An official army family and MWR Site

School Support Services

School Support Services (SSS) provides Army school-aged youth with educational opportunities, resources, and information necessary to achieve academic success. A branch of Child and Youth Services (CYS), SSS is home to the School Liaison Office, where School Liaison Officers (SLOs) help deliver the best educational resources and information for your children.

We specialize in education transitions, and make sure that incoming and exiting families have information about local schools, after-school services and programs, youth sponsorship programs, graduation, and home schooling. We also help parents better understand the education process, school organization, and interaction strategies.

What Can a School Liaison Officer Do For Me?

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 What Can a School Liaison Officer Do for Me?

School Liaison Officers [SLOs] “level the playing field” for transitioning students, help prepare families, schools, and installations to respond confidently to the complexities of transition and deployment while providing families the assurance that their children’s academic well being is an Army priority by providing:

 Five basic core services:

1. Transition Assistance (PCS Cycle) – School Liaison Officers assist families with school transfers and help “level the playing field” for military children and youth through direct family interaction and through” paving the way” with local schools.

2. Communication Link between Command, Schools, and Families – School Liaison Officers serve as subject matter experts for installation commanders on K-12 issues helping to connect command, school, and community resources.

3. Home School Linkage and Support- School Liaison Officers assist Army families by gathering and sharing information on home schooling issues, policies, and legislation from local school districts, and helping leverage Child Youth & School [CYS] resources to support these families.

4. Partnerships in Education [PIE] – Creates a volunteer network of resources to support installation and community members who have a vested interest in the success of all youth.

5. Post Secondary Preparations – School Liaison Officers leverage installation and school resources to provide graduating military students with access to post-secondary information and opportunities.

Examples of SLO activities:

  • Provide information on student registration in the local school system
  • Provide information on the Student Meal Program
  • Educate parents on the local school system, policies, procedures, programs, and schedules
  • Support home school families
  • Supply resource materials on primary, secondary, and post-secondary education
  • Coordinate with CYS Homework Centers and Youth Technology Labs
  • Participate in Education Council Meetings to elevate parental issues for resolution

These initiatives prepare schools and installations to respond confidently to the complexities of transitions, and provide families the assurance that their children's academic well being is a priority.

When Do I Need a SLO?

 In-Processing:

  • A SLO can assist you prior to and at arrival to make your child’s school registration and transition smooth.
  • A SLO can provide information and address your specific questions and concerns regarding your educational options through your in processing brief, a personal office visit, emails, and phone calls.

Out-Processing: Contact your SLO well in advance of your departure if possible!

  •  A school liaison can assist you with connections to provide information about your upcoming duty station.
  • A SLO can also assist you in ensuring you have properly completed the steps to prepare for your child’s departure from his/her current school.

Anytime you have questions or concerns: regarding schools, homeschooling, special education, scholarships, transitions, and more.

Contact your School Liaison Officer to begin!

Army Europe School Liaison Officer Brochure

Link to All Army Europe SLO webpages

Schools: Elementary Information

SHAPE American Elementary School 

SHAPE American Elementary School is unique, being both a Department of Defense Dependent School and part of the SHAPE International School component. SHAPE American Elementary School (SAES) exists not only to educate the children of American Servicemen and women assigned here, but also to educate the children of all other NATO and PfP nations. 

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SHAPE American Elementary School

DSN: (314) 597-7720

Commercial: +32 (0)65-75-7720

SHAPE American School Website

School Hours:

 8 a.m.-4 p.m. (Monday-Friday)

Morning Line up and afternoon dismissal procedures

School Calendar

First day procedure:

Please report to the main office with your child. He/She will be escorted to the classroom. You may accompany your child to his/her classroom for drop off.

National Education Options for Members of SHAPE Community

 Shape International School (SIS) is available for various international members of the SHAPE Community.

SIS is divided into various national sections.  Enrollment in SIS is limited to children of SHAPE members or other authorized personnel and is controlled by the administration of the individual section in which the child is to study. 

Please call SIS or the School Liaison Officer if you have further questions.

Schools: High School Information

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SHAPE American High School

SHAPE American High School is a U.S. Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) school, serving grades nine through twelve, within the broader setting of the SHAPE International School.

SHAPE High School is unique in that the enrolled students reflect approximately 50% international participation.

 

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School Contacts:

DSN: (314) 597-7740

Commercial: +32 (0)65-75-7740

Email the Principal: shapehs.principal@eu.dodea.edu

SHAPE American High School website

Curriculum

Attendance Policy

School Calendar

Registration Packet

Gradespeed – keep on top of your kids’ grades online!

Virtual School – DoDEA’s virtual school online classes may be utilized if a schedule conflict doesn’t allow for enrollment in a required class or if a desired class isn’t available at your specific school, etc. Homeschool students may access the virtual school so long as requested class is not available at the school. Contact the guidance office or DoDEA virtual school for more information.

SHS Transcripts

Lunch Program - ( More info available on the Lunch Program Tab of this site)

Students have the following options for lunch:

• SIS cafeteria NOTE: clean up after yourself and dishes/trays must be left in the cafeteria.

• Off campus: The Rendezvous or the Pizza Bowl, the Carrefour Market or students may go home for lunch if they live on SHAPE.

• Food and drink are only permitted in designated areas or with the permission of faculty in the school building.

First day procedure- Report to the main office. A staff member will escort you to your classroom. 

Driving :

Information on Driving in Europe

Registry of Motor Vehicles in Europe

Extra-Curricular Activities:

DoDEA Europe Student Activities

SHAPE HS Student Clubs.pdf

DoDEA Europe Athletics

Athletic-HB-14-15-with-Health-Assess-form.doc

Track-Policy-Letter.

Sports Physical FormUp to date physical required for participation

Eligibility: Grade 9 -12, Must have a 2.0 GPA. Current sports physical must be on file with the school nurse. Some sports are available for MS students when space available and not to compete against high school students.

Fall Season

Winter Season

Spring Season

MWR Sports program

Other Cool Stuff for Teens to Do

Teen & Youth Clubs

Outdoor Recreation

Teen Employment and Volunteering Opportunities

Hired!

Commissary

Exchange

Installation Websites

SHAPE2DAY

National Education Options for Members of SHAPE Community

Shape International School (SIS) is available for various international members of the SHAPE Community.

SIS is divided into various national sections. Enrollment in SIS is limited to children of SHAPE members or other authorized personnel and is controlled by the administration of the individual section in which the child is to study. Not all the sections extend to high school level so many students of HS age in the international community attend SHAPE HS.

SIS Sections

Please contact SIS or the School Liaison Officer if you have further questions.

 

 

 

Schools: Middle School Information

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The SHAPE International School (SIS), created in 1967, is made up of eleven different school sections, SHAPE American Middle School being one of these. SHAPE Middle School is unique in that the enrolled students reflect approximately 30% international participation. During any given school year there may be more than 23 nationalities and fifteen languages represented at SHAPE Middle School. With this makeup, the students and faculty are exposed to a multicultural environment that provides them with special opportunities.

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SHAPE American Middle School

DSN: (314) 597-7730

Commercial: +32 (0)65-75-7730

Email the principal: PrincipalSHAPEMS@eu.dodea.edu

Email the registrar: registrarSHAPEMS@eu.dodea.edu

Get involved:

Parent Teacher Student Organization (PTSO)

Parents, teachers, and students are encouraged to become members of the PTSO. The fund-raising activities provide financial assistance, and the parent volunteers support a wide variety of student activities. Dates and times for Executive Board meetings and General Membership meetings will be announced on the school's calendar and Newsletter.

Curriculum

Attendance Policy

SHAPE Middle School Clubs

First day procedure:

Report to the main office with your child. He/She will be escorted to the classroom.

SHAPE MS Map of Pick up and Drop off

National Education Options for Members of SHAPE Community

Shape International School (SIS) is available for various international members of the SHAPE Community.

SIS is divided into various national sections. Enrollment in SIS is limited to children of SHAPE members or other authorized personnel and is controlled by the administration of the individual section in which the child is to study. Not all the sections extend to Middle School level so many students of MS age in the international community attend SHAPE MS.

SIS Sections

Please contact SIS or the School Liaison Officer if you have further questions.

 

Accreditation & Performance

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School Accreditation

AdvancED® is the accreditation organization for all DoDEA schools. AdvancED® is the world’s largest education community, serving more than 30,000 public and private schools and districts across the United States and in more than 70 countries that educate over 16 million students.

As the global leader in advancing education excellence through accreditation and school improvement, AdvancED® brings together more than 100 years of experience and the expertise of three United States-based accreditation agencies — the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement (NCA/CASI), Northwest Accreditation Commission (NWAC), and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS/CASI).

 Previously, DoDEA Schools each went through an external review every 5 years. Starting with the 15-16 school year DoDEA is transitioning to a district wide assessment process. Find more information about DoDEA Accreditation.

