Department of Defense Education Activity

Employee of the Quarter - Second Quarter 2021

Michelle Block

Ms. Michelle Block

Program Analyst
Pacific Region Office

Employee of the Quarter

April – June 2021

 

Michelle Block directly supports the region and districts based on her extensive knowledge of DoDEA programs and systems and collaboration with Headquarters divisions and internal and external stakeholders across DoDEA and the Pacific.

Block spearheaded a Summer Travel Working Group to allow over 888 families (2,210 persons) the opportunity to travel while meeting host-nation travel requirements.

Block liaised with senior DoDEA leaders to obtain an exception to policies to allow Renewal Agreement Travelers (RAT) to use military airlift avoiding the required 14-day quarantine in Tokyo, Japan. In addition to saving money, this initiative freed up military lodging for other employees needing Restriction of Movement (ROM) in Tokyo.

Block also worked closely with U.S. Forces Japan (USFJ) and service components to obtain host nation approval to use designated off-base hotels for quarantined individuals. DoDEA was the first agency to gain approval and led the way for other services to follow suit.

Block led DoDEA Pacific’s coordination with USFJ by collaborating on cross-cutting issues, including the COVID-19 testing process and positive case management and reporting.

Block's positive impact is felt throughout the Pacific Region. She truly reflects DoDEA’s vision of “Excellence in Education for Every Student, Every Day, Everywhere.”