Frequently Asked Questions

What is FEA?

FEA is the Federal Education Association. We are an affiliate of the National Education Association, representing teachers and education employees in the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA).

What is DoDEA?

DoDEA, the Department of Defense Education Activity, is the government agency responsible for operating the Department of Defense schools. There are two school systems overseen by DoDEA: DoDDS, the Department of Defense Dependents Schools, covers all DoDEA schools on military bases outside of U.S. territory; DDESS, the Domestic Dependents Elementary and Secondary Schools, provides education services to military dependents on certain bases within the United States, as well as on U.S. territories, such as Guam and Puerto Rico.

What does FEA do?

FEA represents and advocates for faculty and staff in DoDEA schools. Among the services we provide members are negotiating and enforcing contracts, protecting employee rights and speaking out for the interests of educators and their students.

How can I get a job teaching overseas?

All hiring is done through DoDEA. To inquire about job openings and the application process, visit DoDEA’s Human Resources site at https://www.dodea.edu/Offices/HR/employment/vacancies.cfm. 

How can I join FEA?

FEA membership is open to any educator employed at any DoDEA school, as well as to Education Support Professional (ESP) employees at DDESS locations. Visit the Membership page of this site for a membership form and information on the benefits of membership.

How can members be more engaged and connected with other members? 

Members can:

• Follow us on Facebook  and Twitter and share any projects you are working on or resources you have found
• Run for Association office as a building rep, within your Area, or for a position on the FEA Board of Directors
• Start a discussion group or book club in FEA’s group in NEA 360.
• Attend an association meeting at your school within your FEA Area or at FEA’s Annual Membership Meeting held each summer
• Nominate yourself to be a delegate to the NEA Representative Assembly or look for other NEA meetings or trainings you might be able to attend
• Share a story of professional growth or student success with other members by emailing us at fea@feaonline.org.

How do I contact FEA for more information or assistance?

Please send your inquiry to fea@feaonline.org. If you are a current DoDEA employee, please be sure to include the name of your school and your job title along with your message.