Governor Signs Bill to Repeal Changes to Military Education Program

Since its inception in 1996, many military education families homeschooling in Virginia have benefited from the Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program (VMSDEP). The Virginia legislature gutted that benefit during the 2024 session. Following a public outcry from military advocates, the legislature responded, rescinding the changes during a special session in July. Additionally, the governor committed more public funding to bolster the program.

VMSDEP provides a waiver of tuition for up to eight semesters at Virginia public universities to spouses and children of service members who were killed, missing, or taken prisoner in combat, and to families of first responders killed in the line of duty. It is also available to spouses and children of veterans who are at least 90 percent permanently disabled due to their combat-related military service. Some eligible students may receive a stipend each semester to offset educational expenses.

HEAV applauds the resolution by the state legislature and Governor Younkin. We remain committed to providing information and support to military homeschoolers. Resources and information are available on our website, and questions are welcome to be addressed to our military liaison at military@heav.org.