Congressman Robert Aderholt has introduced the DUAL (Defense United Access to Learning) Act, aiming to expand college credit opportunities for high school students in military families attending Department of Defense Education Activity (DODEA) schools. This initiative would allow DODEA to collaborate with accredited colleges and universities to offer dual enrollment programs similar to those available to public school students across most states.
Currently, DODEA students must personally finance these opportunities and arrange them independently, unlike their counterparts nationwide who benefit from state-funded dual enrollment programs established by schools. The proposed legislation seeks to eliminate this disparity, enabling thousands of students on military bases both domestically and internationally to earn college credits while completing high school. Notably, the bill does not require new funding but authorizes the use of existing Department of Defense funds for this purpose.
“Military families make tremendous sacrifices for our country, and their children deserve the same educational opportunities that are available to other students nationwide,” stated Congressman Aderholt. “This bill removes an unnecessary barrier and allows DODEA to invest in the future of its students, without increasing federal spending.”
The legislation is designed to provide equitable access to advanced academic opportunities for approximately 12,000 high school students enrolled in DODEA schools. It aims to enhance college readiness, remove financial barriers, and strengthen the academic competitiveness of Department of Defense dependents.
“The DUALAct ensures that the children of our service members are no longer placed at a disadvantage simply because of their parents’ military service,” Aderholt added. “It’s a commonsense fix that will make a meaningful difference in the lives of thousands of military families.”
The proposal has garnered support from prominent education and military family advocacy organizations such as the Military Child Education Coalition and the National Military Family Association.
