From Nov. 17–21, SHAPE American High School students embraced an important challenge: building a healthy, balanced and positive approach to technology use during Digital Citizenship Week. The annual campaign encourages young people to reflect on their digital habits and develop strategies for responsible tech use—an especially timely focus as DoDEA prepares for a major shift.

Many people would agree that to be at SHAPE High School is to be surrounded by different cultures, languages, and beliefs, as a NATO affiliated base the high school has students from over 27 different countries. However, few would expect to find that same diversity reflected so vividly on a single team. This year, the SHAPE High School girls’ varsity volleyball team made history with a roster unlike any other—12 players from 12 different countries.

The Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) has officially launched the 2025–26 school year across its 64 schools in Europe. Operating in four districts, eight countries, and four time zones, DoDEA Europe serves nearly 26,000 military-connected students with the support of thousands of dedicated teachers, educational aides and staff.

Dr. Michelle Howard Brahaney, Director for Student Excellence with the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) Europe, recently experienced the thrill of a lifetime by jumping alongside the U.S. Army Golden Knights parachute team. The high-adrenaline event offered her unique perspectives on leadership, courage, and connection with the students and educators she supports across Europe.