Georgia is receiving $1.3 million to help U.S. military veterans begin careers in teaching.

The Georgia Department of Education received a $1,324,170 grant from the U.S. Department of Defense to administer the Troops to Teachers grant program in partnership with the Georgia Professional Standards Commission.

The program assists transitioning service members with meeting the requirements necessary to become teachers, and helps program participants find employment as a teacher when eligible.

“Our military veterans have already demonstrated extraordinary courage, skill, and leadership,” State School Superintendent Richard Woods said. “They are well-suited to the education profession, and I’m so pleased that this partnership will assist our veterans who want to continue their service in the classroom.”

Veterans share common skills and traits that allow them to serve effectively as classroom teachers, including leadership, adaptability, communication skills, initiative, discipline, and integrity. And school administrators have found that veterans interact effectively with parents, community members, and other teachers and staff, according to Troops to Teachers.

“Our military veterans have given so much to our country,” said Kelly Henson, Executive Secretary of the Georgia Professional Standards Commission. “We are delighted to be able to provide some opportunities for them. And, the partnership between GaPSC, DOD and GaDOE will be a great platform to deliver these opportunities.”