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School Liaison

About

The School Liaison Officer (SLO) supports military families with PreK–12 education needs, providing guidance, resources, and information to help navigate local schools and transitions. Appointments are recommended. The School Liaison visits NAF El Centro monthly and is also available by phone during regular business hours.

For assistance or questions, please contact the representatives listed below.

Points of Contact

Giselle Cueva, East County School Liaison
Email: giselle.cueva.naf@us.navy.mil
Phone: 619-372-8914

Katrina Portwood, NAF El Centro Child & Youth Program Director
Email: kartina.r.portwood.civ@us.navy.mil

How the School Liaison Can Help

  • Answer questions about school enrollment options
  • Provide information on local schools and boundaries
  • Assist with inbound and outbound school transfers
  • Help families understand and navigate the education process
  • Offer resources for college readiness
  • Provide agency referrals
  • Support families with additional school-related needs


School Liaisons are available to assist all service members and their families with education-related questions and transitions.

Resources

These organizations and tools support military-connected students and families with education, transitions, tutoring, and school-related guidance.

Schools

Public Schools

Military families living in housing on board NAF El Centro are served by nearby Imperial County school districts. The information below outlines local school options, early education programs, transportation, homeschooling guidance, immunization requirements, and special education support.

Imperial County Office of Education

Imperial County includes 21 school districts and colleges. Families can access school calendars, district links, and additional education resources through the county’s website.

Early Care & Education Programs

Imperial County offers two early childhood education options: State Preschool and Head Start/Early Head Start. Program availability and locations vary throughout the county.

Seeley Union School District

Located approximately 1.5 miles from NAF El Centro, Seeley Union School District is the assigned district for military families living on the installation. The district serves students in Transitional Kindergarten through 8th grade.

Central Union High School District

Central Union High School District includes three high schools, one adult school, and a virtual academy. High school students residing on NAF El Centro attend Southwest High School.

School District Transportation

Transportation is available for students living on NAF El Centro who attend Seeley Union School District and Central Union High School District. Students receiving special education services may also qualify for transportation if it is included in their IEP.

Homeschooling in California

Families exploring homeschooling can review state-approved options and requirements through the California Department of Education:
https://www.cde.ca.gov/sp/ps/homeschool.asp

Immunizations for Enrollment

California allows military students 30 days from enrollment to obtain required immunizations. For vaccine series, the first dose must be completed within the 30-day window. Requirements and additional details are available at:
https://www.shotsforschool.org/

Special Education

All school districts provide programs for students with disabilities. Families arriving with an existing Individualized Education Program (IEP) should contact the receiving district to begin coordination of services. School Liaisons can help families understand the special education process and connect them with district specialists.

Families enrolled in the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) are encouraged to contact their case liaison to ensure medical and educational needs are supported. Local EFMP Case Liaison Office: 619-705-5978.

Youth Sponsorship

Youth Sponsorship, available for students in grades 3–12, connects incoming military children with positive peer groups and social activities, helping them feel more connected and confident at their new duty station. Sponsors can introduce youth to local schools, programs, and installation activities.

If you would like your child to be connected with a local youth sponsor, please complete the fields in the form below. After your request is submitted, a School Liaison Officer or Youth Center Manager will contact you with next steps.

For Youth Sponsorship through School Age Care or Youth Programs, participants must be enrolled or registered users of those programs.

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