Thursday, April 4, 2024
In honor of the unique challenges and contributions of military children, April is designated as Month of the Military Child. Over 1.6 million military children make sacrifices, experience numerous transitions, demonstrate resilience, overcome barriers, and make a positive impact. Military children lead lives that are often filled with change, frequent moves, deployments of loved ones, and the demands of military life. They display remarkable courage, adaptability, and strength.
The state of Wisconsin is dedicated to supporting and ensuring equitable access to educational opportunities for our military children. State Superintendent Dr. Jill Underly and Governor Tony Evers have proclaimed April as Month of the Military Child. Through the legislature (Wis. Stat. § 14.91), Wisconsin participates in the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children. The Interstate Compact is an agreement among states to support the seamless educational transition of military children as they move from one state to another. It addresses key educational challenges faced by military-connected children, such as enrollment, eligibility, placement, and graduation requirements. The compact aims to ensure that these children receive the same high-quality education and support services, regardless of where they live due to their parents' military service.
As we celebrate our military children, we can show appreciation with a kind word to make them feel welcome and included, a helping hand to overcome an obstacle, a simple gesture of gratitude for their sacrifice, and learning more about ensuring equitable opportunities for military children as set forth in Wis. Stat. § 115.997.
Resources to support our military students and celebrate April Month of the Military Child can be found on DPI’s webpage.