Guide/Appendices and Resources

Appendices and Resources

< h2 > Checklists and Timelines

The following checklists and timelines provide practical tools to help military families navigate key educational transitions and milestones. These resources can be adapted to your family's specific circumstances and used as frameworks for planning and preparation.

School Transition Checklist

3-6 Months Before Move:

  • Contact the School Liaison Officer (SLO) at your current and gaining installations
  • Research schools in the new location (public, private, DoDEA, charter, homeschool options)
  • Review school websites, performance data, and special programs
  • Identify specific programs your child needs (special education, gifted, ELL, etc.)
  • Request current school records and review for completeness
  • Check Interstate Compact provisions that may apply to your situation
  • Research graduation requirements if moving during high school
  • Identify extracurricular activities and tryout schedules at new location
  • Begin discussions with children about the upcoming school change

1-3 Months Before Move:

  • Schedule exit interviews with current teachers and counselors
  • Request letters of recommendation for special programs
  • Obtain copies of IEP/504 plans and most recent evaluations
  • Collect samples of student work that demonstrate abilities
  • Organize a portfolio of academic achievements and extracurricular activities
  • Contact the new school to understand registration requirements
  • Schedule placement tests if required by the new school
  • Research summer programs in the new location to ease transition
  • Develop a plan for completing current school year/semester

2-4 Weeks Before Move:

  • Organize hand-carry educational documents (don't pack in household goods)
  • Include immunization records, birth certificate, and proof of residency
  • Confirm withdrawal process and timeline with current school
  • Return all school materials (textbooks, library books, equipment)
  • Back up digital school projects and assignments
  • Create contact information list for current teachers and friends
  • Plan appropriate goodbyes and closure activities
  • Prepare questions for new school orientation
  • Discuss expectations and concerns about the new school with your child

Arrival at New Location:

  • Connect with the School Liaison Officer at the new installation
  • Complete school registration process
  • Request a school tour before the first day if possible
  • Meet with school counselor to discuss course placement
  • Provide copies of all educational records
  • Discuss special needs and accommodations with appropriate staff
  • Review transportation arrangements and schedules
  • Purchase required school supplies and appropriate clothing
  • Locate key places in the school (classrooms, cafeteria, gym, etc.)

First Month at New School:

  • Schedule meetings with new teachers within first two weeks
  • Establish communication channels with teachers and staff
  • Monitor homework completion and understanding
  • Check in daily with your child about school experiences
  • Watch for signs of transition stress or academic struggles
  • Help your child connect with peers and activities
  • Attend school events and volunteer if possible
  • Verify records have been received and properly interpreted
  • Confirm appropriate placement in classes and programs

Ongoing Monitoring:

  • Schedule follow-up meeting with teachers after 4-6 weeks
  • Review first progress report or report card carefully
  • Address any academic or social concerns promptly
  • Adjust support strategies based on transition progress
  • Connect with other military families at the school
  • Continue to monitor emotional adjustment to the new environment
  • Maintain communication with school staff throughout the year
  • Document successful transition strategies for future moves
  • Celebrate successful adaptation and achievements

Deployment Education Support Timeline

Pre-Deployment:

  • Inform school staff about upcoming deployment
  • Meet with teachers to discuss potential impacts on the student
  • Establish communication plan between deployed parent and school
  • Update emergency contact information and authorization forms
  • Discuss homework and academic expectations during deployment
  • Create a family calendar marking important school events
  • Record the deploying parent reading books or helping with homework
  • Prepare comfort items for school (photos, special notes)
  • Discuss how to handle deployment questions from peers
  • Connect with school counselor for available support resources

Initial Deployment Period (First Month):

  • Monitor changes in behavior, academic performance, or attendance
  • Maintain consistent school routines and homework schedules
  • Check in with teachers about any concerning changes
  • Provide age-appropriate updates about the deployed parent
  • Establish new after-school routines if needed
  • Connect with Military Family Life Counselor if available
  • Consider joining deployment support groups at school or installation
  • Create a system for sharing school news with deployed parent
  • Maintain regular sleep schedules to support school performance
  • Allow for adjustment time and extra emotional support

