DoDEA

ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA — September 4, 2008 — The Army has launched the eCYBERMISSION Awards Program for the 2008-2009 School Year and DoDEA is encouraging students to participate in the program. The competition promotes real-life science and encourages students in grades 6-9 to identify a problem in their community and apply the scientific method to create an innovative solution. The students work in groups of 3-4 with an adult Team Advisor.

Now in its sixth year, eCYBERMISSION has awarded more than $3.5 million in prize money in support of the science, mathematics, and technology leaders of tomorrow. Since its inception, more than 35,000 students from across the country, U.S. territories, and DoDEA have participated. DoDEA has had winning teams from Heidelberg Middle School, Taegu Elementary/High School, and Guam High School.

"Science, engineering, technology and mathematics are critical to the advancements of health, business ingenuity, global competitiveness, and national security," said Kim Day, Chief of Science, Health and Physical Education for DoDEA.

"Our nation recognizes the national shortage of graduates in these fields and we have to engage students differently to create a sustainable interest in science and engineering," Day added. "The eCYBERMISSION program helps students gain appreciation for these fields through the engagement in real-life applications of the scientific process."

The issues addressed by students can range anywhere from technological to social, economic to environmental. Teams will select a problem related to one of four Mission Challenges: Sports & Recreation, Arts & Entertainment, Environment, and Health & Safety.

Teams wishing to participate in the program need to register by December 19, 2008. To register visit the website: www.ecybermission.com.

The US Army hopes to continue to motivate and inspire students' interests in science, mathematics, and technology and encourage students to apply for this year's competition, which opened August 1, 2008. For more information, visit www.ecybermission.com or call 1-866-GO-CYBER (1-866-462-9237).

DoDEA plans, directs, coordinates, and manages the education programs for Department of Defense dependents who would otherwise not have access to a high-quality public education. DoDEA consists of the Department of Defense Dependents Schools located overseas, and the Department of Defense Domestic Dependent Elementary and Secondary Schools located in the United States and its territories and possessions. DoDEA provides education to eligible DoD military and civilian dependents from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade.