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HomeEducation and Youth...Education Frequently Asked Questions

# 									Education Frequently Asked Questions							

Global Community Liaison Office

		Ask GCLO Education 		

## 								Education and Youth Team assembled Frequently Asked Questions 							

        -  These FAQs include information on boarding schools, transition to Washington, allowances, special needs, and more. We encourage families to utilize the FAQs for more information on education related questions. 
        -  GCLO’s Education and Youth Team hosted an Ask GCLO! Live virtual session on December 1, 2022. They answered questions on school-to-school transitions, college and beyond, special education needs, homeschooling, virtual/online learning, scholarships and awards, child care, preschools, and summer camps. Listen to the recording on GCLO’s YouTube channel. 

##### Child Care

        - Where can I find child care options at post?
        - Where can I find child care options in the Washington, DC area?
        - Can you explain how the child care subsidy works?

##### College Resources

        - Where can I find resources for the college search, financial aid, college athletic recruiting, and scholarships?
        - When is the Educational Travel Allowance processed?

##### Community

        - A situation came up regarding bullying. Are there any suggestions that you can provide?
        - Are there any solutions/suggestions you can provide for dealing with bus misbehavior issues?
        - What can be done about the limited extracurricular activities after school at post?

##### Home Study

        - What are some factors that I should think about while considering home study in the Foreign Service?
        - **How do I find out if home study is legal in my host country?**
        - **What do I do if I learn that home study is not legal in my host country?**
        - Do I need to file an affidavit in the state where I am following the home study standards?
        - How do I begin looking for a home study program?
        - How should I evaluate home study private instruction programs?
        - What is the best curriculum/program and what are the best resources for you to use?
        - We have been asked to verify that we are meeting state requirements. How do we do this?
        - Are there any opportunities to discuss general home study issues with other FS families?
        - Are Home study programs accredited?
        - How are transcripts provided for my children?
        - How do I transition my child to home study and then back to a regular school?
        - How does my child apply to college?
        - What other things can I do to make a successful transition to home study?
        - **What changes were made to the DSSR 270 effective June 19, 2022 regarding Allowable and Non-Allowable expenses for the “School at Post”, “School Away from Post”, and “Home Study/Private Instruction/Virtual Schooling”?**

##### Educational Allowances

        - When is the Away-from-Post Education Allowance processed?
        - Where can I find the rates for the Away-from-Post Education Allowance for my post?
        - Will the Away-from-Post Education Allowance change during my tour?
        - What are the regulations regarding my child starting Kindergarten?
        - What changes were made to the DSSR 270 effective June 19, 2022 regarding Allowable and Non-Allowable expenses for the “School at Post”, “School Away from Post”, and “Home Study/Private Instruction/Virtual Schooling”?
        - What is considered “beyond daily commuting distance”? The definition for “school away from post” under DSSR 271e “means an elementary or secondary school so far beyond daily commuting distance of the employee’s post as to necessitate room and board in connection with attendance.”
        - What changes were made to the DSSR 270 effective November 20, 2022 regarding Special Needs Education Allowance for SNEA-School at Post, SNEA-School Away from Post, and SNEA-Home Study/Private Instruction/Virtual Schooling? 

##### **Boarding Schools**

        - Does your office have any recommendations for boarding schools?
        - Our family is currently serving at an embassy overseas and our child is attending boarding school in a neighboring country. Would they have access to the embassy’s medical unit in that country?
        - If my child needs to be medevaced from their boarding school, would the embassy’s medical unit in the country where they are attending boarding school be involved in their evacuation?

##### Other General Information

        - Where can I find resources for teaching overseas?
        - Where can I find resources on summer camps in the Washington D.C. area?
        - How can I get in touch with the CLO at post?
        - Where can I find information on getting my GED?
        - How can a family member enroll in Foreign Service Institute (FSI) courses?
        - Where can I find information on scholarships and youth awards in the foreign affairs community?
        - **Where can I find information on scholarships and education discounts for adult family members and partners in the foreign affairs community?**
        - **Are employed family members eligible for the Student Loan Repayment Program (SLRP) or the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)?**

##### Overseas Schools

        - **Can I be reimbursed for testing fees to take standardized tests similar to those offered in the U.S., such as AP and/or IB exams and pre-SATs?**
        - Where can I find information on overseas schools?
        - What are my options at post if the schools are deemed ‘inadequate’ or lack accreditation?
        - I’m a parent and I’ve run into an issue with the administration at our school. With whom can I consult about the approach I should take?
        - Aren’t the overseas schools required to admit my child into their school?

##### Special Needs

        - What assistance can I receive at-post for my child who has special needs?
        - What assistance can I receive in the Washington area for my child who has special needs?
        - What are the public school special needs programs in Virginia, District of Columbia, and Maryland
        - How often do I need to reapply for my child’s SNEA?
        - What changes were made to 3 FAM 3280 Special Needs Education Allowance, effective November 9, 2022? 

