PA Governor Wolf Announces $1.6 Million for Troops for Teachers Program

Harrisburg, PA – Governor Tom Wolf today announced that his administration has secured a $1.6 million, 5-year Troops to Teachers grant. The program, managed by the Department of Defense’s Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES), makes federal funding available to recruit and help military veterans who are considering a career in teaching.

“Pennsylvania has a proud military heritage and is home to many tremendous veterans who want to continue serving their community,” said Governor Wolf. “The Troops for Teachers program is a great way for veterans to bring their knowledge and skills to our classrooms, which benefits veterans and our students.”

Under the state’s Troops to Teachers program, veterans who are interested in pursuing a career in teaching are provided with counseling services on teacher education requirements and programs, as well as guidance around the teacher certification process and referrals to employment opportunities. In some cases, veterans are eligible for bonuses if they choose to teach in a high-need school.

“As Pennsylvania explores new approaches to generating a diverse pool of educators – and especially with a growing emphasis on STEM education – in many cases veterans or service members may be a great fit for the commonwealth’s classrooms,” Education Secretary Pedro A. Rivera said. “Service members are known for their initiative, commitment, and leadership skills, which can make them successful when transitioning from the armed forces to our state’s schools.”

With the grant, the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) has also funded a PA Regional Partnership program, led by Slippery Rock University (SRU) to recruit eligible veterans into specially-tailored, one-year post-baccalaureate teacher certification programs in secondary STEM and in world languages. SRU and West Chester University are offering the program.

Service members often learn about the Troops to Teachers program when separating from active duty service. Additionally, to reach veterans, PDE includes Troops to Teachers information in a mailing to military members residing in Pennsylvania when they separate from service.

For information about the program, visit Troops to Teachers or the Department of Education.