The 85th Annual American Education Week (AEW) will be observed from November 12-18, 2006.  This celebration provides an opportunity to recognize the important partnerships our schools have established to improve the quality of education within the communities we serve.  This year’s theme, “Great Public Schools: A Basic Right and Our Responsibility,” highlights the importance of bringing together educators, school staff, parents, students, and communities throughout the Pacific in a unified effort to build great public schools.  AEW is celebrated by schools across the nation and supported by many educational organizations, including the National Education Association (NEA). 

Throughout its history the Department of Defense Dependents Schools has made excellence in education a top priority.  DODEA is recognized and respected as a world-class organization with a proven track record of superior results both inside and outside the classroom. In DoDDS-P/DDESS-G, many of our achievements can be directly attributed to that one individual who makes all the difference in the world to each and every student - the classroom teacher.  

The only way to do great work is to have a passion for the work you do.  As I visit our schools and meet with teachers I observe a real love for teaching and learning. Seeing classrooms and facilities that are safe and children actively engaged in the learning process - solving problems, reading, learning a new language or researching topics on the internet - gives me a sense of pride in the work we do.

           As we celebrate American Education Week, I will have the honor of meeting with Ms. Leslye A. Arsht, the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Military Community and Family Policy, Lt. General Bruce Wright , Commander United States Forces Japan, and most importantly, your principals at our annual Principals' Conference.  Their dedication and commitment to learning remains a constant reminder of the importance of our work and the service we provide to over 24,500 students across the Pacific.

           Each year, American Education Week serves as a reminder of the importance of schools within the communities we serve.  In DoDDS-Pacific/ DDESS-Guam, we celebrate the success of our students and schools every day.  I have great respect for your professionalism and the seriousness with which you take your mission.  Thank you again for your tireless contributions and unwavering dedication to ensuring that excellence is not the exception but the standard throughout the Pacific.

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