##### Supplemental Instruction

        - Where can I find information on the Supplemental Education Allowance?
        - My child is Gifted and Talented (GT). Are there any State Department resources we can use?
        - **Can I use funds for Supplementary Instruction (DSSR 274.12a and 276.9) to help offset COVID-19 learning challenges?**
        - Can I use the Supplementary Instruction Allowance during the break between school years?
        - Is reimbursement for Supplementary Instruction allowed while on home leave, renewal agreement travel or R&R?
        - Is reimbursement for Supplementary Instruction allowed while evacuated from a post? 
        - Do students on Authorized/Ordered Departure (AD/OD) have access to Supplementary Instruction (DSSR 274.12a and DSSR 276.9) to assist with online instruction?

##### Support Resources

        -  **What Department of State resources are available to foreign service families for parenting support?** 
        - Are there youth mental health resources for foreign service children and adolescents?

##### Transition to Washington

        - What are the public school options in the Washington, DC area?
        - Where can I find information about schools in Virginia?
        - What resources would you recommend for Foreign Service parents?
        - What resources do you have on transition?
        - What is the “the best” school in the Washington, DC area?

----

##### ****Child Care

**1. Where can I find child care options at post?**
        - Child Care Reports can be obtained by contacting the CLO Coordinators at post by email using the format CLOnameofpost@state.gov, e.g. clozagreb@state.gov .

**2. Where can I find child care options in the Washington, DC area?**
        - The Department of State has a number of resources available to Foreign Service families looking for child care. The  Foreign Service Institute’s  Children’s Center and Diplotots are frequently used by Foreign Service families.           - FSI Children’s Center – Contact the Children’s Center at 703-302-7501.
          - Diplotots – Located at Columbia Plaza (across the street from the Harry S. Truman building). Contact Diplotots at 202-663-3555 or at  **Diplotots@state.gov** . 
        - In the Washington, DC area, there are many options for child care. Please check  GCLO’s website  for additional child care resources. Note that many child care centers in the metropolitan area fill up early and there can be long waiting lists.

**3. Can you explain how the child care subsidy works?**
        - Child Care Subsidy Program for Domestically-Employed DOS Employees: If you meet State’s eligibility criteria (see below), your child care costs may be reduced. As a need-based program, the amount you receive depends on your total family income and the amount you pay for child care. To qualify for the subsidy you must:           - Be a Domestically-Employed Department of State employee (part-time employees are eligible).
          - Have a total family income of $170,000 or less.
          - Place your child in a licensed day care, home care, summer day camp or after-school program. 
        - Note: Only available in the U.S. For more information and application procedures, contact GTM/ER/WLP at  CCSP@state.gov  or by calling 202-559-7042.
        - You may find the above information and more on child care on the  GCLO website .

##### ****College Resources

**1. Where can I find resources for the college search, financial aid, college athletic recruiting, and scholarships?**
        - Please visit our College and Beyond  webpage  for numerous resources on college searches, financial aid options, college athletic recruiting, and scholarship suggestions. Also, check out the  College Application Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  for answers to the most common questions regarding the college application process.

**2. When is the Educational Travel Allowance processed?**
        - When you arrive at post you can pursue getting your son’s/daughter’s educational travel. The funding for his/her travel will come from post.
        - Educational Travel  DSSR280 , Educational Travel  FAQs .
        - Office of Allowances Email –  AllowancesO@state.gov .

##### ****Community

**1. A situation came up regarding bullying. Are there any suggestions that you can provide?**
        - Contact the classroom teacher and school administration immediately to address the situation.           - Consult with the Regional Medical Officer (RMO) or Regional Medical Officer/Psychiatrist (RMO/P).
          - The  Office of Overseas Schools  Regional Education Officers (REOs) are available, if needed, to intervene with the school administration and can send a consultant to post who can provide resources and information in order to stop any harmful behavior.
          - Talk to your children about what’s going on.
          - Contact and collaborate with other concerned parents.
          - Contact the GCLO’s Education and Youth team at  GCLOAskEducation@state.gov .
          - If the situation warrants, CLO might organize an event to bring together parents and resources (RMO, RMO/P, School officials) to discuss bullying and prevention and share ideas and concerns. 

**2. Are there any solutions/suggestions you can provide for dealing with bus misbehavior issues?**
        - If bus transportation is provided by the school, contact the school administration and let them know what’s been happening on the bus (bullying, rough housing, etc).
        - If bus transportation is provided by the mission, work with the GSO, Employee Association or whichever office is responsible for the transportation, and let them know what’s been happening on the bus. Also, inform the school authorities of the misbehavior issues. They may provide some direct assistance or offer useful suggestions.
        - Work with other parents and consider establishing a ‘bus patrol’ program. This program can be supervised by parents and can provide rotating parents and/or youth bus patrols that supervise and log any misbehavior on the bus.

