Students from military families are often misunderstood in US public schools—experts explain what schools can do

Over 1.4 million children in the United States have a parent or caregiver serving in the U.S. military, according to 2024 data. These military-connected students, who make up more than 90% of public school attendees, face unique academic and emotional needs. They are often required to transition between schools frequently due to parental deployments and frequent relocations.

Retired U.S. Army lieutenant colonel and military behavioral health expert explains that educators may struggle to understand military children, as only 6% of Americans have served in the military. To better support these students, schools can identify military-connected students during enrollment and provide educators with training about military life.

Military life offers unique opportunities for children, such as living in multiple cities and learning new languages. However, it also brings challenges, including frequent moves, parental absences, and the fear of injury or death. These factors can lead to social withdrawal, angry outbursts, mental health issues, and academic struggles.

Children aged 5 and younger may act out behaviorally due to limited language skills and changes in routines. Elementary school students might exhibit tantrums, clinginess, or decreased talkativeness. Middle school and preteen students, aged 8 to 13, may respond to changes with angry outbursts, irritability, anxiety, and social withdrawal. They may also experience fluctuating grades, peer conflicts, and disciplinary problems.

Boys and girls may express stress differently, with boys showing more anger and aggression, while girls may demonstrate sadness, depression, and self-harm. Military adolescents and high school students, typically 14 to 18, face heightened risks for anxiety, depression, and suicide, particularly during parental deployments. They may experience mood changes, anger, and social withdrawal, and may disengage from school activities or perform poorly in school. Despite these challenges, many military adolescents are high achievers.