 Access your school’s last Accreditation Report 

 Other Performance Markers  

Annual School Report Cards 

Community Strategic Plan

Customer Satisfaction Surveys 

DoDEA Test Scores

DODEA Comprehensive Assessment System (CAS)

DoDEA Comprehensive Assessment System FAQS

DoDEA HS Graduation Requirements

Curriculum Standards

Matrix of Assessments

Calendar of Assessments

National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP)

DoDEA NAEP Results

PSAT – high school & select middle school students

ACT – high school

***SAT – high school  -

***The College Board has recently reduced the SAT testing schedule overseas. Please check the “international registration” section of the College Board website for overseas testing date schedule to plan ahead!

ASVAB – high school students seeking to join the military. Visit a recruiter for more information

 Student  Assessment Calendar 

 

SHAPE American Elementary School

SRI (Schoolastic Reading Inventory): Quarterly

BAS (Benchmark Assessment System): Throughout the year, usually once at the beginning of the year and once in Spring time

Testing

SHAPE students in the second through sixth grades take the Scholastic Reading Inventory in the fall, at mid- year and in the spring to monitor reading comprehension. Students in the third through sixth grades take the Terra Nova standardized achievement tests in reading, language arts, mathematics, social studies, and science each spring. The testing coordinator may be contacted at DSN: 366-6934/6935 for additional testing information.

Local Terra Nova:

TerraNova is a standardized achievement test developed by CTB/McGraw-Hill and used by the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) schools to determine accurate, consistent and objective information about students’ knowledge and skills in various curricular areas and how they compare against similar groups of students across the country.

Survey dates/requests: Parent surveys are done in the Fall.  SHAPE American Elementary School also offers a Survey Monkey link on the Newsletters for parent feedback.

SHAPE American Middle School

SHAPE American High School

The SAT and SAT Subject Tests are a suite of tools designed to assess your academic readiness for college. These exams provide a path to opportunities, financial support and scholarships, in a way that's fair to all students. The SAT and SAT Subject Tests keep pace with what colleges are looking for today, measuring the skills required for success in the 21st century.

The ACT® college readiness assessment is a curriculum- and standards-based educational and career planning tool that assesses students' academic readiness for college. The ACT is the capstone of our College and Career Readiness System. The test uses the same score scale as ACT Explore and ACT Plan, making the system an effective tool to monitor academic progress and student growth. 

SHAPE High School NACAC Parent Tips

Advanced Placement (AP)
The Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) prides itself in helping students reach and exceed their academic goals. DoDEA's main goal in offering Advanced Placement courses is to help students earn college credit while preparing them for the academic course load of college.
Advanced Placement courses are a great way to jumpstart a student's college career while earning college level credits. The College Board offers 30 AP courses and exams for students in multiple subject areas. These courses allow students to potentially earn college credit while developing the time management, study skills and discipline that they will need when they start college.

SHAPE High School AP Course Offerings

AP Grade Level Policy

AP FAQs

Before & After School Care

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Child Youth and School offers a supervised before and after school program, “schools out” and various camp programs as well as Boys and Girls Club of America, Character Counts and 4-H Club programs.

Homework Support Army Child Youth & School provides Homework Labs in before/after school programs for elementary age at the School Age Center and for middle and high school age at the Youth Center. 

For information and registration visit Parent Central Services

SHAPE Parent Central Services:

Blg. 503

DSN: (314)366-6839

Commercial: +32 (0)65-32-6839

Parent Central Services

SHAPE School Age Center

Bldg. 602

DSN: (314)366-6777

Commercial: +32 (0)65-32-6777

SHAPE School Age Center

BENELUX - Learn about your new home!

 SLO-MapBenelux.pngBenelux

Three countries comprise the "Benelux"; Belgium, Netherlands, & Luxembourg. Learn about your new Benelux home! It's going to be a great adventure!

 

Netherlands

Videos: Dutch Culture

Videos: Travel Guides Netherlands

Video: Difference between Netherlands and Holland

Netherlands kids stuff

Dutch Food

 Belgium

Videos: Belgiun Culture

Videos:Travel guides Belgium

Belgium Kids Stuff

Belgian Food

Benelux Languages

Rosetta Stone is free through US ARMY MWR LIbraries!

Dutch

IE Dutch

Babbel Dutch

Dutch Digital Dialects Games

Flemish

Flemish My Language

Flemish Free Language

French

IE French

Babbel French

French Digital Dialects Game

BBC French

German

German Digital Dialects Games

IE German

Babbel German 

Bus Transportation

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Contact the transportation office for school bus stop locations and to get a bus pass. A bus pass is required to ride. 

Transportation Offices for Installations in Europe

General information regarding DoDEA transportation

Transportation for Non-DoD School Program students: Please see your School Liaison Officer for details about transportation to international schools, or contact the DoDEA Non-DOD School Program.

Current Road Conditions and School Closures

Army Europe Supervision of Children Guidance Command policy in Europe regarding walking to school, unattended play and being home alone. (Garrisons may have additional requirements)

Student Supervision

Our kindergarten students are continuously supervised before school, throughout their instructional day and through dismissal. It is imperative that our kindergarten teachers have accurate parent contact information and accurate information for dismissal each day. Any changes in a child’s after school pick up must be preceded with a parent note the day of the change. Students will be brought to the main office after school and a parent contact made, should the need arise.

Army_in_Europe_Child-Supervision_Guidance.pdf

SHAPE_School_Bus_Information.pdf

Bicycles

Children riding bicycles to school will get off at the edge of the school grounds and walk them to the designated parking area. ALL BICYCLES should be placed in the rack and locked. When leaving school grounds, bicycles will be walked to the road before boarding. Bicycles are never to be ridden on the grounds during school or lunch hours or taken for rides during the school day.

Checklist for Inbound Student

SLO_Checkmark.jpgDownload this Printable Checklist to make your transition planning smoother!

 

This checklist should serve as a guide to assist you in planning your child’s upcoming school transition. Not all items required in all situations. Contact your School Liaison Officer [SLO] for more information and assistance. DoDEA School Calendars

 

Download the INBOUND PCS handbook  (PDF Version) below to assist you in making a smooth transition to Europe for your K-12 student.

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This checklist should serve as a guide to assist you in planning your child’s upcoming school transition. Not all items required in all situations. Contact your School Liaison Officer [SLO] for more information and assistance.

Documents You May Need

  1. Birth Certificate or Passport
  2. Immunization Record
  3. Health Records/Sports Physical
  4. Legal documents (i.e. custody papers)
  5. Sponsor's Orders (OR Verification of Employoment Letter, Contract, Personnel Action)
  6. Proof of Command Sponsorship
  7. Copy of Cummulative Folder to hand carry
  8. Current Schedule
  9. Report Card
  10. Withdrawal Grades/Progress Reports
  11. Test Scores/Formal Assessments
  12. Individualized Education Plan [IEP], 540 Plan, IFSP, ESL records as applicable
  13. HS teachers' letters of recommendation (for college applications or special programs)
  14. JROTC or other activity records
  15. Housing assignment letter, Off post lease agreement or lodgining receipt to determine school zone
  16. Contact information for current school
  17. Contact information for two local "emergency contacts." You may need to identify someone in your new command to be emergency contacts until you make new local friends to identify.
  18. Free or reduced lunch paperwork. Your eligibility can travel with you during current school year.

To Do List

  1. Notify your current school registrar and chld's teacher of upcoming PCS (Minimum two weeks prior)
  2. Complete withdrawal paperwork
  3. Complete online DoDEA Pre-registration
  4. Request Current Offical Transcripts (or a copy)
  5. Contact your School Liaison Officer[SLO] for information and assistance with this transition
  6. Ask SLO about possibility of downloading new school's registration packet and forwarding to school registrar.
  7. Request appointment with new school's guidance counselor. (Especially important for HS students!)
  8. Sign up for before/after school care, youth sports, & other activities through CYS Services
  9. Request work your child can do during the move ( if mid year)
  10. Return any equipment, texts, or library books to school.
  11. Close out your school lunch account
  12. If you are due items such as yearbooks, you may need to leave postage to cover shipping.
  13. Ask the SLO about extra curricular and aports try-out information
  14. Request a your sponsor throught the post SLO site.
  15. Have your child log onto "Military Youth on the Move" for tips on how to make this transition easier.

 

College & Career Planning

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It's never too early to start planing for post high school life be it college, trade school, military, or entering the job force. This page should assist you in that quest. Military students have some challenges, but also some advantages in their life experiences. Find your way forward!

 Military Dependent Scholarships can be tied to the sponsor’s:

  • Branch of service.
  • Rank
  • Status (Active, Reserve, Fallen, Injured, Disabled)
  • Specific units such as the 82nd Airborne scholarship

 Scroll to the bottom section of this page for links to various military dependent scholarships.

