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WELCOME TO DLI | CONTACT INFORMATION |
WELCOME TO DLI
Welcome to the Defense Language Institute English Language Center, better known as DLI or DLIELC. This handbook will help you prepare for your stay at Lackland Air Force Base by providing you with necessary information to successfully complete your training. For many of our students this is their first stop in the United States (US) and it is important to know what is expected of you. This handbook is your first tool to help you adjust to military training in America. If you do not fully understand any of the information in this handbook, please ask questions during your in-processing briefings that occur upon your arrival.
CONTACT INFORMATION
DLI Service Desk: (210) 671-2929 or 671-2927
Emergency: 911
DLI In-processing: (210) 671-4212 or 671-4213
Lodging/Billeting: (210) 675-5050
Military Training Managers: (210) 671-0841 or 671-0842
Country Program Managers: (210) 671-3342
DLI Internet Web site: www.dlielc.edu
DLI Mailing Address: 2235 Andrews Ave
Lackland AFB, TX 78236-5514
ABOUT DLI
The Defense Language Institute English Language Center is a world-renowned institution in the field of English language training. Our mission is to teach, monitor, and conduct defense English language programs. This includes all programs for US Armed Forces and for international military, funded through the Security Assistance program. We provide English language training to students sponsored by the US Air Force, Army, Navy, and Marine Corps.
US military training and professional education courses are challenging. Therefore, each student must be able to speak and understand the English language in order to successfully complete his or her training. Each year, approximately one-third of the international students who come to the US for training start their journey at DLI. Their first step is to study English and improve their English ability, or to learn to be English instructors or school administrators. Students are immersed in an English-only environment from the very first day.
DLI is a Gateway to America. Averages of 750 students from over 80 different countries are in residence every day. The student body can reach up to 1,000 students, depending on the world situation. It is estimated that, on any given day, another 25,000 military students are in classrooms throughout the world studying this institute’s American Language Course.
STEP ONE — COME PREPARED
Some important items will be discussed below to ease your transition at DLI. They are: arriving, documents, money, quarters, additional transportation, climate, and medical care. By taking time to complete certain actions before departing your country, your first weeks here will be more pleasant.
Arriving
Upon your arrival at the San Antonio International Airport you may call the DLI Service Desk at Lackland from a designated telephone near the baggage center in the airport. Or, you may report to the USO and use the designated DLI phone at the counter. When making the call, please reference the CONTACT INFORMATION previously noted in this handbook. In some cases you may be directed by DLI personnel to take a taxi from the airport to Lackland at your own expense. You can be reimbursed for the taxi expense upon return to your country.
Documents
Bring at least six (6) copies of your invitational travel orders (ITO), your passport and visa, and any medical documents with appropriate translations in English. Your invitational travel order is the official document for controlling all your training and entitlements while you are in the US. Ensure that it reflects all the training you expect to receive, identifies the periods of authorized travel and authorization for leave, lists all the family members authorized to accompany you, any additional pay entitlements, and baggage limits. Your invitational travel orders should also identify passport and visa requirements. Visas govern your entry into the US as long as you stay in the US. It should not expire until after you complete all training listed on your invitational travel orders. If you’re bringing dependents, you may need to have immunization and academic history records to enroll children in school.
Money
All questions regarding the money you will need while in the US should be taken care of before leaving your country. At DLI there are approximately 500-700 students at any one time and no accommodations are made for students’ children. If you are considering bringing your family, you will be responsible for their needs and should understand what the extra costs are. Make sure you have enough money with you to cover the cost of getting settled and living for the first month. How much you need is directly related to your decision concerning your family. (The information given here will supplement, not replace, the briefing you should receive from official US embassy representatives in your country. If you have not already received such a briefing, make arrangements to receive one before you leave your country).
Living and Eating On Base
You will be provided a place to live on base near the classroom building for less than $30 per night for officer and enlisted rooms. Suites are limited and available for General Officers. If you bring children, you will not be assigned quarters on base. Temporary family quarters are not available. DLI does not reserve family quarters. On base, you can purchase your own meals at the international dining facility, the Amigo Inn, which is located next to the classroom building. Meals are inexpensive, usually between $5 and $6. Students who have their own transportation may choose to eat at nearby restaurants.
