DoDEA to Discontinue Remote Home School Program

American Forces Press Service

Jan. 24, 2007 – The Department of Defense Education Activity will discontinue its Remote Home School Program beginning in school year 2007-2008, DoDEA officials announced today. "We understand this unique program is valued by our families," said Joseph D. Tafoya, DoDEA director. "Unfortunately, with the funding allocation and grants expiring for this program at the end of school year 2006-2007, we will have to discontinue the Remote Location Home Schooling Program."

DoDEA plans, directs, coordinates and manages the education programs for Defense Department family members who would otherwise not have access to a high-quality public education. Although operating a home-schooling program is outside of its directed mission, officials said, DoDEA has administered the Remote Home School Program since school year 2001-2002, when it received the first in a series of unsolicited allocations and grants to support the program.

DoDEA cannot continue administering the program with the funding authorizations and grants expiring, and by law, DoDEA is not permitted to lobby for funds to continue operating the program, officials explained.

"We truly regret the disruption this may cause students and families," Tafoya said. "We do not take this decision lightly; it is the result of careful analysis of the needs of our directed mission."

Officials said DoDEA will help students and families in any way possible in transitioning from the home-schooling program. Based on their home location, students and families may choose to enroll in a local DoDEA-administered school or public school. They may also choose to attend a private school or to participate in a home-schooling program of their choice at their own expense.

Article sponsored by military and police personnel who have authored books; and criminal justice online leadership.