WHEELER ARMY AIRFIELD, Hawaii — The Department of Defense Education Activity recently awarded $6 million in grants to three military-connected school campuses, announced the U.S. Army Garrison Hawaii.

“These grants make a huge difference to our schools and help DoE create improved educational opportunities,” said Col. Steve McGunegle, Commander of U.S. Army Garrison Hawaii, in a news release.

“Fostering students’ interest in project-based learning in math, computer science and general studies with a STEM focus will greatly benefit our students and community,” McGunegle said.

The three Hawaii State Department of Education complex areas serving military children and received grants are:

  • Campbell-Kapolei complex area, $2 million
  • Leilehua-Mililani-Waialua complex area, $2 million
  • Kailua-Kalaheo complex area, $1.99 million

The DoDEA grants focus on improving educational outcomes, narrowing achievement gaps and providing access to academic programs that promote continuity in districts with a high population of military-connected students, according to the release. Areas of focus are military-connected academic and support programs and world language advancement and readiness.

The DoDEA grant program has provided resources to school districts, reaching nearly one million military-connected students in 36 states. Since 2009, DoDEA has awarded over 600 grants totaling over $716 million.