Living off Base
Students who bring their families must plan for complete living expenses in the local community. If you bring children, expect to spend several nights in a motel before moving to an apartment. For a family of three to five, a motel room will cost from $100 to $150 per day. A variety of restaurants are available in the city if you have transportation, but expect to spend about $20 per person per day for three simple meals. A typical two-bedroom, furnished apartment rents for approximately $1000 or more per month. There is usually an additional charge if the rent is not paid by the fifth of each month. You will probably be asked to sign a lease and pay the first and last months’ rent at the time you move in. You will usually be required to pay a “security” or “damage deposit” of $150 to $250 at the time you move in. In addition, you may be asked to pay a “cleaning deposit” of $50 to $100 or more at the same time. If the apartment is left clean to the satisfaction of the owners and there is no damage at the time you leave, you may receive all or a portion of these deposits back depending on the leasing agent’s rules. Before you sign a lease, we strongly urge you discuss it with a Military Training Manager at DLI.
Utilities
In addition to renting an apartment, you can also expect to pay for the utilities, such as electricity, gas, water, sewer, trash collection, telephone, and cable/satellite television. In some cases these extra costs may be included in your rent. Most utility companies require a down payment or deposit before starting the service. You are billed monthly based on utility usage. For example, average electricity costs for a two-bedroom apartment could cost $60-$100 per month. Telephones are not included in the rent. Service connection charges vary, depending on the number of phones and type of service you desire. Expect to pay a $40-$75 installation phone charge. In addition, the telephone company requires a deposit of about $75. After the phone is connected, you can expect to pay a monthly service charge of around $35-$40, with additional charges for long distance service. Transportation to the base is another expense.
Additional Transportation around San Antonio
Taxis in San Antonio have varying rates and the distance from the airport to the Lackland area is about 19 miles. You may spend from $20-30 for a one-way trip. City bus service is available in most parts of the city, but there is no scheduled service from the airport to Lackland. Although the city bus does not come on the base, you may walk a short distance off base and catch the bus to parts of the city. There are many rental car agencies in the city. To rent a vehicle, you must have a valid driver’s license and a nationally accepted credit card. Rates vary by company and will depend on the type of car you rent, but the least expensive car may cost $150 to $200 per week. You must pay for your own gas. You may choose to lease a car. This will likely cost $500 per month and higher. In addition, you may have to pay for excessive mileage. Leasing differs from renting by the length of the contract. A rental car may be returned at any time. Most leasing contracts require a minimum of three months in duration. Leased cars also require the purchase of insurance.
Medical Care
Before your arrival, you must understand who will pay for your medical bills and your family’s medical bills while in the US. With students from over 90 countries each year requiring different medical needs, it is impractical to describe each of your medical benefits and possible charges. Limited medical care is available to military service members at Lackland; however, dependents may have to be treated in off-base health care facilities at your expense. It is strongly encouraged that you understand and make arrangements for health care insurance and ensure you have an agreement with your government to cover the expenses in cases where you are responsible for the charges.
Climate and Weather
San Antonio has a modified subtropical climate and is located on the edge of the Gulf Coastal Plains. The weather in the summer is slightly hot; it ranges from 104°F (40°C) to 99°F (37°C). Below freezing temperatures occur only about 20 days each year during the winter months. Humidity varies from an average of 80% in the early morning to an afternoon level of 50%. The average annual rainfall is 27 inches, and the average daily temperature is 70° Fahrenheit (21° Celsius) varying from 43° Fahrenheit (6° Celsius) to 95° Fahrenheit (35° Celsius).
STEP TWO — ARRIVAL AND INPROCESSING
You must attend the in-processing briefing at 0730 hours on Thrs and Fri. You will have an opportunity to meet the US personnel responsible for your training at DLI. During your stay at DLI you will be responsible for the information provided in these briefings and the information printed in this handbook. Failure to follow recommended procedures and information may result in academic or discipline problems. A sample schedule of briefings is provided below:
• Thursday: Commandant, Dean of Academics, Operations Squadron Commander, Country Program Managers, Lodging Manager, Field Studies, Identification Cards, English Comprehension Level Orientation.
• Friday: Disciplinary Issues, Military Training Managers, Class Assignment, Traffic Safety.
• Monday: First day of classes and Finance (paychecks) orientation. If your monthly paycheck comes through DLI, you will need to bring the following items to the finance briefing.
1. Copy of your Invitation Travel Order
2. All Travel / Transportation / Airline Ticket Receipts
3. Post Office Box Number
4. Detailed Lodging Report (request from International Student Quarters lodging when you check-in)
5. Identification Card (if already issued)
6. Bank account information
• Tuesday: English Comprehension Level test. You will take the computer-assisted English Comprehension Level test to verify your English Comprehension Level.
