New OHIO scholarship empowers veterans to become educators and help address teacher shortages

In an exciting initiative designed to empower veterans and their families while addressing critical teacher shortages in Ohio, the Patton College of Education in collaboration with the Veterans and Military Student Services Center at Ohio University has launched the OHIO Patton Empower Veteran Education (VetEd) program. This innovative scholarship provides veterans, transitioning military members, and their spouses with a unique opportunity to earn a teaching license and a master’s degree, fully funded with support from the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce and the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services.

“Veterans bring invaluable leadership skills, adaptability, and resilience—qualities that are deeply needed in today’s classrooms,” said Terry St. Peter, director of the Veterans and Military Student Services Center at Ohio University. “This scholarship not only helps veterans transition into meaningful second careers but also supports schools in Southeast Ohio that are facing growing teacher shortages.”

Comprehensive support for veterans as educators

The VetEd program offers more than financial aid. In addition to the $14,265 scholarship, VetEds will benefit from a $733 per semester stipend (totaling $2,200), funding to attend the Ohio Middle Level Association annual conference and dedicated academic advising. Participants will join a peer cohort of seven fellow VetEds and have access to career workshops, mentoring, and professional development through partnerships with multiple Ohio University departments.

As part of the program, students must enroll in one of Ohio University’s nationally recognized teacher education programs, which lead to licensure in Middle Childhood Education or Adolescent-to-Young-Adult Education. The one-year, in-person program begins in the summer and includes intensive internship experiences in local schools during the fall and spring semesters.

Danielle Dani, Patton College associate dean for research and graduate studies and professor in the Department of Teacher Education, emphasized the importance of this program in addressing regional challenges. “Teacher shortages in Southeast Ohio are real, and it’s important to have educators who are not only qualified, but also deeply committed to their communities,” she said. “Veterans bring a unique perspective and sense of service that can truly make a difference in the lives of students.”

Addressing Ohio’s teacher shortage crisis

Ohio, like many other states, faces a growing need for qualified teachers. School administrators are struggling to fill positions, and in some cases, improperly certified teachers are filling classrooms. The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services predicts a 6.9% growth in demand for educators by 2030, highlighting the urgency of recruiting and retaining new teachers. “This scholarship program is one way we are responding to this need, especially for upper elementary, middle, and secondary school mathematics and science,” Dani said.

This scholarship initiative addresses the shortage by offering veterans a clear path to licensure and employment in Ohio schools. In return, participants must commit to teaching in the state for at least three years after graduation.

“This scholarship is an opportunity for veterans to serve their communities in a different way—by educating the next generation and shaping the future of Ohio,” added St. Peter.

How to apply

Interested veterans, transitioning service members, reserve and guard component members, and their spouses are encouraged to apply by April 15. To be eligible, applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree and gain admission to one of the Patton College’s approved master’s programs. Additionally, participants must meet program expectations, including maintaining a GPA of 3.0 or higher and participating in all VetEd activities.

Applications can be submitted through the Ohio University Graduate Admissions portal. For more information on the scholarship and eligible programs, visit the Teacher Education Scholarships for Veterans page.

This partnership reflects Ohio University’s ongoing commitment to serving its military-connected students and families. Through innovative programs like VetEd, OHIO continues to build a supportive environment where veterans can thrive academically and professionally.

“Ohio University has always been proud of its military-connected students,” St. Peter said. “This program strengthens that legacy, ensuring veterans and their families are supported as they transition into careers that serve our communities.”

Disclaimer: This article and affiliated academic programs are not endorsed by any service branch of the U.S. Armed Forces.