The Department of Defense Education Activity is joining the National Education Association in marking its 87th Annual American Education Week, according to a news release.

From now through Saturday, many DODEA schools will stage events and activities designed to strengthen the bonds between schools and communities.

American Education Week’s theme, "Great Public Schools: A Basic Right and Our Responsibility," is aimed at spotlighting quality education from kindergarten to college and emphasizes the teamwork necessary to make public schools an environment for all students to learn and develop academically, the release said.

Dr. Shirley A. Miles, DODEA’s director, praised teachers on the important role they play in the lives of military children.

"Much like our military service members who give of their time, energy and expertise to the country, so do our teachers," Miles said in the release. "The lessons that students learn from their teachers will help shape the lives of the children who are going to be the leaders of tomorrow and are lessons that they will remember for the rest of their lives."

American Education Week began in December 1921 as a way to combat the illiteracy and lack of physical fitness that was widespread among American youth in the aftermath of World War I, the release said.

Contact your school for activities planned for the week.

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