By Dr. Don Phipps
CCS’ Executive Director of Student Services 

In an effort to ensure that the needs of military children are being met, the Cumberland County Schools recently created the position of Military Child Support Liaison (MCSL). Designed to assist military families with needs as they relate to deployment and relocation, this position helps coordinate and support efforts to assess demands, build awareness of resources, and make connections to supportive solutions. The liaison role provides a connection through the school system that will help families with concerns find solutions. 

The stress placed on families in the midst of the relocation or the deployment of a family member can be overwhelming. Support for these families can come from many places, some military-affiliated and others not. The MCSL works with agencies and organizations in our area to help ensure a network of support is in place when needed. In addition, the MCSL also works closely with the School Liaison Officers from Fort Bragg and Pope Air Force Base. 

Another role of the Military Child Support Liaison is to work with various departments within the Cumberland County Schools to produce materials and programs that target military families.  

The person who has recently filled the MCSL position is Shannon Shurko, who taught 8th-grade science at Anne Chesnutt Middle School and assumed various educational leadership roles while there. In addition to her professional experience and knowledge of our schools, Shurko is the wife of an active duty soldier and has worked with family readiness groups (FRG’s) and Army Family Team Building (AFTB) for many years. Shurko is also a member of the National Military Family Association and the Military Child Education Coalition.  

Shurko’s combination of public school experience and military knowledge allows her to work effectively in all aspects of a MCSL. She can be reached at 910.678.7008.