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Military Child Month

March 10, 2026

How Deployment Impacts Students in School

Military families go through many changes before, during, and after deployment. Each stage can feel different and bring its own challenges. While the whole family is affected, children often feel these changes in big ways, especially at school.

When a parent deploys, children may feel worried, sad, or unsure. When that parent returns home, there can also be an adjustment period. These emotional ups and downs can affect how a child learns, behaves, and connects with others at school.

How It Can Affect School

Military children may:

Move to a new school, sometimes in the middle of the year
Have to adjust to new teachers and classmates
Learn different lessons because states have different standards
Feel distracted or emotional in class
Experience delays in special education or 504 services during transitions

If your child receives special education services, frequent moves can make things more complicated. It is helpful to keep copies of IEPs, evaluations, and important school records so you can share them quickly with a new school.

What Schools Can Do

Teachers and schools can make a big difference. Simple support helps, like:

Checking in with students during big transitions
Being flexible when a family is going through deployment
Offering counseling support if needed
Creating a welcoming classroom environment

Even small acts of understanding can help a child feel safe and supported.