IBM trains staff to become high school teachers
By Vanessa McQuarrie

Technology company IBM has launched the Transition to Teaching Program initiative to give US employees the skills necessary to teach high school maths and science in their local communities when they retire.

The Transition to Teaching Program is designed to help address the critical shortage of math and science teachers in the US.

"Many of our experienced employees have math and science backgrounds and have made it clear that when they are ready to leave IBM they aren't ready to stop contributing," said IBM's Stanley Litow.

"They want to continue working in positions that offer them the opportunity to give back to society in an extremely meaningful way. Transferring their skills from IBM to the classroom is a natural for many – especially in the areas of math and science."

The program will begin as a pilot and, if successful, will expand. Other companies could become involved, too.

Those taking part will study traditional and online courses, participate in a mentoring program and work as a student teacher for up to three months before completing the program.

Almost 45,000 IBM employees worldwide already volunteer, many in their local schools.

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