MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. -- Air University and organizations across the River Region have made strides to improve public education options for military-affiliated children.
Recent changes made by local districts and the Department of Defense have expanded eligibility, while national organizations have focused attention on regional efforts.
Air Force and Department of Defense Education Activity officials recently made changes to eligibility requirements, allowing military families living in the Maxwell Famcamp to enroll in the Maxwell Elementary/Middle School.
“Air University is committed to continuing the efforts started in January with local district leadership and looks forward to continued engagements and improved educational opportunities across the region,” said Lt. Gen. Anthony Cotton, Air University commander and president. “Planning is already underway on a day-long workshop in September, hosted by Alabama State University”
The Autauga County School Board has also approved a pilot out-of-district flexible enrollment program allowing parents with orders to Maxwell AFB and Gunter Annex the option to enroll their children in Autauga County schools. Schools included in this program are Prattville High, Prattville Junior High, Prattville Intermediate, Prattville Elementary, Prattville Primary and Prattville Kindergarten.
“I’d like to thank the Autauga County School Board for approving the Flexible Enrollment pilot program for the next school year and providing expanded options for military-affiliated children,” Cotton said. “While this new program allows for more education options, this does not signal an end to the progress we continue to make with schools and community organizations across the River Region.”
Parents wishing to take advantage of the Autauga County schools program must contact the participating schools, or can get the necessary forms from the school liaison officer on Maxwell AFB. The program is also open to students of a civilian faculty member at Air University, or civilian or military students attending Air University, in addition to military personnel assigned to Maxwell and Gunter.
“The efforts and progress we have seen from all the local districts in improving educational options speaks to the tremendous desire for success across the region,” said Col. Patrick Carley, 42nd Air Base Wing commander. “We will continue to work with all the local districts and communities to make the River Region a great place to live and work.”
In addition to local efforts, representatives from Air University and Montgomery Public Schools were invited to participate in a panel discussion at the Association of Defense Communities in Washington, D.C. While there, they focused on how the military and local organizations can work together to improve quality of life concerns.
Chief of Staff of the Air Force Gen. David Goldfein also addressed the ADC summit, where he emphasized the importance of quality schools and military spouse employment.