Military families navigate through various situations, such as PCS moves and deployments, which can impact their kids. When children have special needs, families face unique challenges and may need more support. They can find it through various programs such as the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) from the Department of Defense (DoD), Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), and 504 Plans. To get the appropriate assistance, families may need to advocate for their children.

Partners in PROMISE (PIP) is an organization focused on protecting the rights of military children in the special education and disability communities. Sarah Bumgardner, AAFMAA Director of Partnerships and Member Engagement, spoke with Michelle Norman, PIP Executive Director and Founder about the challenges associated with having a military child with special needs, and the support available from the DoD’s EFMP program. Norman brings experience as a Navy spouse of 25 years. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Petroleum Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin prior to marrying her husband, a Naval aviator.

To learn more about Partners in PROMISE and its work to advocate for military children in special education, visit thepromiseact.org and view the discussion below.