Academic Training and Building Friendships
Here at DLI, the curriculum is divided into three academic areas: General English, Specialized English, and Instructor Development. If you are here for General English, you will practice all the basic English skills as you study DLI’s American Language Course. You will learn the essentials of conversational English and are advanced on the basis of your individual progress. Additionally, non-native English speaking US Army personnel complete the General English course before moving on to follow-on training.
If you come to DLI for Specialized English, you will be trained in over thirty different specialty areas. We do not teach technical subject material but provide a solid understanding of the words and phrases that you will encounter in your particular follow-on training courses. We teach and improve the academic skills that will be expected of you in US military classrooms.
The most advanced and demanding of the international programs is found in the Instructor Development branch. If you are here for Instructor Development, you will become more familiar with DLI’s American Language Course as you prepare to be an instructor or manager of an English language program. Instructor Development courses vary in length from several weeks to six months and involve studies in English language structure, speaking and writing, teaching and management methods, and American culture.
At DLI, we have combined educational expertise with the latest in teaching technologies. Computer-based instruction is an integral part of our curriculum. In each of the academic areas, interactive video language lessons are used to enhance learning. You will use computers to write and revise papers and generate visual aids for classroom presentations. We are also taking advantage of emerging technologies by implementing computer-adaptive testing and computer-delivered testing. In addition, closed-circuit television broadcasts are available through the DLI broadcasting system. Televisions in each classroom and in each billeting room provide easy access to the programs, which include DLI-produced videos and other language-appropriate broadcasts.
After class, you can also continue your studies independently. Our state-of-the-art learning resource center offers 80 multimedia positions, as well as many audio and television stations. Learning center instructors can guide you in using a wide variety of local and commercially produced audio, video, and CD-ROM programs. Included in the learning resource center is our library for you to conduct research and borrow books or audiotapes for self-study.
Tours
Equally important to our mission is the DLI Field Studies Program, which helps you increase your cultural awareness and language proficiency. Through a variety of activities, which promote community interaction, you may acquire a balanced understanding of US society, institutions, freedoms, and ideals. These activities include tours in and around San Antonio, Austin, and Washington, DC. You will also have an opportunity to build friendships and further your understanding of American life as you take part in DLI’s sponsorship program known as AMIGO. The AMIGO program organized through the tour office will allow you to meet American families and make friends. Events and activities are planned each month to encourage making contact with DLI’s family of friends.
INPROCESSING BRIEFING
There are over 300 military and civilian personnel assigned to help DLI students at Lackland. It is important that you get to know and recognize key people who will be working with you during your training. Some of these are:
• Commandant: A USAF colonel is ultimately responsible for your training at Lackland. The colonel, or deputy, will be available to personally welcome you to DLI.
• Operations Squadron Commander: A USAF lieutenant colonel is the Operations Squadron Commander. This squadron provides for the health, morale and welfare of DLI students. Personnel assigned to this squadron are the first to greet you when you arrive, provide in-processing briefs, monitor your attendance and take care of many other non-academic needs you might have.
• Dean of Academics: A USAF lieutenant colonel is the Dean of Academics whose responsibility is to oversee academic issues.
• Country Program Manager (CPM): A liaison between DLI, US military departments, your homeland Security Assistance Officer and your embassy. Country Program Managers handle name/rank changes on invitational travel orders, follow-on training changes and other areas.
• Military Training Manager (MTM): US military person assigned to assist you with your personal and professional needs, such as medical appointments and housing arrangements. Their duty hours are from 0700-1600, Monday through Friday. After duty hours, there is always a Military Training Manager available to assist you in an emergency. You can visit the DLI Service Desk or call 671-2927.
• Classroom Instructors: DLI instructors are English language instructors, and are not necessarily specialists in any technical field. Their purpose is to improve your English language skills in listening, reading, writing and speaking. Follow-on training sites at other US locations will provide technical training. You can expect to improve the English skills you need for follow-on training. Any problems with academic training should be resolved with your instructor first, then the supervisor and finally with the Dean of Academics.
STEP THREE — VALUABLE INFORMATION
DLI Post Office
DLI handles all of your incoming mail/packages for you after you are issued a post office box number. The postal center at DLI is located in Building 7437 and is open from 1700 to 1900 Monday through Friday and for packages the hours are 1700-1900.
Contacting Your Embassy
While at DLI, you may ask the DLI Service Desk or a Military Training Manager to call your embassy in Washington, D.C.