 State supported scholarships for military dependents: 

  • Many state governments offer valuable scholarships and grants for military personnel and their families. These programs are usually administered through the state’s Department of Higher Education and the Office of Veterans Affairs. 
  • The availability of these programs will vary widely from state to state. 
  • Veterans and/or their dependents should contact their states Department of Higher Education, or Office of Veterans Affairs, for details on financial aid programs for which they may be eligible.
  • Statewide American Legions and other state based military organizations also are great sources for scholarships.

Lean about  DoDEA Seniors' post secondary plans and scholarships awarded

Installation:

Local Installation groups such as spouses clubs also may offer scholarships. Check with your School Liaison Officer for possible local scholarship options.                                                    

 Alpha Phi Alpha Scholarship

Education Consultants:

Military One Source Offers free Education Consultants to assist navigation of the post secondary options and benefits available to military dependents. Connect with an education consultant by calling +1 (800)342-9647.

DoDEA Transcript Requests

GI Bill for Dependents 

Dependents Education Assistance

Transferability of Educational Benefits

GI Bill FAQs

Post 911 GI Bill Overview

Five MUST KNOW GI Bill Facts

Video on Post 911 GI Bill

GI Bill Website

Yellow Ribbon Program pamphlet

Grant/Loan/Scholarship Search Engines

Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

Search for Military Dependent Scholarships 

School Soup

Fast Web

CSS / Financial Aid Profile

FINAID

College Connections

Military Officers’ Association of America – Scholarship Search Engine

Federal Government Educational Grants and Scholarships

Gateway to Scholarship Searches

Guaranteed Scholarships

City of College Dreams

College Net’s Scholarship Database

Sallie Mae: Comprehensive source of information about paying for college, including its free online scholarship service (CASHE)

200 Free Scholarships for Minorities

25 Scholarship Gateways from Black Excel

Scholarships on the Net (1,500 links)

$2,000 no essay scholarship.

Saving for College

A 529 plan is an education savings plan operated by a state or educational institution designed to help families seta side funds for future college costs. There are some tax benefits.

Pre-Paid 529  A prepaid plan is a program that allows you to pay money now to be used for future college expenses. Prepaid plans come in several forms, and in comparing plans you will find many differences. For example, some prepaid plans cover tuition and fees only, while others cover all qualified higher education expenses. The essential benefit is that you lock in those costs: Once you've paid the plan's price, it becomes the obligation of the plan to deliver the promised benefits down the road.

U Promise

Tax Benefits for Education

School Search Engines

Petersons College Search

Vocational School Searches

Big Future

Accredited Schools Online -guide to online education with school search feature

Community College Review -review and search feature

US Dept. Of Education Database of Accredited Post Secondary Institutions & Programs

On Post Colleges

(All options not available in all locations-visit your installation Education Center or a local on-post college office for more information and local options)

University of Maryland University College

Central Texas

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

University of Oklahoma (OU) 

ROTC

ROTC Information

Army ROTC

Naval ROTC

Air Force ROTC

Schools With ROTC

Schools with Army ROTC Programs

Schools with Army ROTC Programs by state

Schools with Navy/Marine ROTC programs

Schools with NROTC Programs

Schools with AFROTC Programs

Military Academies and Federal Service

US Military Academy at West Point

United States Naval Academy

US Air Force Academy

Coast Guard Academy

US Merchant Marine Academy

Peace Corps

US Government Jobs

Military Recruiters

Army

Navy

Marines

Air Force

Recruiter Access to students- DoDEA Memorandum

Other Helpful Links

2016 Military Children’s Scholarship Handbook

Common Application - Apply to multiple colleges at the same time with one form

Scholarship Help Great tips to help you win those scholarships!

Plan for College

Applying for College

Paying for College

College Information for Home Schoolers

Entry Level Employment for College Grads

College Level Examination Program (CLEP) Save money and time! Test out of college level classes.

School Quest College & Career Planner

Is College for Everyone?

In-State Tuition Requirements

As of 1 July 2009, members of the Armed Forces on active duty for a period of more than 30 days and their families are eligible to receive in-state tuition at public colleges and universities in the state where they reside or are permanently stationed. When a service member or their family members are enrolled, they'll continue to receive the in-state tuition rate as long as they remain continuously enrolled at the institution, even if the service member is reassigned outside the state. This change is included in section 135 of the Higher Education Opportunity Act (H. R. 4137) (HEOA). In cases where the military member requires additional assistance, contact the on-campus DVA Representative, or the Department of Education's office (toll-free at 877 557-2575).

Higher Education Opportunity Act 2008

State by State IN-State Tuition Requirements

Tuition-Free Universities in Germany

As of October 2014, all Universities in Germany will not charge any tuition fees for undergraduate studies for all students including international students. In some Federal States, Universities will charge a semester contribution (about 50 euros) and/or administration fees (about 50 euros). This tuition fee structure can change in the future, you should check this page for updated information on tuition fees in different federal states in Germany.

More information Deutsches Studentwerk

See the list of German Universities and Colleges.

Also see the list of Scholarships in Germany for International Students

Attending an International College in Italy

Top International (English Speaking) Universities in Italy


Find a Career That's Right For You

Career Key

Career Test 1

Career Test 2

Career Test 3

Career Builder

Career Personality Test 

Personality based Career Selection Quiz

Bureau of Labor & Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook

Resume Templates and Tips

Resume Builder


Testing for College

PSAT – high school and select middle school students - Colleges invite students to apply based upon these scores

ACT – high school

****SAT – high school

***The College Board has recently reduced the SAT testing schedule overseas. Please check the “international registration” section of the College Board website for overseas testing date schedule to plan ahead!!

ASVAB – high school students seeking to join the military. Visit a recruiter for more information

CollegeBoard

ACTStudent

CLEP- College Level Examination Program - Get college credit for what you already know and save tuition costs!

 SAT/ACT Prep - Go to Learning Links on this site for online SAT/ACT support and practice.

 

Transportation to OCONUS Location from College

Military Travel Benefit  -The student is authorized two one-way tickets per year, as the government is accepting responsibility for providing transportation from the OCONUS location to the school at the beginning of the year and then from the school back to the OCONUS location at the end of the year. However, the regs do not specify that the travel has to be used in that way, allowing military families to use the travel allowance in the way that is the most beneficial to their situation. Students can also ship up to 350 lbs and request summer storage of items left at school location. Recommendation is that you make request a minimum of 30 days prior to intended departure.

Click for Active duty process to access this benefit

Power Point step by step - military access to benefit

Dependent Student Travel Brochure

Civillians with a transportation agreement must contact their CPAC office to make request. Dependents of these civilians have access to government funded transportation, but some regulations and procedures are different for civilians. Check with your CPAC office for more details.

Joint Federal Travel Regulations (See chapter 7 part C section 1 which applies to student travel)

Dependents also have some limited options to fly Space A


National Merit Scholarship Competition

National Merit Scholarship Corporation

Scholarships for Military Dependents

National Association of Uniformed Services Scholarship

Commissary Scholarship

ThanksUSA Scholarship Program

Survivors & Dependents Assistance Program

Fry Scholarship

American Legion Legacy Scholarship

Forty Acres Scholarship

Major General James Ursano Scholarship Fund for Dependent Children (Army)

Anchor Scholarship

Chief Petty Officers Scholarship

Dolphin Scholarship- sub force

EOD Foundation Scholarship

Heroes’ Legacy Scholarship

Keller Scholarship –Coast Guard CWO/WO http://cwoauscg.org/

Colona Scholarship – Coast Guard

NMCRS Gold Star Scholarship Programs

Joseph A. McAlinden Divers Scholarship

Vice Admiral E. P. Travers Loan Program

General Henry H. Arnold Education Grant Program

Scholarship for Air Force Member’s Dependent Children

82nd Airborne Division Education Fund

Army Corps of Engineers Beardslee Scholarship

101st Airborne Division Association Scholarship

Military Pilot Scholarship

Army Aviation Association of America Scholarship

4th Infantry DIV Association

37th Div Vets Assoc.

AMVETS

NCOA

Ladies Auxilliary of Fleet Reserve Assoc. Scholarship

Tuskegee Airmen Scholarship

Wings Over America – Naval Air

Seabee Memorial Scholarship Foundation

Special Operations Warrior Foundation

SOCCOAST (Service Members Opportunity Colleges Degree Program for the Coast Guard)

Marine Corps Scholarships

State by State Veteran’s Education Benefits

Department of Veterans Affairs Dependents’ Educational Assistance

Pat Tillman Scholarship

AFCE Scholarships

Folds of Honor Scholarships -dependents of disabled or deceased

Navy Supply Corps Scholarship

Veterans United Foundation Scholarship

Tailhook Scholarship

Adrian and Corena Swainer Scholarship

American Freedom Foundation Scholarship-Kaplain Online Univ.

