (US$1,350-$1,670). Wages may vary as job expectations and English proficiency requirements can differ.

Driver’s Licenses

An international driver’s license, along with a license from your home country, will assist you in being able to drive in ROC. Both are required for renting a car. To drive a motorcycle you must have a motorcycle license; you need either 1) a motorcycle license from your home country, plus an international motorcycle license, plus an ROC permit or 2) a motorcycle license from ROC (issued after a written test and a driving test). To drive a car in ROC, you must apply for a ROC permit to drive a car (or very small scooter) with your international license. There are some variations in requirements depending on reciprocity between your home country or state and Taiwan. Check with the HR Office for more information and the latest government regulations on driving permits before you come to Taiwan.

Home Internet

All TAS faculty members must maintain broadband access to the Internet in their apartments in Taipei, so that they can use the School’s online classroom software. A high-speed connection is recommended. If the connection is not already available in your apartment, your real estate agent can help you set up the service.

Utilities

Fuel for stoves and hot water heaters is usually natural gas or bottled gas. Normal use will cost about NT$800 to NT$1,000 (US$25 to US$35) per month. Electricity costs vary substantially, but it is expensive. City water is about NT$600 to NT$1000 (US$20 to US$35) per month. Bottled water is readily available; faculty can arrange for delivery of 20-liter bottles to their apartments. High-quality water filters can also be found locally.

Often your phone line comes with the rental of your flat. A new telephone line may be purchased for about NT$2,000 (US$65). International directdial costs are reasonable, and international phone calling cards can be purchased easily. Increasingly faculty use Skype, LINE, WhatsApp, or Facebook Messenger to stay in touch with family and friends.

Once you have established a residence and collected a set of utility bills, you can arrange for automatic deduction from your bank account. Alternatively, bills can be paid at local convenience stores such as 7-Eleven and Family Mart.

Learning Chinese

Taiwan is an ideal place to learn Chinese, also called Mandarin, Huayu, Guoyu, Hanyu, Putonghua, and Zhongwen in Chinese-speaking communities around the world. Over the new teacher orientation, TAS provides survival Mandarin sessions for incoming teachers and families to get to know the Chinese. It’s a great way to start your Chinese lessons. There are also around 60 local government-approved language learning centers for you to continue your learning.

Mobile Phones

The three main cell phone carriers in Taiwan are Chunghwa, Taiwan Mobile, and Far Eastone. Service contracts and pay-as-you-go services are both available. Each carrier has specific requirements for getting service, but all require that you have an ARC card. Some faculty choose to use their own phones from other countries and insert a local SIM card; others take advantage of special offers for free or highly discounted smartphones that are available with one- or two-year service contracts; others choose to purchase prepaid SIM cards for use with an existing cell phone.

Local Transportation

City buses run on many routes and are inexpensive (NT$15 or US$.50); the MRT (subway) is another convenient and inexpensive way to get around the city. Both can be crowded during rush hours. Taxis are plentiful and available at the wave of a hand; the meter starts at NT$70 (US$2.33), and a trip downtown from Tianmu usually costs less than NT$350 (US$13).

Cars and fuel are expensive, though some bargains can be found by purchasing second-hand automobiles. Many people recommend that you consider living without a car and renting when necessary. Parking in Taipei is extremely limited. There is an extensive waiting list for space in the School’s parking garage.

Bringing Pets to Taiwan

Taiwan has very strict import rules for animals entering the country, which you should be prepared to follow exactly. The current regulations from the Bureau of Animal and Plant Health Inspection and Quarantine can be found here at https://www.baphiq.gov.tw/en/.

Cats or dogs brought into Taiwan are subject to several requirements and minimum seven day quarantine. One requirement deserves special attention: your pet needs to have a blood sample taken at least 90 days prior to shipment. If prospective teachers arrange to have the blood sample taken by mid-March, they could enter Taiwan in July and expect only seven days in quarantine for their pet.

Check with the HR Office for more information and the latest government regulations on pet import permits and quarantine requirements if you intend to bring your pet(s) to Taiwan. It is recommended to look into pet transport well in advance as many airlines have changing regulations on allowing or not allowing pets to fly in the cabin.

Religious and Recreation Facilities

There are English-speaking religious congregations of many affiliations throughout Taipei.

For those who like physical exercise, TAS opens its pool for faculty, and the Tiger Health and Wellness Center is available and equipped with state-of-the-art exercise equipment. There are also avid groups of cyclists who tour the surrounding area, as well as school-sponsored volleyball, basketball, tennis, golf, and other sporting activities. If you prefer not to sweat while you socialize, there are a changing variety of options available such as book clubs, tap dancing, and Chinese cooking.

One can also find a diverse array of fitness facilities in the Tianmu neighborhood such as health clubs, pilates and yoga studios, and community exercise equipment in many public parks.

American and international clubs in Taipei offer dining and recreational facilities (tennis, bowling, swimming, and organized programs) for all age groups. The American Club Taipei has a special membership fee for TAS faculty.

