AF-wide education program helps ease school moves for Airmen, family members

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Frances Locquiao
  • 23rd Wing Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  Moving from one school to another can be a challenging time for many military children. It can be especially difficult when they are adjusting to a new environment after a permanent change of station move.

The Military Child Education Program helps provide advocates for the educational needs of military children and ensures a smoother transition into a new school.

The Air Force-wide program assists Airmen and their families with information regarding local school districts and other educational options including home schooling, private schools, charter schools and virtual schools.

"A child's education is probably one of the first and foremost concerns of any parent," said Sharon Ledbetter, spouse of Tech. Sgt. Patrick Ledbetter, 41st Rescue Squadron. "The program allows for easier access to the school systems within any given location due to the ability of contracting one person on the military base as a school's liaison."

Ann Lukens has been Moody's school liaison officer since April 2008.

"I've developed a working relationship with school superintendents from the school systems within the local area," said Mrs. Lukens. "It gives me an opportunity to educate them as well as classroom teachers and guidance counselors about the unique issues impacting military children."

It's important to be involved because anything that affects family life also affects the mission, she added.

Mrs. Lukens also tries to attend the school board meetings that are held quarterly.

"During the meetings, I listen for issues that may be of concern to military parents and get an understanding of the different school system cultures," she said. "I also answer questions that individuals may have concerning military matters."

In addition, the school liaison officer monitors any significant changes in school demographics that may affect education funding and they manage the request for excused absences. The excused absence program allows children to spend up to five days with a parent before or after a deployment.

Mrs. Lukens can also assist families with problems not resolved after using the school's chain of command.

"I have two children attending Dewar Elementary School and during my husband's deployment, there have been issues in which I've sought Mrs. Lukens' help," said Mrs. Ledbetter. "Her assistance has been invaluable in helping me with those issues."

Besides information about individual schools, Mrs. Lukens can provide a list of Georgia requirements, a permanent change of station quick reference guide, standardized test information and special needs information.

For more information, contact Mrs. Lukens at 257-4380 or visit her office, located in the services building next to the outdoor pool.

"Mrs. Lukens has the knowledge and contact information to jump start the education process or provide assistance," said Mrs. Ledbetter. "This program is definitely a bonus for our military families."