Principal's Corner

Welcome to Dexter Families

It is with great enthusiasm that I welcome you to the 2025–2026 academic year at Dexter Elementary School. Whether you are joining us for the first time or returning to our community, we are honored to partner with you in the education of your child.

This year marks Dexter’s 56th year of distinguished service to military-connected families. We remain steadfast in our commitment to providing a nurturing, intellectually stimulating, and safe learning environment where every student is empowered to thrive. Our mission is deeply aligned with DoDEA’s vision:

“To Educate, Engage, and Empower military-connected students to succeed in a dynamic world.”

As Principal, I am dedicated to ensuring Excellence in Education Every Day for Every Student. Our instructional approach is rooted in the DoDEA College and Career Ready (CCR) standards, which guide our educators in delivering rigorous, standards-based instruction. Students will engage in purposeful learning experiences that foster critical thinking, collaboration, and academic inquiry. Our goal is to cultivate learners who are not only prepared for future academic success but also equipped to contribute meaningfully to an ever-evolving global society.

We recognize that strong partnerships between school and home are essential to student achievement. I encourage all families to become active participants in our school community—whether through joining the PTO, volunteering, or attending school events. Your involvement enriches our school culture and strengthens the support network that surrounds each child.

Together, we can make a profound impact on the lives of our students. I look forward to a year filled with growth, achievement, and shared success. Thank you for entrusting us with your child’s education. We are excited to welcome you and your family back to Dexter Elementary School.

School News

Published on February 3, 2026
Hello! I am your newest Occupational Therapist (OT). Originally from Manila, I graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of the Philippines and later went on to complete my Post-Professional Master of Occupational Therapy degree...
Published on February 1, 2026
Hello! This will be my 20th year at Fort Benning Schools and my 33rd year as an Occupational Therapist. I am excited to be here for another great adventure this school year! My husband and I have raised 3 kind and wonderful human beings.
I love to do skilled crafts to make things. I am learning to knit. My family and I are bibliophiles (love and collect books), so we keep running out of space on our bookshelves. I have 2 big dogs who are always excited to see me! I love to be in the woods with the trees, birds, and wildlife. Day hikes and waterfalls are two of my favorite things. I love trying and preparing international foods.
Published on February 1, 2026
My name is David Hanchett, and I’m a special education teacher who brings a wide range of life experiences into the classroom. I grew up in the Seattle area, but I bounced around a lot as a kid due to my father’s work, changing schools more often than I changed grades. That experience gave me an early understanding of how challenging school transitions can be and how important it is for students to feel supported and welcomed.
Ms. Maureen Barefield, DoDEA employees official photo.

Ms. Maureen Barefield

99 Yeager Ave Bldg 1400
Fort Benning, GA 31905-6522
United States

762-524-6490
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