The Taipei Youth Program Association (TYPA) provides organized sports, crafts, and other activities for children grades K-12. TYPA also coordinates Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts.

Vacation Planning

While living in Taiwan, travel reservations should be made well in advance to assure confirmation of requested bookings. Teachers make their own travel arrangements through local travel agents or through online sources. Returning TAS teachers are delighted to share information about travel in Taiwan and in the region.

Helpful Acronyms

ACC American Club Taipei

AIT American Institute in Taiwan

ARC Alien Resident Certificate

CSC Community Services Center

ICRT International Community Radio of Taiwan

NT$ New Taiwanese Dollar

ROC Republic of China

TAS Taipei American School

TECO Taipei Economic and Cultural Office

TPE Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport

TYPA Taipei Youth Program Association

If you are interested in knowing more information with regard to living in Taiwan and local resources, you may visit the following websites:

• Taiwan Tourism Board

https://eng.taiwan.net.tw/

• Life of Taiwan

http://lifeoftaiwan.com/

• Community Services Center in Taipei

http://www.communitycenter.org.tw/

• Foreigners in Taiwan

http://www.foreignersintaiwan.com/

• Taiwanese Secrets

https://www.taiwanese-secrets.com/

• “Taiwan an island of tranquility in a sea of troubles,” Taiwan News

https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/ news/3690458

• “The 9 Things Expats Love Most About Taiwan,” Culture Trip

https://theculturetrip.com/asia/taiwan/ articles/the-9-things-expats-love-mostabout-taiwan/

Regional Map with Flight Times

Photos courtesy of Unsplash.com

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Learning to Appreciate a Modern Miracle: Taiwan

Reprinted with permission by William Stanton, Taiwan News

It is not surprising that many, perhaps most, people around the world do not know about Taiwan. After all, China -- with the support of more and more countries -- has isolated Taiwan diplomatically for more than forty years, and recently China has been campaigning to eliminate even the name of Taiwan as a global destination. Following the demise of Mao Zedong, China increasingly prospered and attracted business people, tourists, and students from around the world, who too often have bypassed Taiwan. Once, for example, almost everyone wishing to learn Mandarin came to Taiwan, but most now go to China.

What is more surprising, however, is that many Taiwanese themselves do not sufficiently appreciate their own country. Taiwanese often ask me with a puzzled look, why I live in Taiwan. Over time, I have come to believe this reflects both a native modesty, but also perhaps a misperception of Taiwan’s place in the world, a lack of knowledge of the extraordinary accomplishments of their own country, and to some extent therefore a lack of confidence in Taiwan. Such attitudes need to change.

TAIWAN IS A MIDDLE POWER

As Professor Bruce Jacobs, the leading Australian expert on Taiwan, first argued, Taiwan is a “Middle Power” in the world. As a country with some 23.5 million people, Taiwan has in fact more people than 77% of the world’s countries and territories, according to the CIA’s World Factbook (WF). Although Taiwan’s land area is relatively small, it is still larger than 46% of the world’s nations and territories.

Taiwan’s economic strength also ranks it as a “Middle Power.” Although under the influence of China, the World Bank

states “Taiwan, China, is not listed as a separate country for World Development Indicators,” we know from other sources that, according to 2017 estimates, Taiwan ranked 22nd in the world in total GDP in Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) terms. In per capita GDP (PPP) — which many economists regard as a better measure of an economy’s strength — Taiwan ranked 28th in the world, better than Australia (29), Canada (34), the UK (39), France (40), Japan (42), South Korea (46), Israel (55), and China (105) (WF).

TAIWAN’S GREAT ECONOMIC AND BUSINESS SUCCESS

Taiwan’s other economic rankings are equally, if not more impressive. As of October 2018, Taiwan was the 11th largest U.S. trading partner (U.S. Census Bureau). In the Heritage Foundation’s Index of Economic Freedom for 2019, Taiwan ranked 10th out of 186 countries, ahead of Germany (25), South Korea (27) Japan (30), Israel (31), France (71), and China (110). In the Global Economic Forum Competitiveness Report for 2018-19, Taiwan ranked 13th, ahead of Australia (14), South Korea (15), France (17), Israel (20), and China (28). In the World Bank’s 2019 “Ease of Doing Business” rankings, “Taipei, China” earned

13th place, ahead of Australia (18), Canada (22), Germany (24), France (32), Netherlands (36), Japan (39), and China (46).

Although Taiwanese often complain about their country’s wealth gap, Taiwan’s GINI Index (which measures the gap between the rich and the poor) indicates it actually ranks in the top third of countries with the smallest gaps. Out of 156 countries and territories ranked in the WF, Lesotho and South Africa are in 1st and 2nd place respectively with the greatest gaps, but other places not doing well either are Hong Kong (9), China (31), Malaysia (32), Singapore (38), and the U.S. (41). Taiwan, however, ranks in 112th place.

TAIWAN IS ALSO A LEADER IN TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION

The U.S. Patent and Trade Office (USPTO) reports that Taiwan ranked 5th in the world in 2015 and 2016 and 6th in the world in 2017 and 2018 in the number of patents granted by the USPTO. Only the U.S., Japan, South Korea, and Germany, and more recently China, surpassed Taiwan. This is all the more remarkable considering Taiwan’s much smaller population.

