Hawai‘i is home to a significant number of military families, with more than 10,000 children of active-duty service members attending public schools across the state. These students often face unique challenges, such as frequent relocations, adjusting to new schools, and coping with transitions that can disrupt their educational journey. To address these challenges and support educational continuity, the Joint Venture Education Forum (JVEF) was established in 1999.
JVEF is a partnership between the Hawai‘i Department of Education (HIDOE) and the military community, working to prov de military-connected students with the resources and support they need to thrive academically and socially.
Since 2000, nearly $60 million in funding has been managed under JVEF-supported initiatives—supporting programs like new playgrounds, textbooks, technology upgrades, transition centers and curricular support in math, science, language arts, fine arts and robotics programs.
Easing School Transitions for Military Families
Military-connected students often change schools multiple times throughout their K-12 education, sometimes as often as every two to three years. To help them adjust, JVEF supports the establishment of Transition Centers in public schools across Hawai‘i. These centers provide:
- Peer mentors who welcome new students and help them acclimate to their new school.
- School tours, guidance on class schedules, and introductions to staff.
- Activities that encourage relationship-building and community integration.
Enhancing Educational Opportunities through Collaboration
One of JVEF’s core goals is to enhance educational quality for military-connected students. Through partnerships with military and civilian education experts, JVEF supports programs that include:
- Hands-on STEM projects, coding camps, and science fairs sponsored by military units to encourage interest in technology and engineering.
- After-school enrichment activities that align with both academic and social development goals.
- Tutoring and academic support in core subjects to ensure students stay on track despite frequent moves.
Building Community Connections and Cultural Awareness
Understanding and respecting Hawai‘i’s unique cultural landscape is essential for military families moving to the islands. JVEF promotes cultural sensitivity training for educators, military personnel, and families to help bridge the gap between military and civilian communities. Through partnerships with local organizations, JVEF helps organize:
- Cultural competency workshops teaching newcomers about Hawaiian customs, traditions, and community values.
- Community events that bring together military and local families, fostering mutual respect and understanding.
- Student-led projects where military-connected students learn about Hawaiian culture and share their own experiences with peers.
Addressing Social and Emotional Challenges
Frequent relocations can take an emotional toll on students, impacting their well-being and academic performance. JVEF addresses these challenges by supporting mental health resources and counseling services within schools.
- School counselors and social workers trained to understand the unique stressors faced by military-connected students.
- Peer support programs encouraging students to share experiences and build resilience together.
- Workshops for parents helping families understand the signs of stress and how to support their children during transitions.
Honoring Military-Connected Educators and Students
JVEF also recognizes the contributions of military-connected educators and students through annual awards and special recognition programs.
Supporting military connected students is about more than just meeting academic needs; it’s about fostering a sense of belonging and stability during times of change. Through continued collaboration and innovation, JVEF remains committed to helping every military-connected student succeed.