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Much has been written about the difficult transition from military to civilian life, with many veterans struggling to find their place within the culture and society that they have labored and sacrificed to protect.
The unemployment rate for post-9/11 veterans is 6.2 percent, compared to3 percent for those with a bachelor’s degree—another four-year post-secondary training program. In response, organizations like Make the Connection, Wounded Warriors and others have emerged, supplementing work being done through the VA.
In Colorado, School Leaders for America is one organization doing more than providing transitional support for veterans: Through it’s Troops to Principals program, the organization is tapping the leadership and organizational skills of veterans and training them to adapt those skills to lead schools and districts. During the one-year alternative program, veterans take 32 course credits and work as intern school leaders at their desired elementary, middle or high school level. After completion of the program, the veterans are issued a school leader licensure from School Leaders for America and the district in which they interned.
The program is still young, but showing promise for its 30+ candidates. And could be a win-win for districts looking for strong leadership and veterans looking to find ways to serve in civilian settings.