AmeriCorps is a network of national service programs that engage more than 50,000 Americans each year in intensive service to meet critical needs in education, public safety, health and the environment. Created in 1993, AmeriCorps is part of the Corporation for National and Community Service, which also oversees Senior Corps and Learn and Serve America. Together these programs engage more than two million Americans of all ages and backgrounds in service each year.

MTEC's AmeriCorps

MTEC has acquired a grant to provide teachers involved in an MTEC program the opportunity to also volunteer to become AmeriCorps members. The goal of the MTEC-AmeriCorps program is to promote active citizenship and develop civically responsible teachers.

A major component of the MTEC-AmeriCorps program is the service learning project. In service learning, MTEC-AmeriCorps teachers link the curriculum taught in the classroom to service in the community. For example, a study of society class might result in a project to collect and distribute food, clothing or heal and beauty supplies. Each student selects his/her own project.

Using service learning as a teaching strategy not only makes learning more relevant to students, but it prepares the next generation to become aware, active, and engaged citizens.

Upon successful completion of the MTEC-AmeriCorps requirements, including implementation of a service learning project, teachers will be eligible for an education award voucher. The voucher, in the amount of $4725, can be applied to qualified existing education loans and/or can be applied to the cost of tuition if the teacher decides to further his/her education.

Eligibility

Participants in MTEC's certification program or Master's in Education program are eligible to participate in the AmeriCorps program.

Eligible candidates can register for the program at the beginning of the school year, usually in late September or October.