WHEREAS, thousands of brave Americans demonstrate their courage and commitment to freedom by serving in the Armed Forces of the United States both on Active Duty and in the National Guard and Reserves; and
WHEREAS, State legislation was enacted in August 2015, that requires Delaware public schools have parents or guardians identify if their student is military-connected. For the 2022-2023 school year, the self-report by parents and guardians of military-connected public education school students was just over 2,550. This number does not include military-connected students in Delaware private schools and homeschools; and
WHEREAS, Delaware is committed to being an active participant in the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children (MIC3) which facilitates military children’s transition in school systems across state lines and whose MIC3 State Council included the late Colonel Dr. Ronald G. Sarg (USAF, ret.) and this month we also honor his commitment to military children; and
WHEREAS, Delaware is committed to encouraging our schools to earn the designation of a Delaware Purple Star School which is awarded to military-friendly schools that have demonstrated a major commitment to serving military connected families and students; and
WHEREAS, Delaware has put in place several legislative initiatives to support military families and their children including processes for advanced enrollment for families under military orders to relocate or transfer to a military installation within the State, and in-state higher education tuition support; and
WHEREAS, the youth of our service members continue to make significant contributions to family, schools, communities, the nation, and our state, despite prolonged and repeated absences of one or both parents or family members; and
WHEREAS, these children are a source of pride and honor to us all, and it is only fitting that we take the time to recognize their contributions, celebrate their spirit, and let our members of the armed forces know that while they are taking care of us, we are helping to care for their children; and
WHEREAS, the recognition of April as the "Month of the Military Child” allows us to pay tribute to military children for their commitment, patience, and courage and show our unconditional support of our troops and their family members.
NOW, THEREFORE:
BE IT RESOLVED by the Senate of the 152nd General Assembly, the House of Representatives concurring therein, that April 2023 is hereby set aside as the “2023 Month of the Military Child” in the State of Delaware and urge all citizens, businesses, educators, and government leaders to mark this month with appropriate observance to honor, support, and thank our military children.