Taiwan is also a world leader in new technologies like nanotechnology. It ranked 4th in 2016 and in 5th in the world in 2017 (the last year for which statistics have been published) in USPTO nanotechnology patents. According to Taiwan Today on February 16, 2019, Taiwan maintained its global lead in integrated circuit 200mmequivalent wafer fab capacity for the 4th consecutive year. Based on a report by the semiconductor research firm IC Insights Inc., as of December 2018, Taiwan enjoyed a global share of 21.8%, ahead of South Korea (21.3%), Japan (16.8%), North America (12.8%), and China (12.5%).

Taipei itself ranked 1st in Asia and 5th among the world’s most technologically advanced 85 cities, according to a study commissioned by Business Insider published on Aug. 8, 2017 based on such factors as the number of patents filed per capita, number of startups, and the level of smartphone use. Taipei, the only

Asian city in the top 5, led other cities in industrial design, hardware, the number of headquarters of some of the largest PC companies, and the number of venture capitalists.

Aside from its many excellent universities, Taiwan has also scored 4th is the world in science and math in the influential “Program for International Student Assessment” test rankings in 2015. The exams, run by the Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development, are given every three years to 15-year-olds in more than 70 countries.

DEMOCRATIC, AND HAPPY…. Economic

FREE,

and technological achievements are not, however, the only reasons why Taiwan is such a great success and such a great place to live. Taiwan is also a vibrant democracy, where freedom, rule of law, and human rights are all fostered and protected. This is something which the U.S. officials who negotiated establishing relations with the PRC never foresaw. In fact, while the seeds of democracy were always here, Taiwan’s transition to democracy really only took 10 years — from 1986 to 1996 — an amazingly quick transition. It is hardly surprising therefore that since 1996 Taiwan’s democracy has only grown stronger. In Freedom House’s 2018 survey of global freedom, Taiwan ranked tied for 8th place in freedom out of 210 countries in the world. Embarrassingly enough, the United States only ranked tied for 15th place. Taiwan’s aggregate freedom score was 93 out of 100; the U.S. 86; Hong Kong 59; and the PRC 14.

Freedom indeed plays a key role in the quality of life in Taiwan. In the annual, originally UN-initiated World Happiness Report for 2018, Taiwan ranked 1st in Asia in “happiness,” ahead of Singapore (34), Japan (54), South Korea (57), Hong Kong (76), and China (86), and ranked 26th in the world overall among 156 countries and territories. The six key variables on which the rankings are based are those found to support a sense of well-being: freedom to make life choices, per capita income, social

support (caring and having someone to count on in times of trouble), healthy life expectancy at birth, generosity, and perceptions of corruption (which indicates good governance, honesty and trust).

...AND VERY FRIENDLY

While Taiwanese generally appreciate the benefits their country affords them — whether virtually free health care, free or very inexpensive education, convenient transportation, accessible cities, excellent restaurants, wonderful cultural opportunities, and great scenery — they don’t always appreciate how attractive life in Taiwan also is to foreigners. But there is considerable evidence that foreigners really like Taiwan as well.

Among all the countries in the world where expatriates live, Taiwan Ranked 1st in 2016, 4th in 2017, and 2nd in 2018 in the online “InterNations Expat Insider” survey of “Best Countries for Expats.” In 2018 Taipei also ranked 1st in the quality of urban living, and also scored in the top five for all indices in InterNations expat city ranking. The report highly praised Taipei, saying that no expats in the other ranked cities were as satisfied with the availability, affordability, and quality of medical care, as well as local transportation and personal safety. (Numbeo’s Crime Index for 2019, based on online surveys, similarly ranked Taiwan as the 4th safest country in the world, after Qatar, Japan and the United Arab Emirates.)

The InterNations survey also gave Taipei a 1st place ranking in 2018 for the general friendliness of the Taiwanese and their positive attitude toward foreign residents. An overwhelming 94% highly rated the general friendliness of locals in Taipei. Likewise, customers of Booking.com — one of the largest e-commerce travel companies — selected Taiwan as the 5th most friendly country in the world in 2018.

As the Taiwanese people consider the future of their country, it is necessary that they appreciate and value the extraordinary success they have already achieved.

It is also necessary that those who are too willing to dismiss Taiwan as a country worth helping to support and defend also understand Taiwan’s unique achievements.

William A. Stanton has served since 2017 at National Taiwan University (NTU) as a Professor at the Center for General Education and subsequently also as the Chief Advisor to NTU’s International College Provisional Office. Dr. Stanton previously worked for four years as the founding Director of the Center for Asia Policy at National Tsing Hua University (NTHU).

From October 2014 through January 2016, he was also NTHU’s Senior Vice President for Global Affairs. Dr. Stanton previously served for 34 years as a U.S. diplomat. His final posting was as Director of the American Institute in Taiwan (2009-2012).