When De La Salle University brought Benjie Lou and Francis Saez together during their graduate studies in special education, neither could have predicted how far their shared passion for learning support would take them. What began in classrooms in the Philippines would eventually lead them across continents, through some of the world’s leading international schools, and into a life shaped by purpose, partnership, and a deep commitment to students.
Francis still laughs when he talks about how their story began, joking that Benjie followed him everywhere after graduate school—from his first placement to the International School Manila (ISM). After marrying, the couple continued teaching together in California before accepting positions at Nagoya International School. Most recently, they completed a three-year contract, Francis as Learning Support Specialist and Benjie as EAL Specialist at Hanoi International School. Their next chapter will take them to China, continuing a professional life that has spanned cultures, countries, and communities. Throughout much of that time, Search Associates has been part of their story, helping them navigate each transition with confidence.
Their early years at ISM opened Francis and Benjie’s eyes to the possibilities of international education. Surrounded by strong leadership, supportive colleagues, and meaningful professional development, they began to imagine what life abroad could offer—not only for themselves as educators, but also for their family. Wanting their son Sebastian to grow up with a global perspective and experience life as a third culture kid, they began exploring opportunities beyond the Philippines.
After learning about Search Associates (SEARCH) through colleagues at school, Francis and Benjie registered immediately. For a teaching couple navigating hundreds of potential schools, the guidance and structure proved invaluable.
We find using a recruitment agency very useful. It helped us filter through hundreds of international schools during recruitment. It also helped us narrow down which schools to apply to, especially those that could match our career paths and our teaching philosophies. In addition, we were able to learn more about the benefits packages offered by different schools. It is reassuring to know that SEARCH carefully filters the schools that seek to join, so we can trust that we are applying at a good institution that values their staff…Throughout our journey, we have been incredibly fortunate to work with Senior Associates Jennifer and Bob Imholt. Since the very beginning of our international careers, their support and expert guidance have played a big role in helping us navigate the recruitment process.
For Benjie and Francis, learning support is about far more than instructional strategies or academic interventions. What continues to inspire them most is watching students discover their strengths, develop independence, and begin to advocate for themselves.
The real reward comes from helping students develop self-determination, learn to advocate for themselves, and feel empowered as neurodiverse individuals. Being able to support students and their families on this experience is what truly makes me love being an educator.
Over the years, the couple has attended five SEARCH job fairs, including Cambridge, San Francisco, Singapore, and most recently Bangkok. Each experience brought new insights, new opportunities, and new lessons.
The experience was different at each fair…We were not successful at our first job fair, but after that, we were able to secure great positions in each fair we attended. The first rejection really taught us how to prepare better and what schools were really looking for. If we plan to move in the future, we will definitely attend a fair again.
Preparation has become one of their greatest strengths. Long before attending a fair, Benjie and Francis begin researching schools, building application timelines, and organizing priorities in a shared Google document. With their son’s academic and personal needs always part of the conversation, every decision becomes a family decision. “This keeps us on the same page and ensures we don’t miss any deadlines,” Benjie explains. They also personalize every application, crafting thoughtful cover letters and researching each school community carefully. “We always prioritize what is best for our family,” Francis says. “We discuss the career path we want to take, whether we will pursue leadership positions or explore different teaching roles…We also spend time researching each school and location individually.”
Their international life has also profoundly shaped Sebastian, Grade 9. Growing up in multicultural communities has helped him develop confidence, adaptability, and respect for others. Through international curricula, cultural celebrations, athletics, school trips, and friendships across borders, he has developed a worldview that continues to expand with every move. “These kinds of global experiences helped him develop a broader perspective that would be difficult to replicate in a stateside school,” Francis shares.
As they prepared to accept their next positions at Suzhou Singapore International School (SSIS), the family once again approached the process thoughtfully—researching the school through the SEARCH platform, speaking with former faculty, and learning about daily life in the local community. They were drawn not only to the school’s strong International Baccalaureate program and inclusive culture, but also to the professional growth opportunities and family-friendly environment.
For Benjie and Francis, international education continues to offer something new with every chapter—new perspectives, new friendships, and new opportunities to grow. “We are also removed from local politics, which allow us to focus more on teaching. In addition, we get to meet colleagues and friends from all over the world, which gives more richness to our professional and personal lives,” says Francis. Benjie agrees. “I am constantly learning and upgrading my practice through quality professional development and the rich cultural exchange from my colleagues, families and students I meet. It pushes me to be a better educator and a more globally minded person.”
After nearly two decades in education, multiple countries, and countless lives impacted, their advice for educators considering international teaching remains practical, honest, and encouraging:
Start early and be open-minded about different locations and schools. It is important to research schools carefully and understand what you and your family need before applying. Networking with colleagues who have international experience can also be very helpful. We also recommend using recruiting agencies, as they help narrow down options and provide useful information about schools and packages. Finally, be flexible and patient during the process, because finding the right fit can take time, but it is worth it in the end.
