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DODEA announced last spring the addition of full-day Pre-K starting for the 2024-2025 school year. This fall, the introduction of Pre-K programs in Department of Defense Education Activity (DODEA) schools marks a significant milestone in the education system for military families. This expansion reflects a growing recognition of the importance of early childhood education and aims to provide military-connected children with access to high-quality educational opportunities from an early age.
One key benefit of introducing Pre-K programs in DODEA schools is the opportunity to support young learners’ social, emotional, and cognitive development. Research consistently demonstrates that early childhood education is crucial in laying the foundation for future academic success and overall well-being. By offering Pre-K programs, DODEA schools can help children develop essential skills such as language, literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking in a supportive and nurturing environment.
Moreover, introducing Pre-K programs in DODEA schools aligns with broader efforts to support military families and address their unique challenges. Military families often experience frequent relocations, deployments, and other stressors that can disrupt children’s educational experiences. By providing Pre-K programs on military installations, DODEA schools can help mitigate the impact of these challenges by offering stability, continuity, and consistency in early childhood education.
Additionally, the availability of Pre-K programs in DODEA schools can enhance the overall educational experience for military-connected children and their families. By starting their educational journey in a familiar and supportive environment, children can develop a sense of belonging and community, positively impacting their academic performance, social relationships, and overall well-being. Furthermore, Pre-K programs can serve as a valuable resource for military families, providing access to early intervention services, special education support, and other resources to meet the diverse needs of young learners.
The implementation of Pre-K has a three-phase implementation plan. Phase I includes installations with available appropriate facilities, while Phase II locations require minor facility adjustments (bathrooms, playgrounds, etc.). Schools identified for Phase III will need more extensive modifications or construction to support expanding PK classrooms. The phases ensure that all schools in the DODEA system are ready for an universal roll out of Pre-K in the fall of 24-25 school year.
The introduction of Pre-K programs in DODEA schools this fall represents a significant step forward in supporting the educational needs of military-connected children. DODEA schools can help ensure that all children can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally, regardless of their family’s military status or circumstances by prioritizing early childhood education and providing access to high-quality Pre-K programs.
