School Liaison Officer

We know the importance of choosing a school that best meets the needs of your military child(ren). Even though we cannot make direct recommendations for schools, we are available to help you acquire information and research the school options in your area. We can provide general information on districts and help you determine what schools you might be zoned for once you have a residence.

A new education law replaced No Child Left Behind in 2015. Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) was signed by President Obama on December 10, 2015 and represents good news for our nation’s schools. This bipartisan measure reauthorizes the 50-year-old Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), the nation’s national education law, and longstanding commitment to equal opportunity for all students. The new law builds on key areas of progress in recent years, made possible by the efforts of educators, communities, parents, and students across the country. For more information, please visit: https://www.ed.gov/ESSA

Immunization and health check requirements can be found on most Public Education Department websites.

This depends on the school district where you are enrolling your child. We recommend that once you establish residence, that you contact the school directly. However, you can prepare to use the Checklist for School Moves to ensure that you hand-carry all necessary documents.

Most military housing areas and school districts within the school boundaries of military housing are familiar with this situation. We recommend that you ask your local housing office for a letter indicating that you are on the waitlist and moving into housing within 30 days. Most times, this is all the schools need to proceed with registration. If you have questions or issues, please contact your SL.

The Military Interstate Compact seeks to make the transition easier for the children of military families to be afforded the same opportunities for educational success as other children and are not penalized or delayed in achieving their educational goals. More information can be found at www.mic3.net or through your installation School Liaison.

Before and After school care has created a challenge for some families, given the lack of availability. We recommend you start looking for care early! As soon as you arrive and have registered your child in school, begin by asking your school or district what they offer. This is many times the best option, mainly if they provide on-site care. If they don’t, many times, the school knows what is available close to the school or in your community. If you are still having difficulty, contact your School Liaison. The SL works with you to find other options or refers you to the installation Family Child Care or Community Care Coordinator.

Your School Liaison can help you with the school or district’s special needs navigation where you plan to enroll your child(ren). You should also contact the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) to ensure that you are registered and have all the information and resources they offer.

*Please note that the Marine Corps School Liaisons do not assist with Special Needs navigation. They have an EFMP representative that covers both medical and educational assistance. This is important to know since we work jointly to serve our military families.

The School Liaisons are not able to advocate on your behalf. In our program, we offer information, resources, and help you find the right people to talk to at the school or district.

If you ever have issues with your IEP or school, please call your School Liaison since we also have many community resources that can offer guidance and direct assistance.