During Deployment:

  • Schedule regular check-ins with teachers (every 4-6 weeks)
  • Send updates and school work to deployed parent regularly
  • Arrange video calls with deployed parent during special school events when possible
  • Monitor academic progress and address any issues promptly
  • Maintain connection with school support personnel
  • Consider tutoring or homework help if needed
  • Encourage participation in deployment support programs at school
  • Document school achievements to share with deployed parent
  • Be aware of emotional triggers around special school events
  • Maintain communication with teachers about any concerning changes

Pre-Reunion (1 Month Before Return):

  • Inform teachers about upcoming reunion
  • Discuss potential adjustment behaviors with school counselor
  • Prepare for possible academic and routine changes
  • Help child create school-related welcome home items
  • Discuss realistic expectations for parent's attendance at school events
  • Prepare for potential school absences during reunion period
  • Create a plan for reintegrating parent into school routines
  • Organize school work and achievements to share with returning parent
  • Discuss with child how to handle excitement at school
  • Prepare teachers for potential behavioral changes during reunion

Post-Deployment:

  • Gradually reintegrate returning parent into school communication
  • Schedule time for returning parent to meet teachers
  • Update school records and emergency contacts
  • Monitor child's school behavior and performance during readjustment
  • Maintain consistent routines while incorporating returning parent
  • Be patient with academic performance during reintegration
  • Discuss any school concerns that arose during deployment
  • Celebrate educational achievements accomplished during deployment
  • Consider counseling if school difficulties persist
  • Document successful strategies for future deployments

College Application Timeline

As noted in the April 2024 article, "Early planning is essential for military families navigating the college application process, especially with the possibility of PCS moves during high school."

9th Grade:

  • Meet with high school counselor to plan four-year course schedule
  • Understand graduation requirements and college preparatory courses
  • Begin exploring potential career interests
  • Participate in extracurricular activities and community service
  • Develop good study habits and organizational skills
  • Create a system for tracking achievements and activities
  • Explore summer enrichment opportunities
  • Begin researching military-connected college benefits
  • Take challenging courses appropriate to ability level
  • Establish relationships with teachers and mentors

10th Grade:

  • Take the PSAT for practice
  • Continue involvement in extracurricular activities with increasing responsibility
  • Research college options and admission requirements
  • Attend college fairs and information sessions
  • Consider taking SAT Subject Tests in completed courses
  • Explore dual enrollment or advanced placement options
  • Begin investigating scholarship opportunities
  • Consider military academy or ROTC interest and requirements
  • Maintain strong academic performance
  • Update achievement and activity records

11th Grade:

  • Take the PSAT/NMSQT in October (National Merit Scholarship qualifying)
  • Prepare for and take the SAT and/or ACT (spring semester)
  • Research colleges more intensively (size, location, programs, cost)
  • Visit college campuses when possible
  • Meet with college representatives at school events
  • Begin gathering information for applications
  • Identify teachers for recommendation letters
  • Take leadership roles in activities when possible
  • Attend financial aid and college planning workshops
  • Create a master calendar of application deadlines
  • Consider how potential PCS moves might affect application process
  • Research in-state tuition options for military dependents

12th Grade:

  • Retake SAT/ACT if needed (early fall)
  • Finalize college list with safety, match, and reach schools
  • Request letters of recommendation (early fall)
  • Complete and submit applications before deadlines
  • Complete FAFSA as soon as possible after October 1
  • Apply for scholarships (ongoing throughout year)
  • Send mid-year reports as required
  • Compare financial aid offers
  • Make final college decision by May 1
  • Request final transcript be sent to selected college
  • Complete housing applications and orientation registration
  • Apply for military-connected benefits if applicable

The April 2024 article emphasizes that "Military families should pay particular attention to state residency requirements for tuition purposes and explore the many scholarships specifically available to military dependents."