NMRCS Education Assistance (interest free loans)

MOAA Education Assistance interest free loans, scholarships, and grants

This is not a complete list of scholarships by any means, please seek out more Military Dependent scholarship options!

SHAPE High School College Application Information

Link to Common Application

 

FASFA Information

US Financial Aid- FAFSA  US families are strongly encouraged to submit a FAFSA form even if you are certain you will not qualify for federal aid. Some universities require that you submit a FAFSA before you can be considered for institutional aid. Although the FAFSA cannot be submitted until after January 1st, it is strongly recommended that the student and parent apply for PIN numbers now:

 Stephanie Gross on College Admissions

Deployment Support

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Our Army Kids are amazing. They are resilient in the face of separations and multiple moves. Deployment can present numerous challenges for children. Luckily there are people, programs, and tips to support your kids and their education during a deployment.

Deployment Support and Information

Sesame Street for Military Families

Stay involved in Children’s Education During Deployment

Sesame Street – Talk Listen Connect

Operation Purple Camp

Military Youth Deployment Support – American Academy of Pediatrics

United Through Reading

Guide for Helping Children and Youth Cope with Separation

Emotional Cycles of Deployment

When a Familly Member is Deployed

Educator's Guide to the Military Child During Deployment

DoDEA Crisis Management Toolkit

Military One Source free non-medical anonymous counseling online, on the phone, or in person. Twelve free sessions may occur in individual, couple, family or group settings. 

Real Warriors 24/7 multimedia behavioral health support center for all military connected, Defense Centers of Excellence and Department of Defense. 

Resources in the Schools to Support Your Child

School Counselors

School Psychologists

ASACS counselors – contact MS or HS to reach an ASACS counselor.

 Resources in the Community to Support Your Child

 Military and Family Life Counselors (MFLCs) are licensed professionals who provide situational, problem-solving consultations anonymously and confidentially. No written records are kept, and it is free to military and family members. They also work hand-in-hand with existing services to provide consulting, education and training support on topics such as: Combat stress and coping strategies; emotional cycle of deployment and reintegration; communication; relationship issues and re-establishing intimacy; anger management/conflict resolution; parenting skills; children's reaction to deployment and reunion. Contact your School Liaison Officer or local school for contact information of the MFLC at your post.

MFLC Brochure

ACS Mobilization & Deployment Readiness Program

Chaplains

Family Readiness Groups

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For Pre-Deployment and Post-Deployment support contact:

 ACS

Bldg. 318

DSN: (314)366-6824

Commercial: +32 (0)65-32-6824

English as a Second Language

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DODEA ESL Program information includes guidebook and program regulations.

 

Go to Learning Links section of this site to access ESL online games !

FAQs

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Following are questions that are commonly asked by incoming families. If you need further information or clarification please contact the School Liaison Officer

Is there an age requirement for enrolling in Kindergarten?

Yes.  Students must be 5 years of age by 1 Sept.  Cut off for grade one is 6 years of age by 1 Sept and cut off for Sure Start preschool program is 4 years of age by 1 Sept.

 

My child doesn't make the cut off age for Kindergarten, but already started Kindergarten in another state.  Will he/she have to wait until next school year to start Kindergarten again?

Students who have started Kindergarten or first grade in another state with different age requirements may be grandfathered in.

 

My child is quite advanced and just missed the age cut off for Kindergarten.  May I request an evaluation to get a waiver for enrollment?

DoDEA will not provide an evaluation to allow a student to waive the cut off requirement.

 

My child cannot be immunized due to medical or religious beliefs, what do I do about the immunization requirement?

Visit your school nurse to make a religious or medical waiver request.

 

SHAPE American Schools are all in the same area.  Is there a school bus zoning area for transportation?

Yes.  Before selecting a House or a flat, please check the location of the nearest school bus service bus-stop with Common Services office, Avenue de Sofia, building 710.

 

Who has to register (re-register) & How to register for Bus Services?

All newcomers and parents whose children are already living here, and whose children have never used the school bus, but want to use it during the school year.

Parents with children already registered for this school year and whose children require the school bus service again during the next school year.

 

Where Do I go and what do I need?

To register you will need :

a. a copy of the Sponsor's SHAPE IDcard.


b. Civilian personnel need a Certificate of Assignment from their NMR or supporting nation. Without this certificate you will be directly charged for the School Bus Service.

c. a registration form will be given to you directly at the School Bus Section office.

 

How much do I have to pay for the school bus service?

The school bus service is paid by six participating nations. If you are member of one of these nations you don’t have to pay for the school bus service. For more information ask your support unit. If you enroll your child at the U.S. section, please note that the School Bus program is included in the US Tuition Fee.

 

Gifted Instruction

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Gifted Education Information includes guidebook and program regulations.

 What is differentiated instruction?

Homeschooling

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Homeschooling in Europe

Some parents elect to homeschool their children while OCONUS. This is a legal option open to all SOFA sponsored active duty military, DoD civilians, and contractors. No state or federal government permission is required.

 Be aware that for German citizens home schooling is illegal and homeschooling is not common or recognized in other countries. You should be mindful of potential “looks” if you are out and about off post with your children during "normal school hours". In addition, to prevent unwarranted interest by local authorities you should use discretion when conducting "non-academic" activities or allowing children to be unsupervised outside the home during "normal" school hours.

The Netherlands does not have a SOFA agreement. Instead, they have a "Friendship Agreement" which does not address homeschooling. Homeschooling is not "recognized" by the Dutch government. The Compulsory Education Act, Article 2, paragraph 1, states that school attendance is mandatory, so there may be challenges for homeschoolers going to Schinnen. Homeschool families moving to Europe should check with the School Liaison Officer for more information about homeschooling in their country or region.

School Liaison Officers may also connect homeschool families to local homeschool groups that sometimes share in field trips, PE, parties, curriculum fairs, science fairs, workshops and other educational and social activities.

Child, Youth, & School (CYS) also offers special events/programs for homeschoolers in some locations.

Support within the DoDEA Schools for Homeschoolers

Homeschool families may request special education evaluation and services in the DoDEA schools. Homeschool families also have the option of benefitting from some of the activities or classes within the DoDEA schools. For example, a homeschool student may wish to participate in an extra-curricular activity, take just an art or math course at the school, complete standardized tests, have access to online learning program memberships the school has, take select virtual school classes, or use school textbooks. All these options are open to eligible Dependent homeschoolers through the on post schools on a space-available basis. Students must have completed registration paperwork with the school and commit to regular participation in any chosen activity to allow for proper planning on the part of the teachers or activity sponsors. For more information contact the school or your School Liaison Officer.

 DoDEA Homeschool Information Webpage

NEW** DoDEA Home School Policy

Quick Facts Sheet on DoDEA Home School Policy

DoDEA- Home Schooling Quick Facts (003).pd

DoDEA standards and curriculum

 If you are PCS’ing out of Europe please also contact your School Liaison Officer for assistance regarding homeschool information in your new location.

Helpful Homeschool Resources

 

Home School Legal Defense Association provides information on homeschool law, and general support and information about homeschooling.

National Home Education Research Institute

Homeschool Central

Homeschool.com

Secular Homeschool

Military Home Schoolers

Homeschool Mentor

HSLDA Home Shooling Overseas article

HSLDA  You Can Homeschool

HSLDA Get Started Homeschooling

FAQs homeschooling a high school student

FAQs on Accredited High School Diploma

Guide to High School Homeschooling

John Holt (What is Unschooling?)

CLASS Homeschools (curriculum)

KONOS (themed curriculum )

Accredited Schools Online - guide to schooling online elementary-college level

K-12  Online school offered as part of public education in some states. Certain states allow for overseas DOD dependents whose home state of record is that state to enroll for free.

A-2-Z Homeschooling

A.C.E.

aBeka  (curriculum)

Catholic Heritage Curricula

Seton Home Study Program 

Jewish Homeschooling

Calvert (curriculum)

Time 4 Learning (curriculum)

Successful Homeschooling ( collection of secular curriculums)

Bright Hub Education  

Global Village School

Gifted  Homeschoolers Forum

Homeschool Special Education 

Homeschooling special needs students

Local Homeschooling Information

Homeschooling in Belgium

 Please contact your School Liaison Officer for more information about Homeschooling.  You can also e-mail the local Homeschooling group:

 ShapeHomeEducators@gmail.com

Learning Links

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Learn new skills or reinforce what you already know!

