This holiday season, families all over the world will join together with friends and neighbors to rekindle old friendships, honor traditions and renew hope for a new year.  During this special time of the year, I want to pass along a holiday greeting to our dedicated employees in Japan, Okinawa, South Korea, and Guam, and wish you all the very best for the New Year.

This school year has been amazing and inspirational. We implemented new programs and continued to place emphasis on educational initiatives in literacy, science, and math. All of these programs and efforts further our mission of supporting the children and families of our armed forces who defend the freedoms and liberties we cherish as Americans.

As educators, administrators, and support staff we serve as role models and truly make a difference in the lives of our students and the communities we serve. I am humbled by your dedication and commitment to making our schools the very best for our 26,000 students.

As you make plans for your holiday gatherings and celebrations, please remember the family members of those who are deployed, as well as single soldiers and other members of our communities who are away from their own families.  If possible, please extend a special invitation to them to join you and your family in celebrating this holiday season.

As I have said on numerous occasions, we are all part of a great team.  Thank you all for your unwavering commitment to quality education. 

Many of you will be traveling this holiday season; please travel safely. As you prepare your travel schedule, please leave a concise, detailed itinerary and contact telephone numbers with your administrator. If you are traveling with a specific tour group, please indicate the company name and departure time, airline, and hotel information.

Best wishes for a safe and joyous holiday season.

Nancy C. Bresell
Director, DoDDS-Pacific/DDESS-Guam