Preschool/Sure Start
DoDEA Sure Start Program
Sure Start is an exemplary, research-based preschool program that serves four-year-old dependents of military service members and civilian equivalent and their families living in overseas locations. In addition to offering a high-quality educational program that reflects best practices in the field, Sure Start also provides health and nutrition, social services, and parent involvement components. Close collaboration between families, schools, and the installation community is valued and viewed as essential and is a required part of the program.
This multi-pronged approach to the delivery of services distinguishes Sure Start from all other DoDEA programs. At the same time, Sure Start ensures that participating children receive the same uncompromisingly excellent education that all DoDEA students are guaranteed.
Who Can Apply?
Sure Start’s foremost responsibility is to eligible children who turn four by 1 September of the enrolling school year. Priority enrollment is given to the children of Servicemembers whose rank is Enlisted (E) E1 to E4, GS1 to GS4 or NAF1 or NAF 2. Any sponsor in the rank of E5 to E9, GS5-GS8, NAF 3-4, who wishes to apply for the program is eligible to do so with the understanding that first priority is given to those children whose sponsor is in the E1 to E4 rank.
Note: Application must be downloaded to your computer in order to fill it out. Please right-click on the link and select "Save As" and save the file to your desktop.
Parent Participation Requirements
Sure Start parent participation is valued and integral to the success of the program. Parents must agree to participate in their children’s class as a precondition to their child’s enrollment. Thirty hours per parent are required for each participating family. Both parents in two-parent families are expected to contribute their time equally. Parents who are deployed for an extended period of time are still expected to volunteer, but will have a modified schedule during the time of deployment.