**3. What can be done about the limited extracurricular activities after school at post?**
        - You may not find your child’s favorite after school activity already organized and available at post, but as a parent you may be able to help establish a program for your child. Teachers and other community members may be able to help; don’t be afraid to reach out to others for assistance.           - Find out what your child and his/her friends are interested in and create an activities club for them.
          - Ask the CLO for help in advertising the activity in the community.
          - Go with your child to his/her school and ask about starting a program.
          - If your child wants to volunteer after school, check the community service organizations to see where help is needed.
          - Start small and build up. 

##### ****Home Study

**1. What are some factors that I should think about while considering home study in the Foreign Service?**
        - Families should discuss which educational options are available at post and why a home study program may be a better fit. If you are looking at a post without schools, have this discussion before bidding. After researching the educational options at post, you may find that a partial supplemental education program for your child may be all that is needed. Also, remember that the overseas experience may include unusual, rich opportunities for out-of-classroom learning.

**2. How do I find out if home study is legal in my host country?**
        - Before choosing the home study option, families living abroad should check the legality of home study in their host country. The Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) tracks the status on home study worldwide.  Visit HSLDA International for more information . However, this list may not be up to date, therefore we recommend that families reach out to post management and the CLO Coordinator at post to inquire whether or not home study is legal in the host country.

**3. What do I do if I learn that home study is not legal in my host country?**
        - All mission members have a duty to respect local host country laws.

**4. Do I need to file an affidavit in the state where I am following the home study standards?**
        - No, if you choose to home study overseas, there is no requirement to file an affidavit with the state in which you are following the standards.

**5. How do I begin looking for a home study program?**
        - The Global Community Liaison Office’s  Virtual Learning Resources  and  Home Study Resources and Curricula  webpages provide a variety of resources used by Foreign Service families. For questions, please write to  **GCLOAskEducation@state.gov** .

**6. How should I evaluate home study private instruction programs?**
        - A successful home study program should fulfill the qualifications established by the selected location (state of residence or other relevant state). To evaluate home study programs for parental preference and ease of delivery, ask yourself the following questions:           - Will successful completion of this program allow your student to reintegrate into the U.S. public education system at grade level?
          - Will your student progress and learn at a rate comparable to his/her stateside peers?
          - Does the program of choice comply with the home study requirements of the selected location?
          - What does the curriculum cover?
          - What textbooks are provided?
          - How are the lesson plans set up?
          - How do other programs compare?
          - Is assistance available for the teacher?
          - How is your student’s progress assessed?
          - Are records kept for your student?
          - What are the suggested school supplies and does the program provide any of them?
          - Are online discussion sessions available?
          - Will time differences affect the online resources and lessons?
          - Will the program allow your student to easily transition into a traditional school? 

**7. What is the best curriculum/program and what are the best resources for you to use?**
        - There is not a “best” home study curriculum, only the curriculum that will work best for your family. As you search for the best curriculum, program, or resources, you may want to ask yourself:           - What type of learner is your child?
          - How comfortable are you in acting as the primary teacher with the teaching material?
          - Is the curriculum designed to keep your child on grade level?
          - Does the program offer academic support?
          - Does the program generate academic records to track progress? 

**8. We have been asked to verify that we are meeting state requirements. How do we do this?**
        - State home study requirements are available online. You can find home study laws, state-by-state at  homeschoolfacts.com .

**9. Are there any opportunities to discuss general home study issues with other FS families?**
        - GCLO encourages you to talk or write to other parents who have used a certain program/resource to solicit their opinions. Community Liaison Office (CLO) Coordinators may be able to connect you with homeschooling families at post. The FS home study closed Facebook group is a great place to communicate with home study families in the FS community. Search FShomeschool on Facebook and send a request to the administrators for access.

**10. Are Home study programs accredited?**
        - No. There is no formal accreditation process for home study programs.

**11. How are transcripts provided for my children?**
        - Not all home study programs provide transcripts. Suggestions on how to complete transcripts for students are available online. The  Coalition for Responsible Home Education website  is a good place to start.

**12. How do I transition my child to home study and then back to a regular school?**
        - Regardless of the reason for the change, your child may require some guidance when transitioning from a brick and mortar to a home study scenario and vice versa. Here are some ideas on how you can help ease this transition.           - Transitioning from a brick and mortar school to home study:              - Allow time to adjust.
            - Keep local friendships alive if possible.
            - Consider exploring opportunities (such as participation in extracurricular activities) that may be available at brick and mortar schools.
            - Encourage your child’s input on the schedule and curriculum.
            - Chart your child’s progress. 
          - Transitioning from home study to a brick and mortar school:              - Engage your child in after school activities and sports teams well before the school year begins.
            - Make your child aware of opposing viewpoints.
            - Encourage a school visit where your child can sit in on a class or two. 
        - Note:  If you withdraw children from a school at post and begin a home study program mid-year, you may not be eligible for the  Home Study Allowance . If you think you might want to change to a home study program at some point in your tour, it is important to do your research ahead of time. Check with your post or the Office of Allowances and plan ahead.

