Meet Katia Marie Francisque! We had the honor of supporting Katia’s first move into teaching abroad at the ISS 2019 San Francisco job fair, where she accepted a position with Dalian American International School, China. This past academic year, ISS was pleased to again support Katia’s success at another step in her international school journey: she now serves as a Kindergarten Teacher at BASIS International School – Wuhan.

In this feature, hear Katia’s reflections on what drew her to international education, what excites her about this new position at BASIS — plus, how growth, goals, authenticity, and faith inspire her work.

Hello Katia, please introduce yourself! What should we know about you?

I’m a native New Yorker. My family originates from Haiti, a country located in the Caribbean Islands. Like many of the students I teach today, I grew up in a bilingual home setting and had the opportunity to thrive academically in the American private school culture. Living in “The Big Apple”, I was surrounded by a diverse community that embodied various languages. I witnessed different backgrounds through music, food, and the performing arts. My grandmother encouraged me to learn Haitian-Creole as a child and fostered my interest in teaching, as she was an extraordinary childcare provider. She taught me the importance of ensuring the well-being of every child in my charge.

Katia teaching a children’s mindful movement after school activity (NYC, 2018)

Congratulations on your new role at BASIS International School – Wuhan! What are you excited to experience in your next school and country?

While I have lived in China previously, I am excited to experience post-Covid life there! I welcome the opportunity to travel to new cities. What excites me most about my new position is the emphasis on inquiry-based learning in the early years. I have maintained an interest in developing professionally in this area. I also look forward to incorporating mindfulness as a tool for building character and community. Throughout my career, supporting children in mindfulness has been a priority in my classroom. As a founding teacher of BASIS Wuhan, I am humbled to be a part of a remarkable team; thus, establishing an exemplar environment for students and families.

And finally, any advice for other educators thinking about taking their career abroad?

My advice to educators considering an international position for the first time is to reflect on their purpose for wanting to teach abroad. In what areas are they looking for growth? Having a plan and purpose can help drive their search as well as provide support when situations become challenging.

There is great benefit in taking the time to research schools of interest. It is necessary to ask questions, consider factors of personal importance, and avoid the tendency to get discouraged if doors close. Remove limitations on prospective opportunities and bear in mind that the ideal position may not be packaged as you imagined.

I advise educators to work with a recruitment organization to assist in their search of finding quality schools. I have received multiple job offers through International Schools Services.

I also encourage educators to keep an open mind and learn about the culture they intend to work in. It is helpful to familiarize oneself with basic language phrases in daily life in addition to cultural norms. For many of us, teaching internationally takes us miles away from our home. It is a commitment not to be taken lightly. Remaining connected to relationships back home helps to ease the transition to new beginnings.

Lastly, I inspire educators to never forget where they come from. Being true to who you are allows you to show up authentically for your students and community. For those who believe in a higher power, keep your faith at the center of what you do and don’t be afraid to take risks.​