 Mixed Bag

Khan Academy  Free online instruction for all students

Tutor.com  Study Strong! Online tutoring free to military connected students

shmoop - MS/HS test prep SAT/ACT and online courses in Language Arts and History

Hippo Campus 

Jishka Homework Help 

Homework Spot 

Hamilton Homework Help  

Prentice Hall texts Free parent support resources

Smithsonian Museum 

Fact Monster 

Ask Jeeves for Kids 

Discovery Kids 

Class Zone Textbook specific online practice in all subject areas

The Thinking Business

Learning Games for Kids

Odyssey of the Mind

ARMY MWR Libraries

Fun brain - games

 

SAT/ACT/ASVAB Prep

March 2 Success

Kahn Academy SAT Prep

SAT practice tests from College Board

shmoop - MS/HS test prep SAT/ACT

SAT Prep Course from BLIne

E Knowledge Free SAT Program For Military Youth

Number2 Test prep

Princeton Review SAT demo test

Professor Word SAT test prep

ACT practice tests

Princeton Review ACT demo test

Petersons ACT practice tests

4Tests ACT Practice

School Quest Transition support site also offers free ACT/SAT prep through "Shmoop"

ASVAB Test Bank

Military.com ASVAB Practice Tests

 

Math

Math Moves You

Math Counts 

Math Playground

A+ Math 

Ask Dr. Math 

Purple Math

Illustrative Mathematics

Cool Math

Math Forum

Web Math 

Figure This! Math Challenge

Science

Science Fair Projects

Three Rivers Projects

Franklin Institute 

Genetic Science Learning Center 

Discovery Education

Ed- Heads

Science Made Fun

Museum of Nature 

Cells Alive! 

Neuroscience

Social Studies

Mr. Dowling History for Kids

US Constitution

National Constitution Center

50 States

House of Representatives

Senate

White House

This Week in History

Ben’s Guide to US Government

History Games

History Games and Animations

Geography Games

National Geographic for Kids

Ancient Civilizations for Kids

Cyber Sleuth – Ancient Civilizations

Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego? Videos of the popular PBS game show

Language Arts

Guide to Grammar & Writing

Great Books Online

Note Taking Help

Library spot

Dictionary.com

Thesaurus.com

Visual Thesaurus

Project Gutenberg- free ebooks

Grammar Girl

Vocabulary Games

Read Write Think

Literary Zone

Vocab Sushi

Basic Lang. Arts Skills Practice

Professor Garfield Grammar games

Grammar Bytes

Game on 

Slime Kids Grammar Games

Foreign Languages

Spanish

Spanish Digital Dialects Games

Games to Learn Spanish

700 Spanish Games

123 Teach Me Spanish Games

BBC Spanish

Don QuiJote Spanish Games

Babbel Spanish

German

German Digital Dialects Games

600 German Games for Children

IE German

Babbel German

 Italian

IE Italian

Babbel Italian

700 Italian Games

Italian Digital Dialects Games

Dutch

IE Dutch

Babbel Dutch

70 Dutch Games

Dutch Digital Dialects Games

Flemish

Flemish My Language

Flemish Free Language

French

IE French

Babbel French

700 French Games

French Digital Dialects Game

BBC French

Chinese

Chinese Tools

Chinese Online

Chinese Digital Dialects Games

Japanese

Japanese Digital Dialects Games

Tanoshii Japanese

Hiragana Katakana

Easy Japanese

Korean

Korean Digital Dialects Games

Genki Korean

Latin

Latin Memory Match game

Complete Latin Textbook (Advanced)

Latin Puzzle

Latin Trivia

ESL - Learning English

       ESL Games

       English Club

       Fun English Games

       MES Games

        ESL Kids' Games

        TEFL Games

 

 

 

 

Check your school’s website too! Some schools offer subscriptions for additional learning sites to enrolled students.

Lunch Program

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The AAFES Exchange Student Meal Program provides wholesome, nutritious meals to students in participating DOD OCONUS schools.

Payments can be conveniently made online in most locations. 

Sponsors/Families must ensure that their Student Lunch Program account (debts or credits from the school lunch program) has been cleared before departing the garrison.

Free and Reduced Meal Program  

Applications are made through an online application on the AAFES site.

Applications are to be made each school year starting on 1 July.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        For questions and assistance contact the SLO. 

 Free and Reduced Meal Application

 Step-by-step instructions for filling out online free and reduced meal application

ANSWERS to common questions about the changes in the Student Meal Program

Do not include housing allowance or COLA in your total income! You MUST include base pay and BAS!

 Resources

 

Pick up and submit an application at the school and/or Parent Central Services. You can also download one from link above. 

High school students have an “open campus lunch” which allows them to go anywhere they wish on base for lunch. Students are expected to return to class on time.

Military Leaders

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Military Leaders share the unique role of guaranteeing both our national security and a high quality of life for Service Members and their dependents. As a Military Leader, this site can provide you with important information on topics relevant to ensuring Service Members high quality of life with regard to the unique school issues that face their children.

Europe School Districts

DoDEA Europe West District

Countries: Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, and United Kingdom Communities: Schinnen, Kleine Brogel, Alconbury, Brussels, Croughton, Lakenheath, SHAPE, Spangdahlem

DoDEA Europe East District

Country: Germany Communities: Ansbach, Baumholder, Garmisch, Grafenwoehr, Hohenfels, Kaiserslautern, Ramstein, Sembach, Stuttgart, Vilseck, and Wiesbaden

DoDEA Europe South District

Countries: Bahrain, Italy, Spain, Turkey Communities:  Ankara, Aviano, Bahrain, Incirlik, Livorno, Naples, Rota, Sigonella, Sevilla and Vicenza

DoDEA District Configuration

Legislation

Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunities for Military Children

Interstate Compact Guidebook

Military Student Identifier

In-state Tuition for Military Dependents - Higher Education Opportunity Act

Impact Aid Fact Sheet

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) " No Child Left Behind"

US Dept of Education: Federal Education Laws

Military Dependent & Education Organizations

Military Child Education Coalition  (MCEC)

Military Impacted Schools Association (MISA)

National Military Family Association

Military One Source

National PTA

Adopt-A-School: School Volunteerism by Service Members

Commands are urged to allow soldiers to complete community service in the schools as often as possible. Community service in the schools is part of the Partnerships in Education Adopt-A-School Program. Opportunities for one time or regular support are available. Long term "adoption" of a school by a command develops a standing relationship between your command and the school. Schools always have a need for soldiers! Service Members should report to a school’s main office when volunteering. If you would like soldiers to complete community service in the schools. Contact your School Liaison Officer to connect with schools for more information!

Transition Support and Resources

Education Resource Center

School Quest

Military Youth on the Move

Tutor.com

Military Kids Connect

Youth Sponsors - Online request on installation SLO sites

  Military Family Life Counselors [MFLCS] provide short term confidential counseling support to military children and families.

ASACS Counselors - Army contracted counselors  in most middle and high schools

 DoDEA Europe School Counselors & School Psychologists                                                                                                       

 Military OneSource has access to free nonmedical counseling that’s anonymous and available online, on the phone or in person.

Twelve free sessions may occur in individual, couple, family or group settings.

 

Deployment Support

Deployment Support Handbook for Children and Youth

Sesame Street – Talk Listen Connect

Operation Purple

United Through Reading

Emotional Cycles of Deployment

Training Opportunities

Leaders’ Toolkit

Parents' Toolkit

Military Child Education Coalition Course Catalog

Building Resilient Kids

DirectSTEP Information & registration

DirectSTEP course listing & key codes

Research and Data

Enrollment Data

DoDEA Test Scores

Secondary Education Transition Study

Effects of PTSD on Children of Combat Veterans

Educational Committees and Advisory Councils

DOD Guidance on Educational Committees and Councils

DoDEA Europe Advisory Councils

Dependents Education Council

DODI 1342.15

Homeschooling

DoDEA Homeschooling site

(See also homeschooling tab on this SLO site)

Special Education & EFMP

Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP)

EFMP Quick Guide

EFMP Civilian Process Flow Chart

DoDEA Special Education

(See also special needs tab on this SLO site)

Education Support for Locations without DoDEA Schools

Non DOD Schools Program (NDSP)

DODI 5031.01

Misc. Resources:

Federal Education Association - (Teachers' Union)

 

Parent Involvement

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Studies show that parental involvement has a positive impact on student performance in school. Following are ways parents can stay involved in their child’s education in the DoDEA schools.

 Gradespeed Program Information    – keep on top of your childs’ performace, attendance, etc.with this helpful online program! Gradespeed Login

 School Intranet – each school has a “public” website (links are available on this website under elementary, middle and high school) The schools also host private password protected “Intranet” sites with more specific and updated information. Check with the  main office at your child’s school to access this site.

 DoDEA Community Strategic Plan

Volunteering – volunteers who will be in direct supervision of students are asked to complete a background check. Please inquire at your school’s main office for more details.

Parent Teacher Organizations & Booster Clubsare organizations recognized by the installation and may fundraise for support of school programs.

Parent Resources

PTA Parents' Guide to Student Success

Council of Great City Schools Parent Roadmaps

Acheivethecore.org

Learning Skills Toolbox (parent videos)

Homeroom (connect to other parents of military connected children)

Military Child Education Coalition

Contact with Schools

DoDEA Schools in the News

Schools and Districts in Europe

DoDEA Chain of Command    – Parents are encouraged to speak with teachers and then administrators if they have concerns that need to be addressed. Beyond the school is the Local School District, then Europe Area Office, then HQ in DC. Click on link to see leadership within the DoDEA chain of command.

