Joel Hefley: “I am introducing the Troops to Teachers Program Improvement Act of 1999. This legislation will enable retiring military…”

“I am introducing the Troops to Teachers Program Improvement Act of 1999. This legislation will enable retiring military personnel to find rewarding second careers as teachers in our Nation's public schools. As we all know, our schools and students are in desperate need of more high-quality teachers. This bill, which I am introducing with the support of my colleagues, the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Edwards), the gentleman from California (Mr. Gallegly) and the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Hill), will help provide those teachers. This bill not only reauthorizes Troops to Teachers, but also strengthens and improves the enormously successful program. Troops to Teachers was created in 1994 to assist military personnel who were affected by military downsizing find second careers in which they could utilize their knowledge, professional skills and expertise in our Nation's schools. The program offers counseling and assistance to help participants identify teacher certification programs and employment opportunities. Since its authorization in 1994, Troops to Teachers has helped over 3,000 active duty soldiers enter our Nation's classrooms and make significant contributions to the lives of our students.”