In a recent government meeting, school liaison officers Janet Ferris and Ernest \"Kay\" Kincaid highlighted the challenges faced by military families during school transitions. Representing Fort Wainwright and Iowson Air Force Base, the duo expressed gratitude to local organizations, including the North Pole Chamber of Commerce and military family life counselors, for their support in welcoming new students to North Pole Middle and High Schools.
Ferris emphasized the importance of making students feel welcome, noting the positive feedback from families regarding the transition process. Kincaid elaborated on their roles, which include assisting military families with school transitions, connecting them with resources at their next duty stations, and fostering partnerships between military families and local schools.
The officers also discussed their involvement in legislative efforts aimed at improving educational opportunities for all students, not just those from military backgrounds. They underscored the significance of community engagement, stating that military families are integral to the local community and benefit from collaborative initiatives.
In response to inquiries about their services, Ferris and Kincaid provided information on how families can reach them through district websites and direct contact methods. They expressed enthusiasm for expanding their outreach to include Coast Guard families and emphasized their commitment to supporting all educational environments, including public, private, and home schools.
The meeting concluded with a call for continued collaboration and communication to ensure that military families receive the support they need during transitions, reinforcing the notion that these families are valued members of the community.