School Liaison Officers
The role and responsibilities of the School Liaison Officer has grown tremendously over the past years. With over 90 percent of military children educated in non-Department of Defense schools, School Liaison Officers often act as the first point of contact for military families transitioning into a new community. Their job is to work in partnership with local schools, families, and the community to meet the educational needs of military children. They also provide commanders and superintendents with necessary support to help them advise military parents on educational issues.
Many School Liaison Officers have also been instrumental in helping local and state officials to understand the importance of the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children. As member states establish State Councils (in accordance with Article VIII of the Interstate Compact), military family education liaisons, namely School Liaison Officers, will act as ex-officio members and assist military families and the state in implementing the compact.
In addition to performing these duties, School Liaison Officers are responsible for helping to:
- Identify any barriers to academic success.
- Develop practical solutions.
- Promote parental involvement in their children's education.
- Provide parents with needed tools to overcome educational obstacles that stem from the military lifestyle.
- Foster and coordinate partnerships in education.
- Educate local communities and schools regarding the needs of military children.
Information on service specific School Liaison Programs is available here.
Until military families are relieved of the weight of war, we hope you will continue to contribute to their wellbeing.
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