I'm in the US, 40 years old, have a spouse and kid, looking to teach in Japan. I did a 6-year stint in the military, have an MA in Linguistics and BA in TESOL, have taught ESL to adults at community college 2 years, and have worked for the US government as a language program manager for 2 years. I love teaching, so I'm currently in the process of getting my state teaching license for my state (should be easy, just need to finish the exams).
Are there realistic prospects for teaching in Japan in a real teaching position? It seems all I can find besides the paid service Internat'l School placement sites are JET, Eikaiwas (no), and Westgate (which looks like a uni Eikaiwa, so also no). And the wages for every post on Ohayo-sensei are unlivable with a family (and often way lower than even just the JET program).
I feel underqualified for an International School since I don't have years and years of teaching experience (despite my age), is that an incorrect hunch? I am overqualified to be an ALT. I like teaching and planning my own lessons.
Might I have prospects at a private school? Will they sponsor visas for people who aren't already in Japan, if so do you just apply directly on each school's website? Or do I have to spend yet another year of my life not-really-teaching in a beginner program that doesn't even require educator credentials like JET first just to get my foot in the visa door?
Thank you for your help and time. <3
Updated:
Thank you so so much everyone for taking the time and effort to share your advice and insights. It's very helpful in weighing our options.
by Jenn_Brown7