Across the country, millions of students come to school each day carrying invisible experiences shaped by military life. While these children often show remarkable adaptability and maturity, the unique challenges of being part of a military family can deeply affect their emotional well-being, learning, and behavior.
Each November, we take time to honor and recognize military families—by understanding their experiences, we strengthen our ability to support their children both academically and emotionally.
The Weight of Frequent Moves
Military-connected students often relocate every two to three years—sometimes attending six or more schools before graduation. Each move brings academic transitions, new curricula, and the challenge of building friendships all over again.
For some students, this constant change can lead to anxiety, withdrawal, or temporary dips in academic performance. Adolescents, in particular, may struggle with disrupted friendships or uncertainty about where they fit in. Educators might notice students who appear quiet, hesitant, or disengaged—behaviors that often reflect uncertainty rather than lack of interest.
Chloe Knight (2008), daughter of Student Wellness Department Administrative Assistant, Gina Woodward. Chloe’s father, Corporal Knight, served in the United States Marine Corp from 2001-2005 and was killed in action while serving in the War on Terrorism on January 26, 2025.
Deployment Stress and Emotional Strain
When a parent is deployed, children often experience a mix of worry, sadness, and uncertainty. Younger students may not understand why a parent is gone, while older students might wrestle with anxiety about their parent’s safety.
During deployment periods—or when military news makes headlines—teachers and counselors may notice changes in students’ mood, focus, or behavior. These fluctuations are normal responses to stress and separation, but they can benefit greatly from extra care and consistency at school.
Reintegration and the Return Home
Homecoming is a joyful milestone, but it can also bring emotional complexity. Returning parents may face challenges adjusting to family life or coping with post-deployment stress. Children, in turn, may experience relief, confusion, or even resentment after months of independence or disrupted routines. Understanding these emotional dynamics helps staff support smoother family transitions.
Recognizing Signs of Distress
Military-connected students may show stress responses that mirror other mental health concerns, such as:
Increased irritability or withdrawal
Declines in grades or motivation
Difficulty concentrating
Physical complaints (stomachaches, headaches) with no medical cause
Overcompliance or hyper-responsibility in older students
Early recognition and compassionate intervention can make all the difference. School staff who respond with understanding rather than discipline can prevent escalation and strengthen trust.
What Educators Can Do:
Build stability and belonging: Create predictable routines, use peer buddies, and support smooth school transitions.
Provide emotional support: Offer check-ins, counseling, and patience through deployment and reunification changes.
Partner with families: Stay aware of deployment cycles, communicate with caregivers, and honor students’ resilience.
To learn more about creating a military-friendly school environment that benefits all students, explore the November Awareness Campaign resources.