The Military Child Education Coalition® (MCEC®) proudly announces the recipients of the 2024 LTG (Retired) H.G. “Pete” Taylor Partnership of Excellence Award™ at the MCEC Global Training Summit in Washington, DC. These awards, presented this year by Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman (SEAC) Troy E. Black and his wife, USMC retired First Sgt. Stacie Black recognize outstanding partnerships that exemplify the belief that "goodness starts at the local level," celebrating efforts that significantly support military-connected children

The participation by SEAC and Mrs. Black is a special honor for MCEC and the award recipients, given their distinguished career and deep understanding of the challenges faced by military families. Their presence underscores the importance of these partnerships in fostering resilient and supportive communities for military-connected children.

“As you can imagine, especially those who have served in uniform or those who are currently serving, a lot of people will say to us “Thank you for your service,” said SEAC Black to the audience of teachers, school administrators, student leadership groups and MCEC personnel. “It's not often that we get to turn around and look at a group and say, thank YOU for your service. Thank you for how you engage in education.”

“On behalf of LTG Taylor, congratulations to this year’s winners who reflect the best of our military communities and serve as an example for others to emulate,” said MCEC President and CEO, Dr. Becky Porter. “Thank you for your initiative, creativity, selfless service, and dedication to others. Your success continues the legacy of those before you and reinforces LTG Taylor’s belief that goodness starts at the local level.”

The 2024 LTG (Retired) H.G. “Pete” Taylor Partnership of Excellence Award Winners:
Outstanding Community Partnership:

Bay Area Education Alliance - Florida

• Partners: Naval Support Activity Panama City, Tyndall Air Force Base, Bay District Schools, Florida State University at Panama City, Gulf Coast State College, Collegiate High School at Florida State University
• Highlights: Over 55 military-affiliated mentors contributed 2,500+ volunteer hours, recognized with 18 Purple Star Schools Awards, and engaged 300+ students with Military Honor Cords. Events like STEMFEST and Military Showcase highlight STEM career paths within the military.

Exemplary Community Partnership:

Military-Connected Youth Process Action Team – Virginia

• Partners: Fort Belvoir, Fairfax County Public Schools, George Mason University, Military Veterans and Families Initiative at George Mason University
• Highlights: Regular meetings identify needs and strategies, ensuring positive experiences for military-connected youth.

Recognized Community Partnership:

Count on Me – Alabama, Mississippi, and Texas

• Partners: Fort Cavazos, Columbus Air Force Base, Killeen Independent School District, Madison City Schools District, Temple Independent School District, Lowndes County School, Meadows Elementary School, Liberty Middle School, Caledonia Elementary School, Meridith-Dunbar Early Childhood Academy
• Highlights: Initiatives like Read Across America and Family STEM Night, establishment of Free Little Libraries, and support for children facing health challenges.

Outstanding Individual Program/Project:

PreApprenticeship: Operation Future Force (OFF) – Alaska

• Partners: Eielson AFB, Fairbanks North Star Borough School District, Alaska Air National Guard 168th Air Guard, Ben Eielson Jr/Sr High School, Anderson Crawford Elementary School
• Highlights: Career exploration in various Air Force specialties, with over 140 military squadron commanders mentoring high school students.

Exemplary Individual Program/Project:

Semper Instructis – Florida

• Partners: Coast Guard Sector Key West, Monroe County School District, Sigsbee Charter School
• Highlights: STEM-based Problem-Based Learning (PBL) curriculum supporting social-emotional needs, mentorship by service members, and activities improving mental wellness.

About the Award

Created in 2004, the LTG (Retired) H.G. “Pete” Taylor Partnership of Excellence Award™ recognizes the work of former MCEC Chairman, LTG (Retired) H.G. “Pete” Taylor, in assisting military-connected children. The award encourages the sharing of lessons learned and acknowledges LTG Taylor’s belief that “goodness starts at the local level.”

About the Military Child Education Coalition

MCEC® is a 501(c)(3) global nonprofit leadership, service delivery, and advocacy organization. MCEC supports all military-connected children by educating, advocating, and collaborating to resolve education challenges associated with the military lifestyle. Learn more about the national advocacy efforts of MCEC at MilitaryChild.org and on social media at Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

Media Contact:
Karen Kirk
Director of Marketing and Creative
Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC)
Email: Karen.Kirk@MilitaryChild.org
Phone: 254.953.1923 ext. 1123