The "Teach and Inspire" program is offering individuals with a bachelor's degree a look into a career in teaching.

"We're really excited about these events in Mississippi," said program spokesman Mike Holden. "We're looking for more great new teachers, and we're excited to be working with all these districts to try to find them."

The program that allows people to become fully licensed teachers and possibly even have classrooms of their own will be explained in an information session on Wednesday, officials said. The American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence (ABCTE) will host free information sessions on its Teach & Inspire Scholarship Program at the Lincoln County Public Library at 5:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Holden said the meetings are worth attending even if an individual is not sure if the program is for them or not.

"If anyone is considering a career in teaching, we encourage them to come to these events," he said. "They're free, and if someone can't make it in person, they can find the presentations on our Web site."

Holden directed Web surfers to www.abcte.org/inspire, saying that the program is self-paced and almost entirely online in order to make it easier for people who already have a job and are trying to fit the education into their schedules.

Teach & Inspire participants then make a three-year commitment to teach their subject in a Mississippi school, officials said. Participants must already have attained a bachelor's degree.

The American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence lists their mission as being "a non-profit organization, dedicated to recruiting, preparing, certifying and supporting dedicated professionals to improve student achievement through quality teaching. ABCTE offers an innovative teacher preparation and certification program for highly knowledgeable individuals who want to change careers and become teachers."

Holden said those looking for more information or to download an application can visit the ABCTE Web site or call 877-669-2228.