Brian Schlumbohm
Byline'
FORT WAINWRIGHT, Alaska - A Troops to Teachers seminar for active, reserve and retired military, was held at the Digital Training Center on Fort Wainwright, Aug. 16.
It was a full classroom of Soldiers, airman, military retirees and Education Center employees, all present to find out more about how the program works and what opportunities there might be for a career in education after military service. Representatives from the State Teacher Certification Office, Western Governors University, Northern Plains Transition to Teaching and the University of Alaska were also available to take questions and offer assistance and advice.
Education Services Officer, Farthest North Army Education Center, Jerri Tuck, said the seminar was coordinated for Soldiers and airmen from the surrounding area to give them information on the program and what it might offer.
"Troops to Teachers is a joint Department of Education and Department of Defense program that helps eligible military personnel begin new careers as teachers in public schools where their skills, knowledge and experience are most needed," Tuck said.
Although Alaska doesn't offer an on-site program, this particular "Teaching as a Second Career" seminar was sponsored by the Lewis & Clark Regional Office with Montana State University. This office has offered to help by taking on any individuals interested in participating in the program and would have the services and experience of the Montana State University's regional TTT program and personnel.
One of the attendees, an Alaska Air National Guard, 168th Air Refueling Wing, 168th Maintenance Group Deputy Commander, Lt. Col. Leigh Scarboro said, "I had always heard about the program. In fact, I thought it was defunct until I got the newsletter through the education office." She said she considered teaching as a second career because of the great influence teachers have on children. As a parent she's seen firsthand how educators shape the futures of kids.
"We have many friends that were my children's teachers that have definitely made an impact on them," she said. Though Scarboro already possesses a master's degree, the need for an added 18 to 24 months of schooling is evident with the high demands of being a teacher in today's schools. During the seminar attendees were made aware they could receive up to $10,000 in financial assistance which can be used along with GI Bill benefits.
Other positive attributes of the program are the ability to be accredited through online programs, receiving stipends for tuition, books and education-related expenses and once the degree has been attained, a bonus for teaching in high-needs schools.
For any military member the availability of financial support makes the program worth looking at, Scarboro said. "It will definitely assist military members to make the transition."
Those interested in learning more about this program may contact the Education Center at 353-7486.
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