**13. How does my child apply to college?**
        - You must keep complete records of progress and curriculums covered and have transcripts ready to share with colleges. As with management of any student’s college application efforts, it is wise to keep track of college testing and application deadlines.
        - GCLO has a list of  College Application Frequently Asked Questions  for information specific to FS students.

**14. What other things can I do to make a successful transition to home study?**
        - Communicate with others regarding your decision. Take advantage of the opportunity to speak with other parents. Check with the Management Officer at your current or future post regarding schooling and costs and refer to  DSSR 270  to calculate the education allowances available to you if you choose a home study program.
        - Allowance information is available in Washington, DC from the Office of Allowances. Please contact this office directly at  **AllowancesO@state.gov** .

**15.****What changes were made to the DSSR 270 effective June 19, 2022 regarding Allowable and Non-Allowable expenses for the “School at Post”, “School Away from Post”, and “Home Study/Private Instruction/Virtual Schooling”?**
        - Amendments were made to 277.1b, 277.1d, 277.1g(1), 276.8c, 277.1g(5), 277.3a(2), 277.3a(3), 277.3a(4), 277.3a(5), 277.3b(1).  Please see DSSR 270 . All amendments have an asterisk (*). Please see new or revised FAQs 31a, 31b, 38, 41, 51, 54 on the  Office of Allowances FAQs webpage for Home Study/Private Instruction/Virtual Schooling  related to the June 19, 2022 DSSR amendments.  Please contact the Office of Allowances at  AllowancesO@state.gov  with any questions.

#####  Educational Allowances

**1. When is the Away-from-Post Education Allowance processed?**
        - In general, the Away-from-Post Education Allowance will be processed once you arrive at post. You are responsible for any fees due before that time, but will be reimbursed for any allowable expenses once you arrive and the SF-1190 is processed (please be sure to review 277.2 in the Education Allowances  DSSR 270 section on “School Away-from-Post” to determine what expenses are allowable/reimbursable). Travel during normal school closings is included in the Away-from-Post Education Allowance, up to the limit of the allowance.
        - Please note, as discussed in the Allowance Office FAQs, travel to and from school is included as part of the Away-from-Post Education Allowance, and the Educational Travel Allowance cannot be used in conjunction with any other Education Allowance. You can find the complete Allowances Office FAQs on their  website . Remember the Office of Allowances is the final arbiter on all allowance questions –  AllowancesO@state.gov .

**2. Where can I find the rate of Away-from-Post Education Allowance for my post?**
        - Click here to find your post  then click on the Education Allowance link.

**3. Will the Away-from-Post Education Allowance change during my tour?**
        - Families should be aware that the Away-from-Post Education Allowance changes each year and may increase or decrease during an employee’s tour.

**4. What are the regulations regarding my child starting kindergarten?**
        - Frequently Asked Questions  about what age children can start school.
        - Education Allowances DSSR 270  (Section 271 J) on Kindergarten.

**5. What changes were made to the DSSR 270 effective June 19, 2022 regarding Allowable and Non-Allowable expenses for the “School at Post”, “School Away from Post”, and “Home Study/Private Instruction/Virtual Schooling”?**
        - Amendments were made to 277.1b, 277.1d, 277.1g(1), 276.8c, 277.1g(5), 277.3a(2), 277.3a(3), 277.3a(4), 277.3a(5), 277.3b(1). Please see DSSR 270. All amendments have an asterisk (*). Please see new or revised FAQs 31a, 31b, 38, 41, 51, 54 on the Office of Allowances FAQs webpage for Home Study/Private Instruction/Virtual Schooling related to the June 19, 2022 DSSR amendments. Please contact the Office of Allowances at AllowancesO@state.gov with any questions.

**6. What is considered “beyond daily commuting distance”? The definition for “school away from post” under DSSR 271e “means an elementary or secondary school so far beyond daily commuting distance of the employee’s post as to necessitate room and board in connection with attendance.”**
        - Effective 6/19/2022 DSSR 277.2 was amended with the following: “NOTE: The following “school away from post” expenses may also be claimed when the transportation time to and from school and residence is 45 minutes or longer each direction each day. This does not affect/augment the education allowance rate the employee is eligible for.”

**7. What changes were made to the DSSR 270 effective November 20, 2022 regarding Special Needs Education Allowance for SNEA-School at Post, SNEA-School Away from Post, and SNEA-Home Study/Private Instruction/Virtual Schooling?**
        - The amendments to the DSSR section on SNEA address the Office of Inspector General’s (OIG) recommendations on the methodology for determining the rates and the financial management controls of the allowance. Amendments were made to 274.12c, 276.8, and 276.81.  Please see DSSR 270 ; all amendments have an asterisk (*). Updates to the FAQs and the expansion of FAQ #9 related to the November 20, 2022 DSSR amendments are on the  Office of Allowances Education FAQs webpage . Contact the Office of Allowances at  AllowancesO@state.gov  with any questions.

