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Advancing Understanding and Recognition of Military-Connected Children
Policy, Research & Insights
The Policy, Research & Insights page consolidates evidence-informed observations, program learnings, and field insights developed through the work of the Military Child World Expo Foundation (MCWEF).
This page provides a neutral, educational resource for educators, policymakers, funders, community organizations, and partners seeking a clearer understanding of the experiences and needs of military-connected children.
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Our Approach
MCWEF’s policy and research work is:
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Non-partisan and educational
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Grounded in lived experience
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Informed by convenings and community engagement
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Focused on children and families, not institutions
We do not engage in lobbying. Our role is to document, synthesize, and share insights that improve recognition, belonging, and outcomes for military-connected youth.
Sources of Insight
MCWEF insights are informed by:
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National convenings, including the Military Child World Expo
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Youth participation and engagement activities
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Caregiver recognition and documentation pathways
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Arts & humanities programming focused on identity and belonging
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Community, school, and partner engagement
Findings are aggregated and presented to protect privacy while elevating shared themes and needs.
Key Focus Areas
Identity, Belonging & Cultural Continuity
Military-connected children often navigate frequent transitions and cross-cultural environments. MCWEF documents the role of arts, storytelling, and cultural expression in supporting identity and belonging.
Caregiving & Youth Responsibility
Through the Teen Caregiver Community Service Hours (TCCSH) framework, MCWEF examines how caregiving responsibilities affect youth time, wellbeing, and educational participation—and how recognition can support resilience and equity.
Access & Participation
Insights related to access, inclusion, and participation help inform how programs, schools, and communities can better support military-connected youth in public spaces and civic life.
Community & School Engagement
MCWEF captures practices that strengthen collaboration among families, schools, and community organizations serving military-connected children.
Publications & Briefs
This section will include:
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Issue briefs and summaries
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Program learning reports
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Event-informed insights
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Educational resources for stakeholders
(Publications will be added as they are finalized.)
Use of Insights
MCWEF insights are intended to:
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Inform educational practice and program design
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Support evidence-based decision-making
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Enhance public understanding
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Guide responsible partnership and funding
All materials are provided for informational purposes.
Transparency & Ethics
MCWEF is committed to ethical data practices.
We:
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Do not collect or publish personally identifiable youth data without consent
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Present aggregated, de-identified findings
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Center youth safety, dignity, and respect
Learn More
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Youth Resource Hub
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MCWEF’s equity approach ensures that recognition, participation, and youth engagement are not influenced by economic circumstances.
