Department of Education to help military family members become teachers

The Ohio Department of Education, acting on an executive order from Gov. John Kasich, is eliminating fees for educator licenses to recognize the contributions of military families.

Beginning this year, the fees for any initial Ohio educator license, permit or certificate – or for a renewal – will be waived for candidates who are veterans or current service members of all branches of the United States Armed Forces, including the National Guard or Reserves. Spouses of active duty service members also may receive a license free of charge.

“Service members, veterans and their families make many sacrifices – this is just a small way to thank them and show them how much we appreciate those sacrifices,” said Richard A. Ross, superintendent of public instruction at the Ohio Department of Education. “Thanks to Gov. Kasich, veterans, members of the National Guard and Reserves, current service members and the spouses of current service members will have their licensure fee waived.”

• In addition, all eligible military applicants and their spouses will be able to use G.I. Bill program benefits to pay fees associated with taking the Ohio Assessments for Educators licensure examinations.
• The Ohio online educator license application system will collect data on the number of license applicants who have served in the military or who are the spouse of a military service member, in order to strengthen and expedite services provided to these individuals.

Veterans and military members should also be aware of existing policies that will help streamline the licensure process.

• The One-Year Out-of-State Educator License – Incoming licensed teachers from other states – including service members, spouses of service members and veterans of the U.S. armed forces – may obtain this license soon after applying. This license simplifies interstate mobility and employment since it allows someone to teach for a year in Ohio while they are meeting any additional requirements they may need for full licensure in Ohio, such as passing a licensure exam.
• Military Extensions to Ohio Licenses – State law permits a member of the National Guard or a member of a reserve component of the armed forces of the United States who is called to active duty and who, at the time of deployment, holds a valid educator license in Ohio, is entitled to have the license extended for a period of time commensurate with the length of active duty service, provided the educator is honorably released from that active duty service. (Ohio Revised Code 3319.284).
• The Ohio Credential Review Board – This board assists individuals who are pursuing alternative routes to Ohio licensure by taking into consideration factors such as successful experience, academic qualifications and professional accomplishments that may serve as a basis for meeting licensure requirements through alternative means.

For more information, visit the Ohio Department of Education website.