Teacher Certification in Alaska
American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence is now authorized to certify teachers in Alaska, with a focused initiative supporting military veterans in the Anchorage School District. Through the Green to Teach initiative, transitioning service members can move directly from military service into meaningful careers in education. With this opportunity, teacher certification in Alaska is now easier than ever for Military Veterans.
American Board offers the only approved Green to Teach pathway in Alaska.
A Natural Transition from Military Service to Teaching
Military service builds leadership, discipline, and resilience. These qualities translate directly into the classroom, where structure and strong role models matter.
Alaska leaders recognize the value veterans bring to schools and communities. Lt Col James Fowley, Military Advisor to the Alaska State Board of Education, shared:
“As the military advisor to the State Board of Education, I understand the challenges Alaska faces with teacher recruitment and retention. As a lifelong member of the military whose wife and family members are educators, I believe Green to Teach creates a powerful opportunity for service members to continue serving others by bringing their leadership and servant mindset into the teaching profession.”
For many service members, teaching offers a stable and impactful next step. It allows them to continue serving others while building a long-term career.
Why Alaska Needs Teachers Now
Alaska continues to face teacher shortages, especially in key areas like Anchorage. Schools need committed, capable educators who are ready to lead in the classroom.
At the same time, many military members are transitioning to civilian life and seeking meaningful work. This initiative connects those two needs in a practical way.
Commissioner Deena Bishop of the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development explains:
“Through the American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence—Green to Teach initiative, military members transitioning from active duty have a meaningful opportunity to continue contributing to their communities in Alaska’s classrooms. Alaska has a proud history of honoring the military, and our state is a natural place for those who have worn the uniform to transition to their lifelong homes.”
This pathway supports both the education system and those who have already served.
How the Program Works
American Board’s program is designed to be clear, efficient, and accessible for working adults and military members. Candidates move through a structured process that leads directly to certification. Click here to learn more.
First: Enrollment
- Submit the Green to Teach pre-approval form to American Board
- Receive an enrollment discount code
- Enroll online using the provided code
- Receive a welcome email and begin the program
Second: Program Completion
- Prepare for and pass the Professional Teaching Knowledge (PTK) Exam using online coursework
- Pass Alaska’s required subject-area exam in your chosen field
- Submit your subject exam scores to American Board
- Receive your certificate of completion
Final: Post-Program
- Provide your American Board certificate to Alaska DEED
- Retain documentation for your Alaska Initial Teacher Certification application
Designed for Military Life
This pathway is built with military transitions in mind. It offers a fully online and self-paced structure, which allows candidates to move forward on their own schedule.
There is no required student teaching semester, and no need to attend in-person classes. The program focuses on what matters most, which is demonstrating knowledge and readiness to teach.
This approach gives military members the flexibility they need while maintaining high standards.
Start Your Journey
If you are a service member or veteran considering your next step, this pathway offers a clear and practical option. You can build a stable career while continuing to serve your community.
With strong support from Alaska leaders and a streamlined certification process, now is the time to take that next step. American Board offers the only approved Green to Teach pathway in Alaska.
FAQs
Can anyone use the Green to Teach pathway for teacher certification? The Green to Teach program is designed and reserved specifically for Military Veterans.
Does this lead to state-approved teacher licensure? Yes! The Green to Teach program has the backing of the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development.
How much does this certification pathway cost? At $1,000.00 total, American Board offers its lowest cost for our Military Veterans. Our way of saying ‘thank you’ for serving and helping to get more Veterans in our classrooms. American Board’s program is the most affordable path to certification.
Anything else I need to know? You can find additional supporting documents below. Please contact American Board at info@americanboard.org to secure your discounted Military enrollment rate.