##### **Boarding Schools**

**1. Does your office have any recommendations for boarding schools?**
        - GCLO does not maintain a list of recommended boarding schools. However, we are able to share resources and information with you. Please keep in mind, you will be the most familiar with your child’s needs. You may visit us in the Global Community Liaison Office where we have a collection of resources from boarding schools. You may also visit our  boarding school website . Here you will see what steps are necessary in order to pursue boarding school admission for your child. You will also find links to the different allowance issues that relate to boarding school.

**2. Our family is currently serving at an embassy overseas and our child is attending boarding school in a neighboring country. Would they have access to the embassy’s medical unit in that country?**
        - No, your child is still under Chief of Mission (COM) authority at the post of your current assignment and is considered an ICASS participant in the health unit at the Mission where the employee is assigned. They are not eligible to receive routine medical services at a health unit where your family is not enrolled as an ICASS participant.

**3. If my child needs to be medevaced from their boarding school, would the embassy’s medical unit in the country where they are attending boarding school be involved in their evacuation?**
        - Although your child may be eligible for payment of hospitalizations and medical evacuations under the broader Department of State Medical Program, this will be managed by the Employee’s post of assignment Health Unit or the Office of Foreign Programs within the Bureau of Medical Services.

#####  Other General Information

**1. Where can I find resources for teaching overseas?**
        - Please refer to our website regarding  teaching overseas , obtaining teacher certification, and programs offered.

**2. Where can I find resources on summer camps in the Washington D.C. area?**
        - Please refer to our website which provides numerous resources for  summer camps.  See these additional resources for more summer camp programs in the D.C. area.           - Washington Parent search for summer camps
          - The Washingtonian nature camps for kids
          - The Family Phone Book search for summer camps. 

**3. How can I get in touch with the CLO at post?**
        - Contact the CLO at post by email using the format CLOnameofpost@state.gov, e.g. clozagreb@state.gov.

**4. Where can I find information on getting my GED?**
        - GCLO’s  Adult Education Programs webpage  has a lot of great information on GEDs .

**5. How can a family member enroll in Foreign Service Institute (FSI) courses?**
        - FSI provides language, functional, and distance learning training to family members. Family members can enroll in both language and functional training courses on a space available basis only. For more information regarding training options for family members, please visit GCLO’s  Training Resources for Family Members  webpage or contact  GCLOAskTraining@state.gov .

**6. Where can I find information on scholarships and youth awards in the foreign affairs community?**
        - Information and application guidelines on scholarships and youth awards offered by the American Foreign Service Association (AFSA), the Associates of the American Foreign Service Worldwide (AAFSW), and the Foreign Service Youth Foundation (FSYF) can be found on GCLO’s  Scholarships and Youth Awards  webpage.

7.  **Where can I find information on scholarships and education discounts for adult family members and partners in the foreign affairs community?**
        - Information on scholarships and education discounts for  adult  family members and partners of  f ederal  e mployees can be found on GCLO’s  Adult Education webpage.

**8.  Are employed family members eligible for the Student Loan Repayment Program (SLRP) or the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)?**
        - For information about the SLRP or PSLF, please visit  GCLO’s Employment webpage .

##### ****Overseas Schools

**1.Can I be reimbursed for testing fees to take standardized tests similar to those offered in the U.S., such as AP and/or IB exams and pre-SATs?**
        - According to the  Office of Allowances Education Allowances FAQs , the DSSR 277.1d and 277.2a allow reimbursement for fees for tests required by the school within the maximum “at post” or “away from post” education allowance. DSSR 271i allows for reimbursement in addition to the education allowance maximum for Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) test fees, as well as the pre-SAT as it is normally provided free of charge in U.S. public schools.

**2. Where can I find information on overseas schools?**
        - Office of Overseas Schools  lists State Department assisted and unassisted schools.
        - Contact your  Regional Education Officers (REOs)  at the Office of Overseas Schools for questions about schools at post.
        - If you have been assigned to an overseas post, contact the Community Liaison Office Coordinator (CLO) at the post by email using the CLO mailbox format: CLOnameofpost@state.gov, e.g., clozagreb@state.gov.

**3. What are my options at post if the schools are deemed ‘inadequate’ or lack accreditation?**
        - An “inadequate” rating does not always mean that a school is academically inferior. In fact, there are some fine schools that are deemed “inadequate” because of differences in academic calendar year, religious affiliation, or other factors unrelated to quality of instruction. If you have any questions about the academic programs at a post, please contact the Regional Education Officers (REOs) in the Office of Overseas Schools –  **OverseasSchools@state.gov** .
        - If the schools at post are not adequate according to your family’s standards, other options to consider are homeschooling or a boarding school. Please refer to our  virtual learning ,  homeschooling , and  boarding school  websites to begin your research.

