Troops to Teachers

All current and former members of the U.S. Armed Forces may participate in the program for counseling and employment facilitation services.

Those who meet certain education, military service and application requirements may also be eligible for TTT financial assistance of up to $10K to support their transition to the classroom. Requirements vary, but program application within three years after retirement or separation from service is required for many members.

Financial assistance in the form of a stipend or a bonus may be available to participants who meet military service, education and application requirements and have an honorable discharge if separated or retired. Additional conditions and restrictions apply.

Military service requirements to receive financial assistance include:

• Honorable character of service if separated or retired

• Any member who, on or after October 1, 1999, becomes entitled to retired or retainer pay (must apply within three years of retirement date)

• Any member who has an approved date of retirement that is within one year after the date on which the member submits an application to participate in the program

• Any member who, on or after January 8, 2002, is retired or separated for physical disability (must apply within three years of retirement or separation date)

• Any member who has been transferred to the Retired Reserve

• Any member who, on or after January 8, 2002, has completed a total of at least six years of active duty service, six years of reserve service and signs a reserve commitment agreement for a period of not less than three years (must apply within three years of active duty separation date)

• Any member who, on or after January 8, 2002, is separated or released from active duty after four or more years of continuous active duty immediately before the separation or release and signs a reserve commitment agreement for a period of not less than three years (must apply within three years of active duty separation date)

Stipends:

Stipends of up to $5,000 may be available for eligible participants to assist with obtaining the required education level, teacher certification, and licensing.

• Must be enrolled in an accredited institution that will result in licensure as a full-time teacher.

• Commit to full time teaching in an eligible or high need school for a period of three years.

• If not retired or discharged due to service-connected physical disability, must commit to serve three years in reserves.

A participant may not receive a stipend if eligible for chapter 33 (Post 9/11) benefits.