Starting in August 2015, DoDEA will begin implementing "Restructuring for Student Achievement". (This restructuring and its changes for the various locations are outlined on this link.)

Change in Europe Districts' organization

District Consolidation

Change in standards- adoption of College and Career Readiness Standards

Interactive Customer Evaluation [ICE] 

ICE is a tool you can use to share comments & suggestions with DoDEA leadership.Individual schools also have their own ICE accounts.  It is recommended that you include your contact information for a reply to your concern.

Regulations & Policies

DoDEA Instruction, Policies and Regulations 

School Handbooks are found on individual school websites. Click on “schools and districts” above to find your school’s website/handbook.

Student Rights and  Responsibilities 

 Disciplinary Rules and Procedures

When to keep a sick child home

Attendance Policy

Educational Committees and Advisory Councils

Advisory Committees & Councilsexplained

DoD Instruction 1342.15 information on rules for advisory committees and councils

Europe Education Council

Dependents’ Education Council  is a council of military leadership and DoDEA leadership that addresses issues and concerns. Meetings are closed, but final minutes are not. 

SHAPE American Elementary School Advisory Committee (SAC) 

 

 

 

School Advisory Council (SAC)

The School Advisory Committee (SAC) is a team consisting of equal number of parents and teachers that volunteer to advise the Principal on education matters.

 

SHAPE American Middle School Advisory Committee (SAC)

 

 

 SHAPE American High School Advisory Committee (SAC)

 

Local Parent support

SHAPE Elementary PTSO

Parent Teacher Student Organization (PTSO)

Contributes school-wide financial support to our reading goal through the incentive station. They sponsor family friendly community events.

General Membership Meeting:

Every 1st Wednesday at 4:15 p.m. of the month: Everyone is invited to attend these meetings 

Contact the PTSO: Email shapeptso@gmail.com

 

SHAPE Middle School PTSO

Parent Teacher Student Organization (PTSO)

Parents, teachers, and students are encouraged to become members of the PTSO. The fund-raising activities provide financial assistance, and the parent volunteers support a wide variety of student activities. Dates and times for Executive Board meetings and General Membership meetings will be announced on the school's calendar and Newsletter.

SHAPE High School Booster Club

Booster Club

The SHAPE Booster club is always looking for more parents to help support our students' activities. Please contact the front office for more information. 

 

Parent Teacher Conferences

Information on Parent Teacher Conferences can be found on the individual school's calendars.

 

PCS'ing Outbound?

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PCSing Out of Europe?                                                       

Moving is hard; especially mid-year school moves. Help is available! Use the directories below to locate a School Liaison Officer in your new location. Your new SLO can provide you with local school information and youth sponsorship assistance. Your current SLO can assist you with locating your new SLO and identifying steps you should take to help your child exit your current location smoothly!

Army Installation SLO Directory

Navy Installation SLO Directory

Marine Installation SLO Directory

Air Force  Installation SLO Directory

Transfer and Withdrawal from DoDEA

Parents or legal guardians must fill out a Withdrawal/Records Request format least two weeks prior to the student’s last day of attendance. If the student is leaving within twenty days of the semester, PCS orders must be submitted to the school. If the student is withdrawing due to Early Return of Dependents, a letter from the sponsor’s command must be submitted.

 “Acceleration” Program

Students who will be PCS’ing before the end of the school year may be eligible to receive full credit for the current semester through the “Acceleration” program.

Requirements:

  •   Contact the school at least 30 days prior to move.
  •   Orders (This is NOT for families leaving for vacation)
  •   Student must be in attendance all day on the last day prior to the accelerated withdrawal date.
  •   Student may be required to complete work in advance for full credit
  •   Acceleration dates start 20 days prior to the end of the semester.

Letter from DoDEA Europe regarding Acceleration 

For more information regarding Acceleration contact the school or your School Liaison Officer

Handy Resources:

SLO_Checkmark.jpg Download this handy Checklist for your child’s school transition.

 

Download the US Army Europe K-12 Dependent OUTBOUND PCS Handbook below.

SLO_COVER OUTBOUND PCS Handbook

 

Consecutive OCONUS Moves

Most overseas assignments are to locations with Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA)  schools. The School Liaison Officer from your new duty assignment can provide you local school information to assist you with the transition. For assignments in locations that are outside the commuting distance of DoDEA schools, you may be eligible for the Non-DoDD Schools Program (NDSP) which provides educational support to include tuition to international schools. 

 Stateside Moves

 Learn about schools in your new state.

Searching for a new school stateside can be hard. It is advised that you research and select a school BEFORE you select a home as enrollment is likely tied to your address. Also, be aware that if you will be staying in a hotel or lodging while looking for a home, your child’s school zone will likely be the zone for that temporary hotel until you move. Plan ahead if you know the school you want your child to attend. Your new SLO can help you with details about the policies in your new area. Use the links below to learn about and evaluate stateside schools.

Great Schools (Be aware that unfiltered parent comments are posted on this site and may be inaccurate. However, this site does provided some good data)

Neighborhood Scout

School Digger

National Assessement of Educational Progress

Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children All 50 states and Washington, D.C. are signatories to this compact to make transitions easier for military children. Find out how it works and is implemented in your new state.

School Quest  is well-suited to anyone who is “questing” information about schools, college and workplace readiness, transition, etc. It is meant to facilitate the search for new schools and centralize resources. Especially helpful is the  State Education Resources page on the site. It provides a cornucopia of information about education in your new state.

Research-based Characteristics of Quality Schools

There are mutual fundamental characteristics common among the majority of the schools considered successful in preparing students for the future. Research shows that the most effective schools are more alike than they are different.

Effective Schools

Five Likely Features of an Effective School

Effective Schools Research Base

What is Effective Schools Research? 

Effective Schools Assessment Report

Emotional Support

Leaving a school can be very emotional for students of all grades. It is important for your child’s transition that the school be aware of your impending move so his/her teacher(s) can support your child by keeping an eye out for signs of distress. Some teachers mark the move with a special event or meaningful activity. Please keep them informed so they can be there for your child. If your child is having a hard time with the upcoming move, there are a host of resources and people in addition to teachers that can help; school psychologists, Military Life Counselors,  S2S sponsors, to name a few. Online resources include:

Military Youth on the Move  helps kids (grades K-12) prepare for a move.

Military Teens Connect  Interact with other military teens about how to deal with the challenges of being a military child.

More PCS Resources

Moving with a special needs child? Check out this helpful booklet by the Military Child Education Coalition. (MCEC) Special Needs Move

Need a babysitter in your new location but don’t know anyone? Check out Sitter City  membership is free for military families!

Consider requesting a youth sponsor at your new duty station. Your School Liaison Officer can assist you with that connection!

 

 

  

Local PCS guidance / Check out 

 Withdrawal From School

ACS Contact Information:

DSN: (314)366-6824

Commercial: +32 (0)65-32-6824

Pre-School Options

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On-Post Programs for Pre-Schoolers

 

SLO_PREK_SB.jpg

 

Strong Beginnings

Child, Youth & School (CYS) Services offers Strong Beginnings pre-kindergarten program, designed for 4- to 5-year-old children, to prepare young students for school with lessons in everything from science and technology to how to hold a carton of milk or carry a food tray. Besides the basics of “kindergarten protocol", Strong Beginnings also teaches math, social studies, beginning reading and writing skills and good manners. Supportive staff will help children learn the basic knowledge and understanding through interactive stations and a creative curriculum.

The Creative Curriculum for Preschool aligned to Early Learning Standards is the only authorized curriculum for Strong Beginnings and is the most widely-used curriculum for pre-kindergarten programs in America. This program covers various learning curriculum to include: Language and Reading, Mathematics, Science, Computers, Social Studies, and The Arts. We help build a strong foundation for learning! Fees are based on Total Family Income (TFI). For more information visit Parent Central Services.

Article Army Child, Youth and School Services Strong Beginnings Program.

 

Preschool Services for Children with Disabilities (PSCD)                                                                           

The PSCD program for the young child has specifically designed instruction, support, and services for students with an identified disability which requires them to have an individually designed instructional program to meet their unique learning needs. Current adopted DoDEA content standards and curriculum materials are implemented in the PSCD classroom.

The purpose of special education is to enable students to successfully develop to their fullest potential by providing a free and, appropriate public education in compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) as implemented by DoD Instruction 1342.12, “Provision of Early Intervention and Special Education Services to Eligible DoD Dependents”.

PSCD Enrollment Eligibility  Preschool special education services are provided for children 3-5 years of age who demonstrate a significant difference in actual functioning when compared with the functioning of a non-disabled child of the same chronological age. This significant difference occurs in one or more of the developmental areas as measured using standardized evaluation instruments and confirmed by clinical observation and judgment. Visit your zoned school for information and application to the PSCD program.

