Student Transition Program
At DoDEA Pacific, military-connected children are at the heart of all we do. We recognize our military children move three times more often than their civilian peers, with many students attending six to nine different schools during their K-12 years. We also know frequent moves may cause stress and anxiety, adversely impacting students’ academic, social and emotional well-being.
DoDEA Pacific’s Student Transition Program is designed to assist newly arriving elementary, middle and high school students with finding community within their new school.
Each Student Transition Program is served by a Program Coordinator and Student Ambassadors and provides:
- A lunch buddy who picks them up from class, eats lunch with them and introduces them to other students.
- A personalized school tour from a Student Ambassador, who can answer questions about classes and programs from a student perspective
- A college and career planning tool for middle/high school students to explore interests
- Information about after school activities, clubs, and social events.Â
- Resources to assist with social-emotional wellnessÂ
A student ambassador is assigned to each new student. This ensures that they have a dedicated peer who can guide them through their first days, helping them feel comfortable and welcome in the school environment. It’s so important to foster a sense of belonging, especially for students who are adjusting to a new school. The student ambassador can be there to answer questions, show them around, introduce them to others, and generally make the transition smoother.
This role goes beyond just academic support—it’s about emotional support as well. Having a friendly, approachable peer to rely on can make all the difference in reducing the anxiety or isolation new students might feel.
Session One:Â A personal tour from a friendly Student Ambassador immediately helps the new student feel welcomed and less overwhelmed by their new surroundings. The ambassador shares helpful information and tips which is great because it sets the new student up with practical knowledge, they can use to navigate the school day and beyond.
With the student ambassador taking the lead, it becomes more than just showing where the classrooms are—it’s about building a relationship and creating a connection right from the start. The new student likely feels more comfortable asking questions, and the ambassador becomes a trusted peer they can turn to if needed.
Session Two: Welcome to Lester Donut Party! New students receive an invitation to attend our Donut Party where they will meet other new students. This allows for students to make connections with new Lester students. The administration and counselors attend the donut parties as well to make sure our students get to know all of the adults who are here to support them.
Â
Session Three: New students are paired with a National Junior Honor Society student during seminar to organize their binders and go over expectations. This session allows the new student to feel more prepared and confident in their school routine. The NJHS student can offer valuable tips on study habits, time management, and school culture, helping the new student understand what’s expected of them and how to excel. It’s also a great way to foster a sense of belonging and create meaningful connections right from the start.
Â
Session Four: Students create a personal 6-year plan with their counselor. This is a great way for them to take ownership of their future while also getting expert guidance along the way. They can explore the many programs the high school has to offer and how these fit into their college and career goals after high school.
Students paint a rock for our legacy rock garden before moving on to their next duty station. This is such a meaningful way to leave a small part of their legacy here at Lester. Our student ambassadors are involved in supporting this activity—it’s a wonderful way for them to engage with the student who is transitioning to a new community and make a positive impact.
Â
The Student Transition Program counselors and ambassadors assist newly arriving students with finding community within their new school. Learn more about the Pacific Region’s Student Transition program
Contact the Lester MS STP Coordinator(s):
Learn more about the DoDEA Pacific region's Student Transition Program
