Jennifer Rauchet Hegseth visits DoDEA Europe schools

Jennifer Rauchet Hegseth, spouse of the Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, was joined by Angela Abernathy, spouse of Command Sgt. Maj. Robert Abernathy, U.S. European Command senior enlisted leader, and Amy Fulford, spouse of Lt. Gen. Robert Fulford, deputy commander of U.S. European Command on a tour of three DoDEA schools in Europe: Patch Elementary, Brussels Unit School, and SHAPE Elementary. They were accompanied by DoDEA Director Dr. Beth Schiavino-Narvaez and DoDEA Europe Director for Student Excellence Dr. Michelle Howard-Brahaney.

The delegation visited Patch Elementary School in Stuttgart, Germany, on Feb. 11, where they toured 21st century learning spaces and observed DoDEA’s universal prekindergarten program in action. The visit highlighted DoDEA’s commitment to academic excellence, including discussions on the latest National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) results.

In 2024, fourth and eighth grade students attending DoDEA schools led the nation in scoring on the NAEP reading and mathematics assessments. DoDEA students’ average scale scores ranged from 14 to 25 points higher than corresponding national average scores and remained steady while national averages mostly decreased. The visit concluded with a spouse roundtable discussion, where military families shared insights on the unique challenges and successes of military-connected students. 

On Feb. 12, the group traveled to Brussels Unit School in Brussels, Belgium, the newest 21st century school in DoDEA Europe. The school provides a modern, flexible learning environment for students in elementary through high school. During the visit, the delegation toured classrooms designed to foster collaboration and innovation, met with students participating in STEM and leadership programs, and discussed the impact of extracurricular activities on student success. The visitors also engaged with educators about how the school’s design supports DoDEA’s College and Career Ready Standards.

The visit concluded on Feb. 13 at SHAPE Elementary School in Mons, Belgium, where the delegation focused on early childhood education. Engaging with elementary students, the visitors observed hands-on, interactive lessons that emphasize literacy, numeracy and critical thinking. Discussions centered on the importance of early education in providing a strong foundation for military-connected students.

Throughout the visits, leaders reinforced DoDEA’s mission to provide a world-class education to military-connected students. By fostering academic excellence, student engagement and strong community partnerships, DoDEA continues to support military families and ensure students thrive in a global learning environment.