U.S. Department of Defense Education Activity (DODEA) schools around the world would be able to maintain current student-to-teacher ratios through the 2029-2030 DODEA academic year under bipartisan legislation sponsored on Nov. 8 by U.S. Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE).
The Success for Military Connected Students Act, H.R. 6287, which is cosponsored by U.S. Rep. Jeff Jackson (D-NC), would extend the maximum number of students-to-teacher ratio directive for DODEA schools that was set in the fiscal year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act by Congress at 18:1 for grades K-3 and about 24:1 for grades 3-12, according to a bill summary provided by Rep. Bacon’s staff.
“Numerous studies have shown that lower student-to-teacher ratios provide a better-quality education for students and continuing these mandated levels will ensure the dependents of our service members receive the best education no matter where their family is stationed,” Rep. Bacon said. “I thank Rep. Jackson for joining me in this bipartisan effort to service those who sacrifice so much for our country.”
DODEA schools provide quality educational opportunities and services to military dependents around the globe and currently have more than 66,000 military children enrolled in 160 schools located in 11 foreign countries, seven states, and two territories, the summary says, and they also provide support and resources to local school districts throughout the country that serve children of military families.
“We have an obligation to ensure their children have access to a great education and that DODEA remains one of the highest achieving school systems in the world,” said Rep. Jackson. “This bill will prevent increases to class sizes and ensure that our teachers can provide students with the excellent education they deserve. I’m proud to join Rep. Bacon to introduce it in the House.”
H.R. 6287 is supported by the National Education Association and has been referred for consideration to both the U.S. House Armed Services Committee and the U.S. House Education and the Workforce Committee.