Every day on this board there is more evidence that proves why it is NOT a good idea to work at a training centre. The situation that Stephanie described is not just happening in Suzhou, it is endemic all over China.

Although I suspect I am actually responding to one of StephanieB's many aliases, I will say I think you have gotten things a little turned around. Suzhou Foreign Language School is NOT a training center (like EF or Web). It's actually a well-respected K-12 private school where people are clamoring to get their children in.

I am in no way a manager in this school, rather an assistant "academic" director of one department who teaches 4th grade primary in all subjects. My other duties consist of: ordering textbooks and supplies, giving my opinion on potential new-hires, helping the other foreign teachers with various minor problems and situations . . tasks in that vein. "StephanieB" is correct in saying that a long, long time ago I worked for Pizza Hut (not Papa John's) before I went to my university and earned my degree in elementary education. Not only am I fully qualified to teach 1st through 8th grade, I also had a few years under my belt of experience back in the states before I landed on Chinese soil. When it comes to hiring and firing, pay issues, accommodations, and those sorts of things, I have no control at all. I will say the school pays its QUALIFIED teachers very well and provides nice apartments, bonuses, and other nifty perks.

So, now you may throw barbs my way and that's your right in this, the most anonymous of internet forums, but I just thought I'd set the record straight. Thanks so much.