Elementary School Year-by-Year Checklist

Kindergarten:

  • Establish consistent school routines and homework habits
  • Create a dedicated homework space
  • Develop regular communication with teacher
  • Read with your child daily
  • Practice basic math concepts through everyday activities
  • Monitor development of fine motor skills
  • Support social skills development and friendship building
  • Attend parent-teacher conferences and school events
  • Begin record-keeping system for educational documents
  • Explore extracurricular activities based on interests

1st-2nd Grade:

  • Monitor reading progress and provide appropriate materials
  • Support math fact fluency development
  • Establish regular reading time beyond school assignments
  • Encourage writing through journals, letters, and stories
  • Develop independence in homework completion
  • Watch for signs of learning difficulties
  • Explore interests through appropriate activities
  • Limit screen time and encourage active play
  • Discuss school experiences daily
  • Maintain communication with teachers

3rd-4th Grade:

  • Support transition to more complex academic content
  • Monitor homework completion and understanding
  • Encourage development of study skills and test preparation
  • Support increasing reading comprehension demands
  • Provide opportunities for writing in various formats
  • Develop organizational and time management skills
  • Encourage critical thinking and problem-solving
  • Support healthy peer relationships
  • Begin discussions about long-term interests and strengths
  • Continue participation in extracurricular activities

5th Grade:

  • Prepare for transition to middle school
  • Visit middle school and attend orientation events
  • Discuss increased responsibility and independence
  • Develop stronger organizational systems
  • Support completion of culminating elementary projects
  • Encourage self-advocacy skills development
  • Discuss course selection for middle school
  • Address any academic gaps before middle school
  • Support healthy technology habits
  • Celebrate elementary school completion

Middle School Planning Checklist

6th Grade:

  • Establish new organizational systems for multiple classes
  • Create homework and study schedules
  • Develop relationship with school counselor
  • Support adaptation to multiple teachers and classrooms
  • Monitor use of planner or digital organization tools
  • Encourage participation in school activities and clubs
  • Discuss appropriate social media and technology use
  • Support development of self-advocacy skills
  • Maintain regular communication with teachers
  • Begin exploring career interests informally

7th Grade:

  • Review academic progress and address any concerns
  • Encourage increasing independence in schoolwork
  • Support development of study skills for more complex content
  • Discuss course selection and its impact on future options
  • Explore extracurricular activities aligned with interests
  • Consider leadership opportunities in school and community
  • Continue career exploration through research and discussions
  • Support healthy peer relationships and social development
  • Monitor online activities and digital citizenship
  • Encourage summer enrichment opportunities

8th Grade:

  • Meet with counselor to plan freshman year courses
  • Understand high school graduation requirements
  • Consider advanced courses if appropriate
  • Attend high school orientation events
  • Discuss four-year high school plan
  • Research extracurricular opportunities in high school
  • Develop stronger time management and study skills
  • Take leadership roles in middle school activities
  • Begin thinking about college and career goals
  • Address any academic weaknesses before high school

As noted in the August 2024 article, "Middle school is a critical time for developing the organizational and study skills that will be essential for high school success. Military families should pay particular attention to course selection and academic planning during 8th grade, especially if a PCS move might occur during the high school years."

High School Year-by-Year Checklist

9th Grade:

  • Meet with counselor to confirm four-year academic plan
  • Understand credit requirements for graduation
  • Establish strong study habits and time management
  • Get involved in meaningful extracurricular activities
  • Begin tracking activities, awards, and community service
  • Explore summer opportunities (jobs, volunteering, enrichment)
  • Develop relationships with teachers and mentors
  • Take challenging courses appropriate to ability level
  • Begin exploring career interests
  • Create a system for organizing school materials

10th Grade:

  • Review and adjust four-year academic plan
  • Take PSAT for practice
  • Begin researching college options and requirements
  • Consider taking SAT Subject Tests in completed courses
  • Continue involvement in extracurricular activities
  • Update activity and achievement records
  • Explore leadership opportunities
  • Attend college fairs and information sessions
  • Consider job shadowing or career exploration activities
  • Research summer programs related to interests

11th Grade:

  • Take challenging courses in areas of strength and interest
  • Take PSAT/NMSQT in October
  • Prepare for and take SAT and/or ACT (spring)
  • Research colleges more intensively
  • Visit college campuses when possible
  • Meet with college representatives at school
  • Take leadership roles in activities
  • Update resume and activity records
  • Identify potential recommendation writers
  • Research scholarship opportunities
  • Consider military academy or ROTC options if interested
  • Attend college planning and financial aid workshops

12th Grade:

  • Finalize college list with safety, match, and reach schools
  • Retake SAT/ACT if needed (early fall)
  • Request letters of recommendation
  • Complete applications before deadlines
  • Submit FAFSA as soon as possible after October 1
  • Apply for scholarships throughout the year
  • Maintain strong academic performance
  • Compare financial aid offers
  • Make final college decision by May 1
  • Request final transcript be sent to selected college
  • Complete housing and orientation registration
  • Apply for military-connected benefits if applicable

The April 2024 article emphasizes that "High school students in military families should be particularly proactive about maintaining detailed records of coursework, activities, and achievements to facilitate transitions between schools." The August 2024 article adds, "Military families should research the specific graduation requirements in potential future locations to ensure students remain on track despite moves."

These checklists and timelines provide frameworks that can be customized to your family's specific circumstances. They are designed to help you anticipate key milestones and tasks, reducing stress during transitions and ensuring important educational needs are addressed at the appropriate times. Consider creating your own personalized versions based on your children's ages, educational needs, and your family's military situation.

Additional Resources by Topic

The following resources provide valuable support and information for military families navigating educational challenges. These are organized by topic to help you quickly find the specific assistance you need.

Military-Specific Educational Resources

Organizations and Programs:

School Liaison Program:

Installation School Support:

Online Support:

Educational Planning Resources

Academic Support:

College Planning:

Career Exploration:

Special Education and Learning Support

Military-Specific Resources:

Special Education Information:

Homeschooling Resources

State-Specific Resources:

Military Homeschool Support:

Mental Health and Social-Emotional Support

Military-Specific Resources:

General Support Resources:

Summer and Enrichment Programs

Reading and Library Programs:

Military Youth Programs:

STEM and Academic Enrichment:

These resources represent just a starting point for the wealth of support available to military families. As you navigate your educational journey, continue to explore new resources and connect with other military families who can share their experiences and recommendations. Remember that your installation School Liaison Officer can help you identify additional local resources specific to your current location and needs.

Glossary of Educational Terms

This glossary provides definitions for common educational terms and acronyms that military families may encounter during their educational journey. Understanding this terminology can help you navigate school systems, communicate effectively with educators, and advocate for your child's educational needs.

Academic Terms

Advanced Placement (AP)
College-level courses offered in high school that allow students to earn college credit through examination.
Benchmark Assessment
Periodic standardized assessments used to measure student progress toward academic goals throughout the school year.
Common Application
A standardized college application form accepted by over 900 colleges and universities, allowing students to apply to multiple institutions using a single application.
Credit Recovery
Programs that allow students to retake failed courses or make up credits needed for graduation.
Dual Enrollment
Programs that allow high school students to take college courses and earn both high school and college credit simultaneously.
Elective Courses
Optional courses that students can choose based on their interests, as opposed to required core academic courses.
Formative Assessment
Ongoing evaluations of student learning used to provide feedback and inform instruction.
GPA (Grade Point Average)
A numerical representation of a student's academic achievement, typically on a scale of 0.0 to 4.0.
Honors Courses
Advanced classes that cover material in greater depth and may carry additional weight in GPA calculations.
International Baccalaureate (IB)
A rigorous international educational program that offers a globally recognized diploma.

Military Education Terms

DoDEA (Department of Defense Education Activity)
The civilian agency that operates schools for military children on installations worldwide.
EFMP (Exceptional Family Member Program)
A mandatory enrollment program for military families with special medical or educational needs.
Interstate Compact
The Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children, an agreement among states to address key educational transition issues for military children.
MFLC (Military Family Life Counselor)
Professionals who provide non-medical counseling services to military families, including school-based support.
PCS (Permanent Change of Station)
The official relocation of an active duty military service member to a different duty location.
School Liaison Officer (SLO)
Military installation staff who serve as the primary point of contact for school-related matters between military families, commands, and schools.
SOFA (Status of Forces Agreement)
Agreements between the U.S. and host nations that may affect educational options for military children stationed overseas.
STOMP (Specialized Training of Military Parents)
A federally funded parent training and information center for military families who have children with special needs.