 

The Sure Start Program

In some locations DoDEA offers Sure Start which is a full-day preschool program that serves military children and families living overseas. Your School Liaison Officer can tell you if your installation offers this program. In addition to offering a high-quality educational program that reflects best practices in the field, Sure Start also provides health and nutrition, social, and parent involvement services. Close collaboration between families, schools, and the installation community is viewed as essential and is a required part of the program.

This approach to the delivery of services distinguishes Sure Start from all other DoDEA programs. Current adopted DoDEA content standards and curriculum materials are implemented in the Sure Start classroom.

Sure Start Enrollment Eligibility
Sure Start is a program for command-sponsored 4-year-old Dependents (must turn 4-years-old by September 1st of the current school year). Children qualify for Sure Start based on the rank of the sponsor: E1-E4 or civilian rank equivalent is the first priority, E5-E6 or civilian rank equivalent is the second priority and E7-E9 or civilian rank equivalent is the third priority. Additional criteria may be applied (see Sure Start Guide).

Sure Start is not available in all locations. Please contact your school liaison officer for more information. This program has limited space. Classes typically consist of 18 students each. Registration is done through the DoDEA schools.

Application for Sure Start  

Sure Start Program Guide 

Private, International Schools

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Some families elect to enroll their children in private, international, or host nation schools while in Europe. In some locations DoDEA schools for your child’s grade might not be available in a commuting distance so your child may attend an international school (public or private) paid for by the Non-DoD Schools program (NDSP)  Be aware that restrictions apply.
NDSP Facebook page
NEW NDSP Administrative instruction

International school attendance is not funded for family members stationed in areas with appropriate DoDEA school availability within commuting distance. Enrollment is an option to families willing to cover the costs involved.

 

Host Nation Schools

Some families consider sending their children to local host nation public schools. This can be a wonderfully enriching and rewarding experience. For some families the benefits are worth the adjustments to an unfamiliar system. Be aware that school calendars, schedules, and dress may vary greatly from American schools. Learning new language skills and culture are reasons some families choose this option. This is a personal decision and should be made considering the needs and personality of each child. This is certainly not an option in all areas. Families who are accepted must understand that all information and communication with the schools may not be in English, so be prepared to use an interpreter if need be. Acceptance of non local national students varies from location to location.

Public Schools Germany

Public Schools Netherlands

Public Schools Belgium

Public Schools Italy

Private International (English Speaking) Schools in Germany

Private International (English Speaking) Schools in Belgium

Private International (English Speaking) Schools in the Netherlands

Private International (English Speaking) Schools in Italy

Private host nation preschool/kindergartens are also sometimes attended by Americans. Tuition is the responsibility of the family.

For more information regarding the possibility of enrollment in local host nation public or private  schools in your area, please visit or contact your School Liaison Officer.

SHAPE International School

General information about the SHAPE International School's can be found on SHAPE2DAY 

 

 

NDSP Information:

NDSP Info.

NDSP Expense

Registration & Eligibility

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 DoDEA Eligibility Information

Enrollment Categories

Required documents and forms 

The online pre-registration link is no longer being used. DoDEA will be adopting a new online pre-registration program in the future. At this time please register directly with your child's school.

 Registration is completed at the school. Please allow for a full day following registration before your child will begin class. Some schools will allow registration prior to arrival via email. School websites contain registration packets with local registration forms you can download.

IMPORTANT: If your installation has multiple schools for your child’s grade you may need to secure housing information to be certain of your zoned school prior to registration. Contact your School Liaison Officer for more information. Be aware that in some locations when you first arrive your child may temporarily attend the school that is zoned for your Temporary Billeting/Quarters. When you know where you will be living (on or off base), there is a possibility that your child could be moved to another school, unless you live in the same zoned area. Again: CONTACT your School Liaison Officer for assistance and clarification.

 Immunizations and Health 

 Immunization requirement- Influenza

 Exceptional Family Member Clearance  for DoDEA Schools

 NDSP – locations that do not have a DoDEA school within commuting distance may provide schooling through the “Non DoD Schools Program”

 RE-Registration- Each spring families will be required to re-register for the upcoming year. Your school will send out details about re-registration which is typically a quick process. For more information contact your School Liaison Officer.

Local registration info

All American Schools on SHAPE are serviced by a central registrar office. 

SHAPE American Elementary School Registration Packet

SHAPE American High School Registration Packet

SHAPE American Middle School Registration Packet

School Registrar Contact Information

DSN: (314)366-6930

Commercial: +32 (0)65-32-6930

Please visit the central registration office on the web for further information:

http://shapecenreg.idso.eportalnow.net

 

 

 

 

School District Information

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Department of Defense Education Activity (HQ in DC area) 

 DoDEA Leadership             

 DoDEA Europe

 DoDEA Europe Leadership

DoDEA Europe School Calendars

DoDEA Transcripts

Community Strategic Plan

 

DoDEA Europe West District

Countries: Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, and United Kingdom Communities: Schinnen, Kleine Brogel, Alconbury, Brussels, Croughton, Lakenheath, SHAPE, Spangdahlem

Email

DoDEA Europe East District

Country: Germany Communities: Ansbach, Baumholder, Garmisch, Grafenwoehr, Hohenfels, Kaiserslautern, Ramstein, Sembach, Stuttgart, Vilseck, and Wiesbaden

Email

DoDEA Europe South District

Countries: Bahrain, Italy, Spain, Turkey Communities:  Ankara, Aviano, Bahrain, Incirlik, Livorno, Naples, Rota, Sigonella, Sevilla and Vicenza

Email

 

Big Changes in school district structure are on the horizon! 

DoDEA has begun implementing "Restructuring for Student Achievement" This restructuring and its changes for the various locations are outlined on this link.

District Configuration

Change in standards - adoption of College and Career Readiness Standards   

Common Core / College and Career Readiness Standards

SHAPE American Schools

Isles District

SHAPE American Elementary School

SHAPE American Middle School

SHAPE American High School

SHAPE_School_Bus_Information.pdf

 

DoDEA Community Strategic Plan         

School Enrollment Data            

Policy and Guidelines

Attendance Policy

DoDEA Prevention Programs Guide

DoDEA Videos

DoDDS EUROPE Videos

DoDEA Europe Facebook

DoDEA Europe Twitter

DoDEA Press Releases

DoDEA Headlines

DoDEA Publications (includes parent guides on various curriculum topics)

Non-DOD School Program [NSDP]  For families stationed in areas without a DoDEA school in commuting distance

Special Needs

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Moving with a special needs child can be smoother with some planning and communication. It is recommended that families with special needs children plan sufficiently prior to a PCS to ensure that all required services are available, prepared and in place prior to arrival at new duty station.

It is very important that you hand-carry copies of any special education paperwork such as Individualized Education Program (IEP), evaluations, 504 plans, etc. IEPs should be current and not expired. Official special education records are transferred from school to school. However, parents should have copies of all significant special education records for their child. It is crucial that you hand carry special education records to the receiving school.

Some parents withhold special education records because they are afraid of a perceived stigma associated with the term “Special Needs”. This places school personnel and your special needs student at a disadvantage when planning an appropriate educational program. Everyone’s goal is to create a successful learning environment for all students. Your child’s current up-to-date IEP will be honored at the new school upon arrival. After observation of your child the school may recommend to re-evaluate your child or renew the current IEP.

If you have a child that is younger than the required age of school attendance and is at least 3 years old, he/she may still be eligible for services through the school district. Contact the school or the School Liaison Officer for details. (Scroll down to Preschool Services for Children with Disabilities.)

Special Education in DODEA 

Special Education Procedural Guide

Procedural Safeguards -new

Parent Rights for Special Education

DoDEA Special Education Directory – List of services by site. Be sure to complete EFMP screening to determine if services needed by your child are available. 

DODEA Dispute Management Form 

DoDEA Dispute Management Form

Procedure for Independent Educational Evaluation

DoDEA 504 Accomodation Plans

DoDEA Directory of Special Education Services in OCONUS Communities

Special Needs Booklet from Military Child Education Coalition

Education Directory for Children With Special Needs

 

SLO_EFMP.pngTo ensure that you are moving to a duty location that offers the services your child may need, be sure to enroll in and consult with the Exceptional Family Member program. EFMP enrollment is mandatory and required immediately upon identification of a special need for active duty members. DOD civilians must also complete an overseas clearance with EFMP through their gaining HR or CPAC office. Command points of contact and your military treatment facility (MTF) EFMP coordinators can assist you with the enrollment process. For more information see the links below.