**4. I’m a parent and I’ve run into an issue with the administration at our school. With whom can I consult about the approach I should take?**
        - The Office of Overseas Schools  can provide assistance with a matter like this. You can contact them via email:  **OverseasSchools@state.gov** .
        - Please also see the Regional Education Officer (REO) link in question #1.

**5. Aren’t the overseas schools required to admit my child into their school?**
        - No. All of these schools are independent/private institutions and have their own admissions procedures and criteria. Even though many of our State Department families may utilize a particular school, the school is not obligated to admit all the children posted at the embassy/consulate. It is very important to research available spaces at the school where you would like to enroll your child before moving to your new post. Although schools that are provided grant assistance by the  Office of Overseas Schools  are expected to give priority to children of U.S. government families, each child must meet admission requirements and there must be space available for him/her.

##### ****Special Needs

**1. What assistance can I receive at post for my child who has special needs?**
        - Contact Child and Family Program (CFP) in the Office of Medical Services ( MEDCFP@state.gov ) and share your child’s diagnostic testing results with them. If you haven’t already pursued diagnostic testing, contact CFP and ask for their guidance on what to do. Please visit our website on  Special Needs and the Foreign Service Child  for more information. The Regional Education Officers, with the  Office of Overseas Schools , are also an excellent resource on schools that are available at post.

**2. What assistance can I receive in the Washington area for my child who has special needs?**
        - Please consider reaching out to the public school district’s special needs programs. If you have current educational testing you should share it with the school administrators. The local school systems will do their own assessments on students as well. There are Parent Resource Centers in some of the D.C. area counties. Please note that the Special Needs Education Allowance available overseas is not available while on a domestic assignment.

**3. Special needs listings by State and County:**
        - Virginia            - Alexandria City Public School’s Office of Special Education
          - Arlington County’s Parent Resource Center, Arlington Public School’s Office of Special Education
          - Fairfax County’s Parent Resource Center, Fairfax County Special Education Resources
          - Falls Church City’s Special Education
          - Fauquier County’s Parent Resource Center, Fauquier County Public School’s Office of Special Education
          - Loudoun County’s Parent Resource Center, Loudoun County Public School’s Office of Special Education
          - Prince William County Public Schools’ Office of Special Education
          - Stafford County’s Parent Resource Center, Stafford County’s Special Education Programs 
        - District of Columbia            - DC Office of Special Education 
        - Maryland            - Anne Arundel County Public School’s Special Education, Anne Arundel County’s Special Education Resources
          - Howard County Public School’s Special Education Program, Howard County Public School’s Special Education Parental Involvement
          - Montgomery County’s Parent Resource Center, Montgomery County Public Schools
          - Prince George County Public School’s Department of Special Education, Prince George County Public School’s Parent Center 
        - You may also find some of the resources from our  special needs page  helpful.

**4. How often do I need to reapply for my child’s SNEA?**
        - A family would reapply for SNEA for each school year, if there are educationally required services which are at cost above the regular school tuition. SNEA authorization cables are annual based on school year, and are amended as needed if there are changes to educationally required services and supports. Please see  Bureau of Medical Services, Child and Family Program’s webpage on Special Needs Education Allowance . SNEA applications open each year on July 1. Contact  MEDCFP@state.gov  with additional questions.

**5. What changes were made to 3 FAM 3280 Special Needs Education Allowance, effective November 9, 2022?**
        - Changes/updates to  3 FAM 3280  provide transparency of the SNEA application process to include clear guidance of eligibility and documentation requirements, educational services eligible for SNEA funding, and to define the Medical Review Panel (MRP) SNEA appeals process timeline and procedure. Within the Department of State, the authorizing official for SNEA is the Bureau of Medical Services, Office of Overseas Mental Health, Child and Family Programs (MED/MH/CFP). Please contact MED/MH/CFP at  MEDCFP@state.gov  with any questions.

##### Supplemental Instruction

**1. Where can I find information on the Supplemental Education Allowance?**
        - Below are links to several informative websites regarding the Supplemental Education Allowance:           - FAQs on Supplementary Instruction Allowance
          - Education Allowances DSSR – Supplementary Instruction 276.9 
          - The Regional Education Officers, with the  Office of Overseas Schools , are also an excellent resource. 

**2. My child is Gifted and Talented (GT). Are there any State Department resources we can use?**
        - You can use Supplementary Instruction Allowance (SIA) funds for GT instruction if the base school does not offer GT instruction provided that you meet the conditions stated in the  DSSR 276.9e .
        - Please visit the Office of Allowances  FAQ on Supplemental Instruction  for information on the allowance.
        - The Regional Education Officers (REOs), with the  Office of Overseas Schools (OS) , are also an excellent resource. OS provides a Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT) to assess for GT and in support of  DSSR 276.0 . Be aware that the REO may request a conversation with you to describe the test protocol and to ensure it’s an appropriate test for the child. OS will provide the CogAT test if you request it and if your post agrees to provide a space and proctor within the post. It’s essential for parents to consult  DSSR 276.9e  to understand expectations surrounding use of the SIA. The CogAT assessment and the following test results interpretation administration process can take up to three months or longer. OS provides the CogAT testing protocol for families in the Foreign Service community who are overseas. Gifted and talented educational programming is not provided by OS. There is no cost for the test. OS ships the test via FedEx to the post where the test must be proctored and administered, and parents pay the FedEx fees to send the test back to OS. Please reach out to the Office of Overseas Schools with questions on GT testing at  OverseasSchools@state.gov .

