Technology is priority in DoDDS Pacific. Four technology conferences have been scheduled in DoDDS Pacific in support of professional development during school year 2000-2001. Conferences have focused on keeping technology experts up to date on systems hardware, software, and peripherals, while educators and administrators have concentrated on infusing technology across the curriculum. Approximately 2,000 new Pentium-class desktop systems and 200 network printers were installed in DoDDS Pacific schools in SY 99–00. The DoDEA students to instructional computer target ratio is 2:1. Instructional computers are those available in media centers, classrooms and labs. Currently, the national average is 6:1, the DoDEA ratio is 4.8:1, and the DoDDS Pacific ratio is 3.1:1.

Far East Activities Council looks at student eligibility for Far East events. At the fall meeting, the Far East Activities Council (FEAC) reviewed DoDEA regulation and guidance to clarify the requirement for home schooled students to participate in extra-curricular and interscholastic activities. The policy memorandum and existing regulations for dependent participation and eligibility requires that a student be enrolled in at least one-half of the periods offered. The FEAC recommended to the Deputy Director that all DoDDS Pacific secondary schools enforce the existing policy. The council is comprised of teachers, sponsors, administrators, superintendents, athletic directors, and members of the Deputy Director's Office.

DoDDS Pacific Area Advisory Council discusses education programs. Members of the DoDDS Pacific Area Advisory Council met January 10-11, 2001; they discussed issues and concerns related to dependents' education in the Pacific. Topics of high interest included summer school programs, service learning expectations, special education, eligibility practices, counseling and guidance staffing, and the role of the schools' officer. The council is comprised of military command and parent representatives, and offers advisement, and makes recommendations to the DoDDS Pacific Deputy Director.

Assistive devices help students with disabilities maximize learning potential. The DoD Computer/Electronic Accommodations Program (CAP) provides accommodations that make computer and telecommunication systems accessible to individuals with disabilities. Through this program DoDDS Pacific has acquired a variety of assistive devices including a printer that transfers regular type into embossed braille symbols and a computer system that scans documents and produces verbal output. Coupled with education support services from education specialists, these devices enhance the services being provided to DoD Pacific students with hearing, dexterity, and cognitive impairments.

Deputy Director accompanies DoDEA Director on Pacific Command visit. Dr. Nancy Bresell accompanied DoDEA Director, Dr. Joseph Tafoya, on his visit to the Pacific Command January 23-26, 2001. The introductory visit allowed the DoDEA Director to meet with the Pacific Commander in Chief and component commands, discuss his goals and objectives for DoDEA, ensure continuity in making his transition, and sustain DoDEA's strong partnership with the military.

Pacificwide Principals' Conference scheduled for January. The conference, "Developing Conditions for Powerful Learning," is scheduled for January 29-February 02, 2001, and will include addresses from LtGen Paul V. Hester, Commander, 5^th AF/USFJ and DoDEA Director, Dr. Joseph Tafoya. Topics will cover teaching and learning and the role of superintendents and principals in supporting learning and achievement for all students.

American Overseas Schools Historical Society (AOSHS) announces events. Saturday, July 21, 2001, marks the site dedication day for the American Overseas Schools Historical Park on the bank of the Arkansas River in Wichita, Kansas. This dedication is planned during the Homecoming 2001celebration; all Overseas Schools and Brats Reunion, July 10-22, in Wichita. In conjunction with this event the DoDDS XIII reunion is planned from July 20-23 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel. The AOSHS website address is http://aoshs.wichita.edu. Historical items and memorabilia may be sent to: The American Overseas Schools Archives (AOSA) at 539 South Water Street, Wichita, KS 67202.

Taegu and Atsugi students honored in pupil transportation poster contest. International winners of the 2000 National School Bus Safety Week Committee Poster Contest were announced at the National Association for Pupil Transportation's (NAPT's) 26^th Annual conference and Trade Show in New York. DoDDS winners were two students from Taegu Elementary / High School, Korea, and one from Shirley Lanham Elementary School, Japan. Each received a $50 bond and was honored in School Bus Fleet magazine.

Camp Zama cadet honored by JROTC and academy appointment. A Zama High School senior was recently accepted for admission to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. The student was in the presence of fellow JROTC members when his father formally presented him with his acceptance letter.