Lifelong Learning:

Army University Access Online - eArmyU.com

The US Army has created one of the most innovative programs of higher education in the world -- Army University Access Online (known as eArmyU). eArmyU provides access to quality education for enlisted soldiers across the globe, helping them further their professional and personal goals and providing the Army with top preparation for its forces. eArmyU supports the goal of transforming the military into an Objective Force capable of responding to the diverse and complex demands of the 21st century. eArmyU brings together a unique collaboration of colleges and universities offering a broad range of educational opportunities. eArmyU offers approximately 154 programs from 25 different educational institutions. Through eArmyU, soldiers have the opportunity to earn a certificate, associate, bachelor or master's degree from a home institution while taking courses from multiple colleges and universities.

eArmyU offers unique flexibility to soldiers. Web-based courses can be completed anytime and anywhere, allowing soldiers to study at times that are most convenient for them -- wherever they are stationed.

eArmyU provides soldiers with the tools they need to succeed in the online environment. Once enrolled, soldiers receive up to 100% funding for tuition, books and course fees, as well as a personal laptop, email account and an Internet Service Provider (ISP) account. Soldier-students are responsible for obtaining and paying for their own local telephone service which includes any per-minute charges that apply in some overseas locations. In addition to 24-hour technical support, eArmyU provides soldiers with assistance in determining a program of study, registering for courses and transferring credits. eArmyU is among a series of dynamic changes that the Army is engaging in to transform the Army. Specifically, the mission of eArmyU is to:

• Increase retention by allowing soldiers to earn credits, degrees and certificates at low or no cost to them while they serve on active duty
• Develop educated, technology-savvy soldiers who will succeed in the missions and on the battlefields of the 21st century.

As of August 2003, 12 U.S. installations and 2 international installations (in Germany and Korea) participate in the eArmyU program.

For more information, go to eArmyU.com

Troops to Teachers Open to Reserve Components

The National Education Association says the worst teacher shortage ever is now approaching. Reserve component service members can help alleviate the problem because last January they were included in the Troops to Teachers program. Under the program, the Department of Education and the Defense Department team up to help qualified service members transition to civilian teaching careers. The goal is to recruit quality teachers for schools serving low-income families and to relieve teacher shortages. Eligible individuals may receive up to $5,000 to offset teacher certification expenses and an additional $5,000 bonus if they teach in a school serving a high percentage of students from low- income families. Basic qualifications include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution or one year of college with six years experience in a vocational or technical field.

For more information on becoming a teacher go to:

Proud to Serve Again

Sources: Armed Forces News - Friday, October 11, 2002
NEWS YOU CAN USE - Association of the United States Army Publication, August, 2000.