Read below for best practices, research, lesson plans, and activities to support the military kids in your classroom. To learn more about meeting the unique needs of military kids, read "Military Minded: How to Support Students from Military Families" in the March 2016 issue of Education Update.
Military Child Education Coalition
Through the nonprofit Military Child Education Coalition, educators can enroll in continuing education courses and access a series of guidebooks (available for purchase online) for supporting military children.
Military Family Research Institute
Based at Purdue University, the Military Family Research Institute (MFRI) aims to assist military families through research and partnerships with civilian communities. In its "How to Help" series, MFRI offers guidance targeted to early childhood educators about how to help young children of military families before, during, and after deployment. It also offers guidance for K–12 classroom teachers and support staff.
Military Interstate Children's Compact Commission
As of January 2015, all 50 states and the District of Columbia have joined The Military Interstate Children's Compact Commission (MIC3), which advocates equal treatment of military children transferring between districts and states. Read the "Guide for Parents, School Officials, and Public Administrators" to learn how the compact affects policies regarding credit transfers, absences, exit exams, and more.
Military Kids Connect
A project of the U.S. Department of Defense, Military Kids Connect offers resources for elementary, middle, and high school teachers on how to integrate military culture into the classroom.
Military-Themed Books
Military students respond well to seeing their unique experiences represented in the curriculum. To find ideas for contemporary YA military books, check out the Barnes and Noble blog post "Five Great Military-Themed YAs." The American Library Association's list of W.Y. Boyd Literary Award for Excellence in Military Fiction winners offers ideas appropriate for older students.
Supporting Military Teens
For tips and insight into the unique needs of military-connected teens, read "10 Things Military Teens Want You to Know" from the National Military Family Association.