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Transition Planning for Military Families:

We offer school tours to make the transition to our school as smooth as possible. Families can schedule tours by calling our front office. During these tours, one of our Student Government members will participate as we guide families through the campus, showcasing our welcoming environment. Our enrollment team, consisting of the Registrar, Guidance Counselor, and Administrative staff, works collaboratively to ensure a seamless transition process. We prioritize individual needs and concerns, making exhaustive efforts to address the specific requirements of each student.

Academic Planning for Military Families:

We understand that academic planning for our students is unique and individualized. We also understand that military families are often moving to our school from out of state and are encountering a new set of academic procedures. Before each student’s first day of school, our guidance counselor and administrators meet with the student and their parents to understand the individualized instruction the student will need, in addition to essential health and behavioral support. The IEP team, including the family, will meet to establish an individualized educational plan that will be in the student's best interest.

Resources for Military Families:

Margaret K. Lewis School offers many resources and opportunities that meet educational needs and beyond. We have a school-wide Positive Behavior System that empowers students to be Successful, Optimistic, Ambitious, and Responsible. Our military students have the opportunity to join several groups according to their interests, such as our “Go Green” recycling team, our Student Government Association, and our cheerleaders. We have a thriving “ARTism” program that utilizes art therapy. These unique art pieces are displayed and sold at several community events. Our Academy students participate in job training, vocational rehabilitation, and community outings to increase independence as they enter adulthood.

Student-Led Transition Team (S2S Club):

Our Student Government is dedicated to community service in and out of school. These students serve as support tour guides for our military students and are welcoming friendly faces. They help with orienting to the campus and meeting new staff and students.

Support for Military ESE Children:

We understand the importance of students with exceptional needs and that our military students may have additional transitional needs. Our teachers are certified in Exceptional Student Education and adopt a team approach to ensuring each student’s success. This is achieved through ongoing professional development, trained support staff, and close collaboration with our many service providers, including physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech pathologists, teachers of the visually impaired, and behavior specialists. Each student’s IEP is reviewed annually. Data is collected continuously, and parents receive regular updates on their child’s progress.

 

Military Recognition Events:

It is an honor to support our military students and their families. We participate in “Purple Up Day” school-wide to show recognition and appreciation. During the “Month of the Military Child” we select one military student who has exhibited strength of character. The family is invited to the school to appear on the morning announcements in recognition of their service. At our “Eagle of the Month” ceremonies, we have members of the Coast Guard who attend the ceremony and help present each student with their award. Several of our classes visit the local Veterans’ Home to spend time with the residents and present them with cards or other gifts.

Mental Health Resources For Military Families:

Military students have access to mental health support through various resources. We have a certified school counselor who works with students on social curriculum. Our student wellness team provides lessons on many concepts, such as anxiety, confidence and peacefulness. The student wellness team is also available to complete daily check-in and check-out meetings with students who may be experiencing increased struggles and can facilitate getting outside services set up for the student through a community of care referral. Additionally, we have a dedicated ESE counselor who is available to serve students at our school. Some military students require an individualized behavior plan. We have a behavior specialist on staff who works with students, teachers, and families to maximize success in the school environment. We can also facilitate connecting military families with one of the local Military and Family Life Counselors.

Any Other Military/Related Details/Programs:

We have a display at the entrance to our cafeteria to highlight staff members who have served in the military or have been a military spouse or child. This display includes photographs of the staff members during their time of service.

Margaret K. Lewis School Military Point of Contact:

Crystal Hudson
850-767-1792

OCSD Resources

BDS Resources for Military Families

The Bay District Schools website has a detailed list of Military Family Resources and Educational Opportunities to best assist your family. It contains a PCS document, services, programs, educational resources, and so much more to aid in the success of your educational goals.

BDS Military Families Tool-Kit

Scholarships

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