DODEA EVALUATION TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE CENTER (ETAC)

The Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) is thrilled to announce the awarding of grants to 8 local education agencies (LEAs) across the United States, aimed at enhancing the educational experiences of military-connected students.

Since 2009, DoDEA has awarded 717 grants to nearly 130 school districts in 39 states and Washington, D.C., amounting to more than $840 million. These grants have positively impacted over three million students, including more than one million military-connected students nationwide.

DoDEA grants are designed to improve educational outcomes, close achievement gaps, and ensure continuity of education for highly transient military-connected students. For FY25, eight World Language Advancement and Readiness Program (WLARP) grants were awarded.

Congress has allocated $10 million specifically for the WLARP with the goal of enhancing foreign language programs for elementary and secondary students. These funds will support the establishment, improvement, or expansion of world language studies in DoDEA schools and other eligible school districts.

Thanks to ongoing Congressional support, this marks the fourth consecutive year that DoDEA has awarded grants to develop or expand world language programs for K-12 students. Research shows that early language learning leads to higher proficiency, making it crucial for developing the skills needed for national security and economic competitiveness.

The DoDEA Education Partnership and Resources Division extends its support to military-connected students in both U.S. and international locations not directly served by DoDEA schools. Through collaboration with various partners, the division provides technical assistance, resources, and support to ensure universal learning experiences for transitioning students from pre-K through grade 12.