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Issue Explainer

Department of Defense Schools

The Federal Education Association, an NEA affiliate, advocates for employee rights and quality learning environments in Department of Defense schools serving military-connected students with unique challenges such as parental deployments and frequent moves.
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By: National Education Association
Published: 12/02/2021

The Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) oversees 164 schools serving more than 73,000 students in 11 foreign countries, 7 states, Guam, and Puerto Rico.

Military-connected students are top performers despite the challenges of parental deployments and frequent moves.

On the 2019 National Assessment of Educational Progress, the nation’s report card, fourth and eighth graders in DoDEA schools were either at the top of the charts or in second place.

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U.S. Navy Hispital Corpsman administers a COVID-19 vaccination booster to a Japanese base employee on Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka

Restore DoDEA Educators’ Access to Health Care

Military-connected educators in Japan have trouble getting what they need.

Email President Biden and Secretary Austin

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DoDEA Educators Shouldn’t Be Forced to Work for Free

Educators working on stateside military bases are required to work for up to 24 additional hours per quarter without pay. Congress must intervene to end this unfair policy.

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Letters & Testimony

NEA speaks up for the rights of students. Browse recent messages to Congressional leadership, and add your voice.

See all Department of Defense Schools Letters & Testimony

Bills in Congress

Learn NEA's position on pending legislation related to public education, and take action to protect our schools

See all Department of Defense Schools Bills in Congress
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The National Education Association (NEA), the nation's largest professional employee organization, is committed to advancing the cause of public education. NEA's 3 million members work at every level of education—from pre-school to university graduate programs. NEA has affiliate organizations in every state and in more than 14,000 communities across the United States.
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