Q: What is Troops to Teachers?
A: Troops to Teachers is a program designed so that every service member interested in a career in teaching will receive assistance to transition his or her leadership, training, and core values to teaching in K-12 schools. Our mission is to assist transitioning service members with meeting the requirements necessary to become teachers and with finding employment as a teacher when eligible.
Q: Who is eligible for the program?
A: Current, separated or retired members of the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard, Reserve components and National Guard. If you served, we are here to serve you!
Q: How much does Troops to Teachers cost?
A: Nothing!
Q: What services are provided through Troops to Teachers Virginia Center?
A: Services include individualized counseling and transition planning, navigating state teacher licensing requirements, connecting participants with hiring officials, ongoing support and mentorship, networking opportunities, and possible financial incentives.
Q: What type of financial assistance is available through Troops to Teachers?
A: When Troops to Teachers was a fully funded program, a stipend or bonus payment of up to $10,000 was available for eligible participants. The last day to submit a stipend or bonus application for financial assistance was June 30, 2020.
Q: How do I apply for Troops to Teachers services?
A: The following states currently provide service members and veterans limited counseling and referral services: Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. If you are interested in teaching in a state that continues to provide services. Learn more HERE.
Q: Is Troops to Teachers a teacher preparation program?
A: No–Troops to Teachers is a program that supports teacher preparation for service members and veterans. We assist you in finding your perfect teacher preparation program based on your goals, previous education, and job experience.
Q: How do I choose the best way to get licensed in Virginia? Is there a way to get licensed quickly and start teaching right away?
A: We wish there was an easy answer! There are many requirements that must be met to become a teacher in Virginia, though some TTT participants may have already met some of these requirements through previous education and work experience. Choosing a route to teacher licensure is an individual decision and needs to take into account a participant’s goals, financial situation, previous education, and military and job experience. We recognize that the process can be confusing. Luckily, we work with you to plan the route to getting a teaching license that is perfect for you!
Q: Will I have to attend the College of William & Mary if I participate in Troops to Teachers Virginia Center?
A: No. Troops to Teachers Virginia Center is housed at William & Mary in the School of Education in Williamsburg, Virginia, but we encourage participants to choose the college or university that best fits their needs. This may include attending any one of the outstanding institutions in Virginia for either a traditional teacher preparation program or a career switcher program.
Q: Will I have to take the Praxis?
A: To get a license to teach in Virginia, you will eventually have to pass the Praxis test. However, when you take these tests varies depending on the route to licensure that you choose. Before taking any tests, we encourage you to sign up for TTT and contact the Virginia Center so that we can provide you with current information based on your specific situation.
Q: Who do I contact for more information?
A: Feel free to contact the Troops to Teachers Virginia Center with any questions you may have along the way. You can reach the Virginia Center at 757-221-3415 or tttvirginia@wm.edu.