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Ohio Department of Education
ODE Celebrates New
Graduates Headed to U.S. Military
In a first-ever ceremony held at The Ohio State University, the Ohio
Department of Education celebrated the members of the class of 2018 who
are joining the U.S. military.
“Ohio salutes these recent graduates and we beam with pride as they
take the first steps into their careers in the U.S. military,” said
Paolo DeMaria, superintendent of public instruction. “In service to our
country, opportunity of all kinds awaits them. We wish them well as
they embark on this new journey.”
The dozens of recent graduates in attendance signed unofficial
documents indicating their commitment to the military branch of their
choice. Several representatives from the various branches spoke in
support of Ohio’s new recruits.
"When these young men and women raised their right hands to take the
oath, they publicly committed to defend our Constitution. They will
join a rich heritage of selfless service to defend the freedoms we
enjoy in our great nation," said Maj. Gen. Mark E. Bartman, Ohio
adjutant general. "I am honored to participate in this ceremony, and I
wish each new enlistee a successful military career."
In Ohio’s five-year strategic plan for education (Each Child, Our
Future) passed earlier this week by the State Board of Education,
serving in the military is one of four pathways for high school
graduates identified in the state’s goal.
The Ohio Department of Education supports the state’s military families
and veterans in several important ways. For veterans with honorable
discharges and current service members, there are no fees for educator
licenses. In addition, the Troops to Teachers program assists
transitioning service members and veterans in beginning new careers as
teachers in schools across Ohio.
Ohio also is one of 35 states involved in the Interstate Compact for
Educational Opportunities for Military Children, which works to ensure
military children are properly enrolled in schools, have eligibility
for school activities and have assistance in meeting graduation
requirements.
To recognize schools with a major commitment to serving military
families, the Department recently created the Purple Star designation.
Purple Star awardees receive a special Purple Star banner to display in
their buildings.
In addition to the Purple Star, the Ohio Department of Education most
recently launched the Ohio Network for Military Families and Veterans.
The network provides an online hub of necessary information and
relevant tools for principals, counselors, teachers and families.
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