**3. Can I use funds for Supplementary Instruction (DSSR 274.12a and 276.9) to help offset COVID-19 learning challenges?**
        - Yes, you can use the funds for Supplementary Instruction to help offset COVID-19 learning challenges in combination with the At-Post Education Allowance, provided the use meets the criteria and intent of DSSR 276.9 (where applicable a-e).  Following the Global AD due to COVID-19, under DSSR 276.9 (d) all at-post students qualify, with a written recommendation from the school (such as the teacher, school counselor, or principal) on school letterhead, to use Supplementary Instruction for a private instructor hired in order to supplement virtual “at-post school” learning.  Supplementary Instruction per DSSR 274.12a (currently up to $4100 per school year) may be authorized in addition to the DSSR 920 or DSSR 274.12c ‘at-post’ education allowance maximum for the purpose of lessening the burden families are facing when dependent children are enrolled in at-post schools that have moved to temporary virtual or hybrid education environments. Funds may be used to pay for a child to receive additional instruction to enhance at-post hybrid learning and enable a child to successfully complete an academic course in order to progress to the next level in the sequence of courses.  See DSSR 276.9 for specific uses of the allowance. For additional details, please see 21 STATE 119332 or email  AllowancesO@state.gov .

**4. Can I use the Supplementary Instruction Allowance during the break between school years?**
        - Yes. Effective 6/19/2022 DSSR 274.12a was amended to allow Supplementary Instruction at the foreign post of assignment during the break between school years: “When necessary, as a form of prevention, intervention, or remediation due to deficiencies in academic performance and documented by the school at post, Supplementary Instruction may be reimbursed for only a required course or required courses during the break between school years for DSSR 276.9b, c, and d.” The total amount allowed for Supplementary Instruction during the school year and during the break between school years cannot exceed the amount in DSSR 274.12a. Example: if Supplementary Instruction is $4100 and $3500 was used during the school year $600 would be the maximum allowed between school years. For reference see FAQs on Supplementary Instruction Allowance and Education Allowances DSSR.

**5. Is reimbursement for Supplementary Instruction allowed while on home leave, renewal agreement travel or R&R?**
        - Reimbursement for Supplementary Instruction is not allowed while on home leave, renewal agreement travel or R&R. See FAQ 18b on Allowances FAQs webpage when evacuated from a post. Supplementary Instruction is allowed at the foreign post of assignment during the regular school year to supplement the education received at the school at post for reasons DSSR 276.9a. through e. Effective 6/19/2022 DSSR 274.12a was amended to allow Supplementary Instruction at the foreign post of assignment during the break between school years: “When necessary, as a form of prevention, intervention, or remediation due to deficiencies in academic performance and documented by the school at post, Supplementary Instruction may be reimbursed for only a required course or required courses during the break between school years for DSSR 276.9b, c, and d.” The total amount allowed for Supplementary Instruction during the school year and during the break between school years cannot exceed the amount in DSSR 274.12a. Example: If Supplementary Instruction is $4100 and $3500 was used during the school year, $600 would be the maximum allowed between school years.

**6. Is reimbursement for Supplementary Instruction allowed while evacuated from a post?**
        - If a child was approved for and using Supplementary Instruction at the foreign post prior to evacuation it may continue and be reimbursed only if with the same instructor/instruction started at the foreign post prior to evacuation and only through the end of the current school year unless the provision at DSSR 274.12a pertains: “When necessary, as a form of prevention, intervention, or remediation due to deficiencies in academic performance and documented by the school at post, Supplementary Instruction may be reimbursed for only a required course or required courses during the break between school years for DSSR 276.9b, c, and d.” The total amount allowed for Supplementary Instruction during the school year and during the break between school years cannot exceed the amount in DSSR 274.12a. Example: if Supplementary Instruction is $4100 and $3500 was used during the school year $600 would be the maximum allowed between school years.

**7.  Do students on Authorized/Ordered Departure (AD/OD) have access to Supplementary Instruction (DSSR 274.12a and DSSR 276.9) to assist with online instruction?**
        - Supplementary Instruction to assist in online instruction may be allowed in addition to the “at post” education allowance for only the reason(s) under DSSR 276.9a through e. Reimbursement for Supplementary Instruction is allowed at the safe haven only if already approved at the foreign post of assignment prior to evacuation and only for the person providing the Supplementary Instruction at the foreign post of assignment prior to evacuation. See FAQ 16 on Allowances FAQs webpage for further detail.