Educational Systems and Structures

CTE (Career and Technical Education)
Educational programs that specialize in skilled trades, applied sciences, modern technologies, and career preparation.
Common Core State Standards
Educational standards that outline what students should know in English language arts and mathematics at the end of each grade.
ESSA (Every Student Succeeds Act)
Federal legislation that governs U.S. K-12 public education policy, replacing No Child Left Behind.
FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act)
Federal law that protects the privacy of student education records and gives parents certain rights regarding their children's educational records.
LEA (Local Education Agency)
A public board of education or other public authority that maintains administrative control of public schools in a city, county, township, or school district.
SEA (State Education Agency)
The state-level government organization responsible for education policy, funding, and oversight within a state.
Title I
Federal program that provides financial assistance to schools with high percentages of children from low-income families.

Assessment and Evaluation Terms

ACT (American College Testing)
A standardized college entrance exam that measures achievement in English, mathematics, reading, and science reasoning.
Criterion-Referenced Test
An assessment that measures student performance against a fixed set of predetermined criteria or learning standards.
EOC (End-of-Course) Exam
Assessments given to students upon completion of a specific course to measure achievement of course standards.
Norm-Referenced Test
An assessment that compares a student's performance to that of other students in a reference group.
PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test)
A practice version of the SAT that also serves as the qualifying test for National Merit Scholarships.
SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test)
A standardized college entrance exam that measures literacy, numeracy, and writing skills.
Standardized Test
An assessment administered and scored in a consistent manner for all students.

Higher Education Terms

FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
The form used to apply for federal financial aid for college, including grants, work-study, and loans.
MHA (Military Housing Allowance)
A Post-9/11 GI Bill benefit that provides a housing stipend to eligible students.
MyCAA (Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts)
A workforce development program that provides up to $4,000 of financial assistance to eligible military spouses pursuing licenses, certifications, or associate degrees.
Post-9/11 GI Bill
Education benefits program for service members and veterans who served on active duty after September 10, 2001, which can be transferred to dependents under certain conditions.
ROTC (Reserve Officers' Training Corps)
College-based officer commissioning program that provides scholarships in exchange for military service after graduation.
Yellow Ribbon Program
A provision of the Post-9/11 GI Bill that helps students attend private schools and out-of-state institutions by covering tuition and fees that exceed the highest public in-state undergraduate rate.

Special Education Terminology

504 Plan
A plan developed to ensure that a child with a disability identified under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act receives accommodations that ensure their academic success and access to the learning environment.
ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)
Federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life.
FAPE (Free Appropriate Public Education)
Educational right of children with disabilities guaranteed by the IDEA.
IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act)
Federal law that ensures students with disabilities receive appropriate educational services.
IEP (Individualized Education Program)
A legally binding document that outlines the special education services and accommodations a student with disabilities will receive.
LRE (Least Restrictive Environment)
The requirement that students with disabilities be educated with non-disabled peers to the greatest extent appropriate.
RTI (Response to Intervention)
A multi-tier approach to the early identification and support of students with learning and behavior needs.

General Educational Terminology

Blended Learning
An educational approach that combines online digital media with traditional classroom methods.
Differentiated Instruction
Teaching approach that tailors instruction to meet individual student needs.
ESL/ELL (English as a Second Language/English Language Learner)
Programs and services for students whose primary language is not English.
PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports)
A proactive approach to establishing behavioral supports and social culture needed for all students to achieve social, emotional, and academic success.
PLC (Professional Learning Community)
A group of educators who meet regularly to share expertise and work collaboratively to improve teaching skills and the academic performance of students.
SEL (Social-Emotional Learning)
The process through which children and adults acquire and effectively apply the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to understand and manage emotions, set and achieve positive goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions.
STEM/STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics/Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics)
Interdisciplinary educational approaches that integrate these subject areas.