Exceptional Family Member Program

EFMP Military One Source

EFMP/Special Needs

US Army Medical Department EFMP

EFMP Civilian Process Flow Chart

EFMP Active Duty Process Flow Chart

DD form 2792  Medical summary

DD form 2792-1  Educational Summary ( school age children 3+)

DD form 2807 Medical History

Need a break? Contact the Respite Care program for assistance.

Educational and Developmental Intervention Services (EDIS)

Parents of special needs children under the age of 3 may be referred to the EDIS program for special education services. This federally-mandated program provides comprehensive services to eligible infants and toddlers (birth to age 3) with established developmental delays or with a condition which has a high probability of resulting in developmental delay. Referrals can be made by schools, physicians or parents. EDIS provides early intervention services for children with delays in development such as language, motor, self-help, social skills and problem solving. The EDIS team offers development support tailored to each child’s and family’s needs. EDIS also works closely with DODEA teachers to assist children over 3 years of age. Children with behavioral, motor, and physical factors that affect the learning process are serviced. EDIS professionals serve as members of each school’s Case Study Committee. (CSC) EDIS professionals may include: a physical therapist, clinical child psychologist, clinical social worker, occupational therapist, speech and language pathologist, and an early childhood special educator. The services provided—at no cost to the parent—include screenings and evaluations for diagnostic and treatment purposes, service coordination, family training and home visits, special education instruction, speech pathology and audiology, physical therapy, occupational therapy, psychological services, transportation, nutrition services, medical services for diagnostic purposes, vision services, and assistive technology devices and services.

 

To contact your local EDIS program:

DSN: (314)423-5967

Commercial: +32 (0)65-44-5967

 

Monday-Friday: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

 

Pre-School Services for Children with Disabilities

Preschoolers ages 3 through 5 with developmental delays or disabilities may be eligible to receive Preschool Services for Children with Disabilities (PSCD). Children who qualify for preschool services are eligible for PSCD on their third birthday. Children will be referred to a Case Study Committee (CSC) which is composed of DoDEA school personnel involved in the special education. When feasible, the CSC should determine eligibility prior to the child’s third birthday, so the child can begin receiving services at age three. DoDEA schools have the option to provide services to a child prior to his or her third birthday in certain circumstances. Please contact the school or EDIS for more information.

 

Free Army sponsored online training for educators and parents on a host of special education topics

DirectSTEP Information & registration

DirectSTEP course listing & key codes

 

Helpful Links on Special Needs Topics

 

504 PLANS

504 Plans and Schools 

IEP and 504 Comparison

Difference between 504 and IEP

Comparison of ADA, IDEA, and Section 504 ( pdf)

ADD /ADHD

ADD / ADHD Support

LD /ADD

AD/HD

Asthma

Asthma

Allergies

Allergies

Schools and Allergies 

Autism

Online Asperger Syndrome Information & Support 

Autism Help

First Signs

What is Autism?

Developmental Disabilities

CDC Developmental Disabilities

Developmental Disabilities and Birth Defects

DODEA Special Education Brochures

Pre-Referral Interventions: Steps Before a Special Education Referral/Assessment

Moving: Things to Remember When Relocating

Communicating Effectively: Building a Strong Partnership

Individualized Education Program (IEP): Your Role in the Process

Related Services: Understanding the Purpose of these Services

Early Intervention Services: Transitioning to Preschool Services for
Children with Disabilities

Parent Rights and Responsibilities: Insights into Your Rights and
Responsibilities

Resolving Disputes: Your Role in Reaching Resolutions

Assistive Technology: Assessment, Devices & Available Services

Dysgraphia

Dysgraphia Information page NIH

Hearing Impaired

What is Hearing Impairment?

National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders

IEPs

IEP FAQs

IEP and 504 Comparison

Difference between 504 and IEP

What is an IEP?

Getting ready for an IEP meeting

IFSPs

What is an IFSP?

Individualized Family Service Plan Template

Transition from IFSP to IEP

Learning Disabilities

Learning Disabilities in Children

Learning Disabilities

LD Online

Legislation & Rights

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services

DoDEA-Dispute-Management-Form

DODEA Special Education Parent Guidebook

DODEA Parent Rights for Special Education – Procedural Safeguards  

Military

STOMP: Special Training of Military Parents

Special Needs Toolkit for Parents

PDD

PDD-NOS  

Speech

Speech therapy

Speech Therapy Ideas and Activities

Tricare

ECHO: Extended Care Health Option

TRICARE Website

Vision Impaired

American Foundation for the Blind

Technology to Improve Learning for the Visually Impaired Child

Miscellaneous 

Yellow Pages for Kids with Disabilities

National Association for Child Development 

National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities

Special Care Organizational Record [SCOR] toolkit for parents

 

Support for Educators

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Educators, your commitment to military children truly makes the difference in the school experience our children have as they transition from installation to installation and face the challenges unique to military life. Please feel free to contact your local School Liaison Officer at anytime. We are here to support you in supporting our military families.

SLO Directories

Army Europe School Liaison Websites by Installation

Worldwide Army SLO directory

Worldwide Navy SLO Directory

Worldwide Air Force SLO Directory

Worldwide USMC SLO Directory

Training Opportunites and Support Materials

Building Resilient Kids This free online course is for school administrators, support staff and teachers to help all students meet life’s challenges with resilience, focusing primarily on students from military families. Free CEUs and options for graduate credit is available.

Direct Specialized Training for Education Professionals (DirectSTEP) provides free e-courses in a host of special education topics. They are provided free of charge to educators of military-connected children courtesy of the US Army. DirectSTEP flyerDirectSTEP codes and course listings

Educator’s Guide to the Military Child During Deployment This downloadable booklet is intended to help educators build coping skills in their students during and after a military deployment.

Exploring Military Culture Informative power point presentation created by DoDEA and Dept of Education.

Leveling the Playing Field for Military Students Informative power point presentation created by DoDEA and Department of Education

Working with Military Kids; A Primer for School Personnel This downloadable booklet provides information on issues relating to military children. There is even a great section on military acronyms and ranks!

Promising Practices The Military Impacted Schools Association has compiled a list of promising practices schools have been implemented at some locations to assist mobile military children. Please feel free to “steal ideas”.

Traumatic Grief in Military Children Educators and school personnel play important roles in supporting military children who have experienced loss. Although educators cannot—and should not—take on the responsibility of providing therapy to children who are grieving, they can be valuable partners in observing children, creating supportive environments, and knowing when to suggest referral to a mental health professional. We hope this downloadable booklet will assist if you are in the position of having a student who has experienced a loss.

Ten Things Military Teens Want You to Know Find out how military teens feel about their unique circumstances.

Teachers Involve Parents in Schoolwork (TIPS) With TIPS, any teacher can regularly keep more families informed and involved in their children’s learning and ,help more students complete their homework.

Resources

Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) EFMP is a mandatory enrollment program that works with other military and civilian agencies to provide comprehensive and coordinated community support, housing, educational, medical, and personnel services to families with special needs.

Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunities for Military Children Designed to enable cooperation between states, the compact allows for the uniform treatment of military children transferring between school districts and states. Counselors may find it helpful when sending students back to the USA to know the compact status of the new state.

Sesame Street – Military Families Free downloadable Sesame Street DVD aims to provide support and significant resources for military families with children between the ages of 2 and 5 who are experiencing the effects of deployment, multiple deployments, and combat-related injuries.

Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC) This nonprofit group is dedicated to supporting the military child in easing school transitions and providing deployment support. MCEC offers educator resources and professional development. Teachers may wish to have students participate in the many literary and art contests or apply for space camp scholarships.

Military K-12 Partners The Department of Defense’s Educational Partnership Branch website focuses on providing information that directly relates to the work of educators and administrators in military-connected school systems.

Military Kids Connect Connect with other military children (multiple age groups)

Military Impacted Schools Association

Military One Source This site provides tons of information and support to military families. Of particular interest to educators is assistance with quickly arranging free counseling for military children.


Thank you, Educators, for your dedication to our kids! Please enjoy this tribute to you all!

Youth Sponsorship and Transition Support

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Youth sponsorship programs provide opportunities to meet current students prior to (online) or upon arrival. Click on the icon below to request a youth sponsor or contact your School Liaison Officer for more information and assistance.

Sign up for a Youth Sponsor at your new installation!

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OR Contact your School Liaison Officer for more information.

Elementary New Student and Parent Orientation:

The SHAPE American Elementary School offers a New Parent and Student Orientation over a period of two days with two sessions each day for a total of four sessions.

Military Family Life Counselors/ Consultants [MFLCS] provide short term confidential counseling support to military children and families.

MFLC Contact number: +32 (0)497-653-738

SHAPE2DAY

Military Installations

Army One Source

Military One Source

Move.mil

 

More Child & Youth Services

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Kids' Day Eggstravaganza

Bring a basket for eggs!

Mar 23 11 am - 2 pm
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Spring Bazaar

Come and browse for unique items while you enjoy Spring temperatires!

May 31 1 pm - 7 pm