##### Support Resources

**1. What Department of State resources are available to foreign service families for parenting support?**
        - ECS provides two monthly support groups  for parents with children ages 4-11 and adolescents ages 12-16.  Note:  The following two Parent Support Groups are cancelled for June, July and August. Please contact ECS with any questions:  MEDECS@state.gov  or +1-202-634-4874.             - Parent Support Group for Children Ages 4-11  (Meets on the 2 nd  Wednesday of each month from 12:00-1:00pm EST)
          -  Parent Support Group for Adolescents Ages 12-16  (Meets on the 4 th  Wednesday of each month from 12:00-1:00pm EST). 

Please reach out to ECS at the Department of State for additional details: MEDECS@state.gov or +1-202-634-4874.

**2. Are there youth mental health resources for foreign service children and adolescents?**
        - The Foreign Service Youth Foundation  has an extensive list of  youth mental health resources and providers  for  both overseas and in the U.S.

##### Transition to Washington

**1. What are the public school options in the Washington, D.C. area?**
        - There are numerous resources on  GCLO’s Transitioning from School to School webpage  that can guide you in choosing the best school for your children.           - Check out feedback sites like  greatschools.org . The parent ratings and comments can be very helpful.
          - Also  Wiser DC  is a good resource for finding educational consultants in the Washington area.
          - You may also use the FS Parents Yahoo Group to request feedback or opinions from other FS parents. 
        - Please note: some of these sites are feedback-oriented and not managed or monitored by the State Department or the Global Community Liaison Office.

**2. Where can I find information about schools in Virginia?**
        - Please visit our website where you will find links and resources  for the local Virginia public schools most frequently utilized by Department of State families. Please contact the district, county, or school for more specific information.           - The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE)  provides excellent information on Virginia schools. VDOE assembles a ‘report card’ for each Virginia school including statistics and information on the student environment of the school. Please visit their website to learn more about some of the area schools you are interested in.
          - Please visit the county’s public school registration website to be sure you have all of the necessary documents to register your son/daughter.
          - Also check out feedback sites like  GreatSchools.org . The parent ratings and comments can be very helpful. 
        - Please note: there is no Education Allowance for Foreign Service dependents when the employee is assigned to the U.S. When registering your child in public school you must show proof of residence in the school district. Your son/daughter must be physically present to complete the registration process.
        - Please note: some of the above websites are feedback oriented and not managed or monitored by the State Department or the Global Community Liaison Office.

**3. What resources would you recommend for Foreign Service parents?**
        - FS Parents is a group for American Foreign Service parents (or anyone under Chief of Mission Authority), who would like to connect with other FS parents around the world to discuss raising their children. Please contact:  FSparentsubscribe@yahoogroups.com.            -  AAFSW hosts the popular “Livelines” listserve for the Foreign Service. When you post your question or concern on whatever issue you may have (neighborhoods, schools, etc.) you will get lots of advice from over 1,200 Foreign Service employees and families. 
        - Livelines is available to AAFSW members only.  For more information go to  https://www.aafsw.org/join/  or email  office@aafsw.org .

**4. What resources do you have on transition?**
        - Our  **Transitioning from School to School**  webpage provides resources for transition and the mobile lifestyle.           - The  Overseas Briefing Center (OBC)  at the Foreign Service Institute (FSI) offers resources for families transitioning overseas, including post reports and personal post insights. Much of their information is available only on the intranet. Please email  **FSIOBCInfoCenter@state.gov** or call 703-302-7277 for additional information.
          - The Foreign Service Youth Foundation (FSYF)  supports children, teens and families affiliated with U.S. foreign affairs agencies. FSYF strives to help young people adapt to their changing environments and make the most of their Foreign Service experiences. Phone: 703-731-2960; E-Mail:  **fsyf@fsyf.org** 

**5. What is the “the best” school in the Washington, D.C. area?**
        - We are not able to tell you what the “best” school in the Washington, DC area is. However, we can provide you with resources to research what would be the best school for your child.           - The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE)  provides excellent information on Virginia schools. VDOE assembles a ‘report card’ for each Virginia school including statistics and information on the student environment of the school. Please visit their website to learn more about some of the area schools you are interested in.
          - Maryland Department of Education  report card
          - Washington, DC school profiles
          - FS Parents is a group for American Foreign Service parents (or anyone under Chief of Mission Authority), who would like to connect with other FS parents around the world to discuss raising their children.
          - Also check out feedback sites like  GreatSchools.org . The parent ratings and comments can be very helpful.
          - Please remember, you know your child’s needs best. While one school may be a great school for one child it might not be the best school for another child. Be sure to research the academic and social atmosphere for your child but also the extracurricular activities available. Know what your child would appreciate in his/her school and pick a school that they will love! 

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