Military Interstate Children's Compact Commission (MIC3)
Support for military dependents' education was enhanced by the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children Act, Feb. 2, 2012, P.L. 42, No. 6. This act was signed into law on February 2, 2012. It authorizes the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children; providing for the form and enforcement of the compact; imposing additional powers and duties on the Governor, the Secretary of the Commonwealth, and the compact commissioner; and establishing the State Council on Interstate Educational Opportunity for Military Children.
Pennsylvania State Statute: 2012 Act 6 - PA General Assembly
What is an Interstate Compact?
Essentially a contract between states, which allows governments to work collaboratively to address issues or concerns across boundaries. Compacts are an effective mechanism for states to utilize and solve problems, often avoiding federal intervention. The MIC3 is the fourth compact in 50 years to be adopted by all 50 states and Washington, D.C. A compact commissioner is appointed by each member state, who works with the state council to oversee the administration, management, and compliance of the compact within the state.
Purpose of the Compact
The compact addresses the challenges military children face, including frequent relocation. It allows for uniform treatment as military children transfer between school districts in member states. The compact only applies to public schools.
It is the purpose of this compact to remove barriers to educational success imposed on children of military families because of frequent moves and deployment of their parents by facilitating:
- Enrollment
- Transfer of education records from the previous school district(s) or variations in entrance/age requirements
- Student placement and placement flexibility
- Qualification and eligibility for enrollment, educational programs, and participation in extracurricular academic, athletic, and social activities
- On-time graduation and graduation flexibility
- Special Education Services
- Absence related to Deployment Activities
- Flexibility and cooperation between the educational system, parents, and the student to achieve educational success for the student
State Council on Interstate Educational Opportunity for Military Children
The State Council on Interstate Educational Opportunity for Military Children provides guidance and assistance within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania - Military Interstate Children's Compact Commission