As noted in the April 2024 article, "Understanding educational terminology is essential for military families navigating different school systems. This knowledge empowers parents to effectively advocate for their children during transitions and ensures they can make informed educational decisions."

The February 2025 article adds, "Military families who master educational terminology are better equipped to navigate the complexities of school transitions, special education services, and college planning. This knowledge serves as a valuable tool in ensuring educational continuity despite the challenges of military life."

Familiarity with these terms will help you communicate effectively with educators, understand school policies and procedures, and advocate for your child's educational needs throughout your military journey. Keep this glossary as a reference when reviewing school documents, attending meetings, or researching educational options for your family.

Military and Educational Support Contacts

The following directory provides contact information for key organizations and individuals who can assist military families with educational needs. These contacts offer specialized support for various aspects of education, from school transitions to special education services to college planning.

National Military Education Resources

  • Military OneSource Education Consultants
    Phone: 800-342-9647
    Website: www.militaryonesource.mil/education-employment
    Available 24/7 for personalized education consultation and referrals
  • Military Child Education Coalition
    Phone: 254-953-1923
    Email: info@militarychild.org
    Website: www.militarychild.org
    Advocacy, resources, and programs for military-connected students
  • Military Interstate Children's Compact Commission
    Phone: 859-244-8133
    Email: mic3info@csg.org
    Website: mic3.net
    Information and support regarding Interstate Compact implementation
  • Tutor.com for Military Families
    Website: military.tutor.com
    Free online tutoring and homework help for eligible military families

Military Branch-Specific School Liaison Programs

Virginia-Specific Resources

  • Daniel Dunham, Military Family Education Specialist
    Virginia Department of Education
    Phone: 804-555-0178
    Email: daniel.dunham@doe.virginia.gov
    Specializes in supporting military families transitioning to Virginia schools
  • Sandra Osborn, Deployment Education Coordinator
    Virginia Military Family Support Network
    Phone: 703-555-0291
    Email: s.osborn@vmfsn.org
    Provides resources and support for families during deployment
  • Penny Rowley, Military Child Education Advocate
    Virginia Military Family Coalition
    Phone: 757-555-0345
    Email: prowley@vamilitaryfamilies.org
    Advocates for military children's educational needs in Virginia schools
  • Virginia Department of Education Military Family Resources
    Website: www.doe.virginia.gov/families/student-and-family-support/military-families
    State-level resources and information for military families in Virginia

Special Education Support Contacts

Higher Education and Financial Aid Contacts

Crisis and Mental Health Support

Homeschool Support Contacts

  • Organization of Virginia Homeschoolers
    Phone: 866-513-6173
    Email: office@vahomeschoolers.org
    Website: vahomeschoolers.org
    Support and information for homeschooling families in Virginia
  • Home Educators Association of Virginia
    Phone: 804-278-9200
    Email: office@heav.org
    Website: heav.org
    Resources, events, and support for Virginia homeschoolers
  • Home School Legal Defense Association
    Phone: 540-338-5600
    Website: hslda.org
    Legal information and support for homeschooling families
  • Military Homeschoolers
    Website: www.militaryhomeschoolers.com
    Resources specifically for military families who homeschool

Youth Programs and Enrichment

Employment and Career Resources for Military Teens and Spouses

These contacts represent key resources available to support military families throughout their educational journey. As noted in the January 2025 article, "Building a network of educational support contacts is essential for military families navigating frequent transitions. These connections provide continuity and expertise that can make a significant difference in educational outcomes."

The August 2024 article emphasizes that "Military families should not hesitate to reach out to these resources early and often. These professionals understand the unique challenges of military life and can provide targeted assistance that addresses your specific situation."

Keep this directory accessible and don't hesitate to reach out when you need assistance. These organizations and individuals are dedicated to supporting military families and can provide valuable guidance, resources, and advocacy throughout your educational journey.

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