Military members teach community Published Sept. 17, 2009 By Airman 1st Class Brittany Y. Bateman 2d Bomb Wing Public Affairs BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- Barksdale Airmen attended the Troops to Teachers workshop Sept. 10 at the Airman Family and Readiness Center. Troops to Teachers provides information to help an individual become a teacher. This workshop is targeted at military members who are not only interested in a second career in education, but it also helps recruit quality teachers upon departure from the military. "I attended the workshop to gain a better understanding of the program," said Chief Master Sgt. Wayne Atchison, 608th Air Communications Squadron superintendent. "I specifically wanted to learn the qualification requirements, application timelines, program expectations, required certifications and funding support. Basically general program information to help me make a better decision as to whether this is a career path for me." The Troops to Teachers workshop is for all active-duty and Department of Defense civilians and is facilitated by Louisiana Troops to Teachers director and education office. "It gives you the right information for planning, for moving ahead or beyond the military and at the same time, lets you know that your talents gained are not lost," said Chief Atchison. "I thought the course was presented in a manner that left you wanting more, more answers as well as more of a desire to serve again. It was informative but not overwhelming." Troops to Teachers is a Department of Education and DOD program that helps eligible military personnel begin a new career as teachers in public schools where their skills, knowledge and experience are most needed. "It is important because it gives you the information you need to make a more informed second career decision as well as let you know that teaching is not too far from what most military members are used to on a daily basis," said Chief Atchison. "You are able to continue using your leadership, mentorship and military characteristics in an environment, helping and educating children, who may not have these role models in their lives." The program assists candidates by giving all possible options of how to get into the classroom and advice and information on the available avenues of how to achieve required state mandated certifications. "If you are thinking of separating from the military and are interested in teaching and giving something back to the community this would be an excellent career decision," said James Snyder, community readiness consultant. For more information go to the website, www.proudtoserveagain.org or attend the Troops to Teachers workshop at 10 a.m. Dec. 17 at the A&FRC.