Military Families in Duval County. Supporting Military Students and Parents.

Military Families: Serving Those Who Serve Our Country

Between Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Naval Station Mayport, and Kings Bay, it's no surprise Jacksonville is home to thousands of military families. Our district understands the unique needs of our service members and children. Whether they're moving from another city, state, or country, we provide the necessary support to ensure military students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Families transitioning to Duval County Public Schools will work with a Military Transition Team within our Office of School Choice. This team serves as the link between base commanders, military families, and our schools. They'll also facilitate student enrollment and provide the support and guidance needed for a smooth transition.  

We're here for military families in Duval County. Contact our Military Transition Team today to begin your student's journey with Duval County Public Schools.

Enrolling Military Students in Duval County

We will guide you through enrollment

Our Military Transition Team begins working with military families months before they move to Jacksonville. We assist families with priority enrollment, applications, school records, transcripts, creating Linked Parent Accounts, and placing students in the right grade level and courses. We will also facilitate communications between families, schools, and district departments. 

Remember - We're a Choice District

Once you are enrolled in Duval County Public Schools, you will also have the option of participating in our choice application process. This is where families can apply to attend a magnet school or another school outside their attendance zone. The application window is Jan. 1 through the last day of February. The Military Transition Team can answer specific questions about enrollment options. 

Reading to students

Military families rock sign

Armed forces flags

Our Academic Services

We offer a variety of academic programs and experiences to meet the unique learning needs and interests of our students. From the Arts to Pre-Kindergarten, we invite you to read more about our offerings below.

Purple Star Schools & Special Events

Almacani Elementary School

The State of Florida has recognized our efforts to support military families in Duval County by naming several of our schools Purple Star Schools of Distinction. To earn this designation, schools must demonstrate a commitment to meeting the needs of military students by providing resources and support such as academic planning and designated points of contact for transitioning military families. This award is valid for three years. 

Military-Themed Events and Ceremonies

Many of our high military population schools regularly hold special services, events, and celebrations to honor the sacrifices of our military students and families. Events vary from school to school but can include Yellow Ribbon ceremonies, White Table ceremonies, flag-raising events, Veterans Day ceremonies, celebrating Month of the Military Child, and holding Purple-Up Day events.

Counseling for Military Students

Military and Family Life Counselors

Schools with higher military student populations have a dedicated Military and Family Life Counselor (MFLC) on campus. MFLCs are provided through a partnership with the Department of the Navy. Their services come at no cost to families and can include peer support groups, group counseling, and one-on-one counseling for topics such as changes at home, self-esteem issues, problem-solving, and behavioral issues. 

The following schools have MFLCs on site:

  • Elementary: Anchor Academy, Alimicani, Chets Creek, Chimney Lakes, Enterprise, Jacksonville Beach, John Stockton, Kernan Trail, Mayport, New Berlin, Neptune Beach, Oceanway, Sabal Palm, San Mateo, Sheffield, Venetia, and Waterleaf.

  • Middle: James Weldon Johnson, Landmark, Landon, Mayport, Oceanway, and Springfield.

  • High: First Coast, Duncan U. Fletcher, and Sandalwood.

Districtwide Counseling Services

School Counseling is available to all Duval County Public Schools students in elementary, middle, and high school. Our counselors are trained to provide students with support and resources for various social and emotional needs.

All students also have access to free mental health therapy through Hazel Health. Parents and guardians must first sign a Consent for Care form before accessing services. Learn more by visiting Duval County Public Schools and Hazel Health.

Helpful Links for Military Families in Duval County

Naval Station Mayport School Liaison
Naval Station Mayport School Liaison Officer Sharon Kasica serves as a primary link between schools, commanders, and military parents on K-12 educational issues.

NAS Jacksonville School Liaison Officer
NAS Jacksonville School Liaison Officer Terri Wanamaker serves as a primary link between schools, commanders, and military parents on K-12 educational issues.

Naval Station Mayport

Naval Air Station Jacksonville

Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay

Florida Department of Education Military Family Resources

Florida State and Federal Resources for Military Families and Veterans