The Troops-to-Teachers Program was envisioned to help eligible military personnel begin a new career as teachers in public schools where their skills, knowledge and experience are most needed.
Within the commonwealth public schools, these servicemembers are provided support from the Public School System leadership headed by Education Commissioner Dr. Rita A. Sablan.
“They are very involved and I have never seen such great deal of commitment from them at imparting their knowledge and experience to our school children,” Sablan said of the servicemembers who are now employed at the different public schools on Saipan, Tinian and Rota.
As the commonwealth celebrates May 17 to 21 as Support Our Troops Week, the school system and its leadership reiterated their commitment and support on all servicemembers and to all those that have found teaching as their second career. And over the years, the PSS leadership continues to recognize their immense contribution.
PSS has provided service members the flexibility to take college courses after instructions hours, and one had graduated and earned a bachelor degree through the troops to teachers program.
They are also recognized for their perfect attendance, teacher aide of the week, and even taking them out for lunch once in a while for appreciation. Also, they are given pay differential for after-school programs and fringe benefits that include annual leave, sick leave, compassionate leave, military training leave, administrative leave, court leave, maternity/paternity leave, and family and medical leave.
Hard work
Joe D. Mostales now teaches at Dandan Elementary School after completing his tour-of-duty in Germany. In May 2007 he received his associate degree and is now working on pursing his bachelor of arts degree in elementary education.
“I joined the program Troops-to-Teachers which gave me the opportunity to work and attend college at the same time. This program has helped me to further my educational endeavor,” he said.
What Hopwood Junior High School principal Jonas Barcinas has learned from the military was the respect about work and to learn to appreciate everything.
“I learned the value of hard work rather than taking things for granted which many would do. I find it rewarding being an Army reservist because I am part of an elite and professional team which in turn helped me to become who I am today,” Barcinas said, adding that “soldiers are passions and committed to making a difference in each and every child’s life.”
Patrick Antonio of DES has aimed high when he enlisted with the military. And when he joined the school system, it brought out the best in him.“ As a veteran airman I was taught discipline, values, excellence and character.
The Troops-to-Teach Program brought out the best of that and it is important to do so especially when working with students,” said Antonio who will now be a graduating with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. “It prepared me for a career in teaching.”
Garapan Elementary School’s Isaac Aguon said it is equally fulfilling. “My (students) interest in my duty as a soldier has given me the opportunity to share my experience and by letting them understand that the most important part of it is to serve and protect our country.”
Rosa Camacho, also of GES, is proud of her service. “I take pride in the uniform I wear and the country I serve.” She is now on her fourth year of teaching at biggest public elementary school in the Commonwealth.
Tanapag Elementary School’s Brandon T. Demapan joined the school in March 2008.
“Tanapag Elementary School loves you and salutes you,” TES said in a statement. Demapan is now pursuing his degree in elementary education.
The Special Education Program hired Magic Cabrera, an Army Reservist for three years, as one of its teacher aides since Sept. 2008. And one of his contributions for the program is how he helped “build character and rises to the challenge of teaching and learning.”
Jemma Quitugua Manibo’s experience in the military has brought her many education-related opportunities, both in military and civilian life.
Now teaching at Dandan Elementary School, she said, “I love the positive energy that I receive, feel, and give every day, from the moment I clock in.”
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