DeSantis Calls on Veterans to Apply for Temporary Teaching Certificates: ‘Most Veteran and Military Friendly State’
August 11, 2022 Updated 1:58 P.M. ET
TALLAHASSEE (FLV) – Gov. Ron DeSantis issued a call to action for Florida resident veterans to apply for a temporary teaching certificate, set to be valid for five years until the veteran earns a bachelor’s degree.
“Florida is the most veteran- and military-friendly state in the nation,” DeSantis said. “We also know that our veterans have talents and skills that they can offer our students. This new opportunity expands Florida’s existing programs that help our veterans take their talents to our schools, and it will help Florida remain a national leader in education.”
“Florida is leading the way by bringing some of the best, the brightest, and the bravest among us into our classrooms through a new program that helps military veterans become teachers.”
On August 17, the Board of Education will consider a rule to officially implement the program for veterans to receive the temporary education certificate while they pursue a degree under SB 896, signed earlier this year with unanimous bipartisan support.
“With the skills and experience that our 1.7 million veterans bring to Florida’s workforce, this new pathway to teaching will positively impact Florida’s students,” Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr. said. “Veterans and servicemembers can now work toward their full professional certificate while imparting their unique knowledge and valuable experience in the classroom.”
The Pathway to Certification:
– At least 48 months of military service with honorable/medical discharge
– At least 60 college credits with a 2.5 grade point average
– Passing score on a Florida subject area examination
– Employment in a Florida school district, including charter schools
– Cleared background screening
DeSantis slammed “too rigid” of requirements to become a teacher because of “union bosses” forcing teachers to receive credentials he argues have “little impact” on teaching performance.
“Every morning, our students recite the pledge of allegiance while looking at the star spangled banner, and it’s fitting that the teacher in the classroom is somebody who took an oath and put his or her life on the line to preserve, protect, and defend our flag and the freedom it represents,” he continued.
Once expired, the certificate may not be renewed.
Watch DeSantis’ announcement video here.
