Airmen prepare for future with Troops to Teachers Published Nov. 25, 2008 By 305th Mission Support Squadron Education office McGUIRE AIR FORCE BASE, N.J. -- Education Services recently hosted its last 2008 Troops to Teachers briefing in its new location, Bldg. 3829 in Falcon Courts North. Troops to Teachers is a program designed to assist eligible military personnel to transition to a new career as public school teachers in "high-need" schools. Funding has been appropriated to provide financial assistance to eligible participants, provide placement assistance and maintain a network of state offices. Pending availability of funds, financial assistance may be provided to eligible individuals as stipends up to $5,000 to help pay for teacher certification costs or as bonuses of $10,000 to teach in schools serving a high percentage of students from low-income families. Participants who accept the stipend or bonus must agree to teach for three years in the area. Melissa Fantozzi, State of New Jersey Department of Education TTT program coordinator, provided information on certification requirements, routes to state certification, employment leads, the job referral system, and links to state Department of Education offices. "Early preparation is crucial and can begin two years prior to separation," she said. Ms. Fantozzi will evaluate transcripts, advise on courses required to qualify to teach and assist in the certification process prior to separation. Troops to Teachers is an excellent opportunity for military personnel interested in teaching as a second career in the K-12 public school system, a 305th MSS Education office staff member said. Education requirements to teach an academic subject include a baccalaureate or advanced degree from an accredited institution and six or more years of service on or after Oct. 1, 1990. Vocational/Technical teacher requirements include one year of college with six years of military experience in a vocational or technical field to meet state requirements. Education Services hosts quarterly TTT briefings. The 2009 schedule will include briefings Feb. 19, May 21, Aug. 20 and Nov. 19.