What is the DoDEA Education System?

DoDEA (Department of Defense Education Activity) is a U.S. school system managed by the U.S. Department of Defense. Its mission is to provide quality education to children of American military families stationed around the world, including in Europe and Brussels.

This unique network includes over 150 schools across 10 countries and follows a standardized U.S. curriculum, equivalent to that of public schools in the United States. DoDEA schools follow American academic standards while integrating an international and multicultural environment.

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Main Stages of the DoDEA Program

DoDEA – Elementary School – Kindergarten to Grade 5 (ages 5 to 10)

Teaching begins in Kindergarten (age 5), followed by Grades 1 to 5.

The curriculum covers core subjects:

  • English Language Arts
  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • Social Studies (Geography, History)
  • Visual Arts, Music, Physical Education

The teaching approach is student-centered, with continuous assessment, digital tools, and attention to cultural and linguistic diversity.

DoDEA – Middle School – Grades 6 to 8 (ages 11 to 13)

This intermediate stage prepares students for abstract and critical thinking.

The curriculum expands to include:

  • Second foreign language (sometimes optional)
  • Technology and Computer Science
  • Health and Life Sciences
  • Beginning of academic and personal guidance

The focus is on:

  • Personal development
  • Collaboration
  • Individual responsibility

DoDEA – High School – Grades 9 to 12 (ages 14 to 18)

High school follows the traditional U.S. model. Students choose a personalized path based on interests, with mandatory and elective courses.

They may:

  • Take Advanced Placement (AP) courses
  • Join projects, clubs, sports, and extracurricular activities

At the end of Grade 12, students earn a High School Diploma, recognized in the U.S. and accepted by international universities.

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Why choose a DoDEA school?
  • High-quality American education, aligned with the U.S. system
  • Well-structured programs adapted to internationally mobile families
  • Teachers trained to U.S. Department of Education standards
  • Multicultural, safe, and supportive environment
  • Recognized diplomas for U.S. and international university access