How to Make Comments (recommendations for your training)
While at DLI, you may have suggestions regarding your training, have problems with certain things or simply wish to give your opinion regarding an issue. You should feel free to express these concerns to responsible personnel and, if necessary, put these in writing. To receive a formal response to a written comment, please use a Student Comment Sheet. These forms are located in classrooms, the learning center, language laboratories and at the DLI Service Desk.
Military Courtesies
DLI is a military school on a US military base. You are required to follow normal US military customs and courtesies. They are:
• Military Uniforms and Saluting
Wear your complete military uniform to class and to all school day events. Military hats and saluting are OPTIONAL when students are within the main quadrangle area (defined as the square area between the Academics building, Sebille Hall, the Operations building and the Amigo Inn Dining Facility. Hats and saluting are mandatory outside of this area near housing and parking lots. Hats/caps should not be worn inside buildings.
• Nametags
Nametags will be prepared for you upon your arrival. These should be worn with your uniform.
• Rank Insignia
You will be issued an equivalent US rank insignia and a DLI insignia upon arrival. These should be worn on your uniform on the right side shirt pocket. Civilian students should also wear these.
• Identification (ID) Card
You will be given a military identification card, which you must carry with you at all times. This card will admit you to the base, the BX, the hospital, the school building and to an English Comprehension Level test center. This card contains a seven-digit student control number (SCN) that helps identify you while at DLI. You must report immediately to the PASS and ID office or a Military Training Manager if you lose your card. Do not allow anyone else to use your identification card. Upon leaving DLI, you will be required to return your identification card or update it for follow-on training. This card is an accountable item. Do not lose it. Please be extra careful with this card since duplicates are not normally issued.
Senior Student
The highest-ranking student from each country is the senior student. This person will enforce military standards among his / her countrymen, observe disciplinary and academic boards, conduct student meetings, attend quarterly senior student meetings, monitor the morale and welfare of those assigned to him/her, and represent his/her country and students at social events.
Retreat
At 1700 every afternoon the base has an official ceremony to lower the US flag. Music is played during this ceremony. It is our custom to stop our activities, turn toward the flag or music, and come to attention (salute if in uniform) until the music stops. If you are driving, stop the car and sit silently until the music stops.
Medical Care
You may use the medical care facilities provided on the base.
• Excused Medical Appointments
See the Operations Service Desk or a Military Training Manager to schedule a medical appointment and inform your teacher/instructor of your appointment. Sign out at the DLI Service Desk when you leave and sign in when you return. If you have a medical appointment during class hours and do not sign out, your absence from class will be marked as unauthorized. You must sign in at the DLI Service Desk immediately after your appointment and return to class during the school day. Only medical providers can authorize bed rest and they will provide you with a written note to be given to a Military Training Manager for the purpose of authorizing your absence from class. If you miss your medical appointment, you may face disciplinary action.
• Emergency
If you have an emergency, you may go to the emergency room at the base hospital. Sign out and back in at the DLI Service Desk. If you are physically incapable of getting to the DLI Service Desk, call 671-2927 to leave notification. When you return, provide the DLI Service Desk with an update of your condition. The DLI Service Desk will notify a Military Training Manager and make a report. The DLI Service Desk may be able to arrange transportation depending upon your condition. Call 911 if your situation is very serious or life threatening.
• Family Medical Care
For a family member to receive medical care on the base, the member must be authorized on your invitational travel orders. A Military Training Manager will help you make an appointment. If there is an emergency, take your family member to the emergency room. Bring your invitational travel orders since it will determine responsibility of payment for treatment.
• Dental Care
Dental services are provided on base for emergencies only. For any other dental care you will have to go to a civilian dentist off base. You will have to pay for this service the same day, as is the custom in most cities in the US.
• Flight Physicals
Flight physicals are required for some students. If you need one, you will be notified and scheduled for several mandatory appointments. You must attend all scheduled appointments; otherwise, your follow-on training may be delayed or canceled. If your flight physical is completed in your country before arriving, please have it translated to English to avoid delays. Bring a copy of this form with you when you arrive at DLI.
Religious Support
DLI offers U.S. Air Force religious support to students.
Civilian Clothing
Outside of class hours you may wear civilian clothing. It is important that we respect each other’s sense of decency in our attire. You should always be fully dressed when outside your room. Certain areas such as the dining facility, NCO/Officer club and fitness centers have dress codes that are strictly enforced. The following items of clothing are inappropriate to wear on base outside your room—shower shoes, underwear or pajamas as outer garments, tube or halter tops, torn clothing and clothing that contains profanity, nudity or reference to drugs and alcohol.
Storage of Valuables
Students are expected to secure their valuables whether it is money, jewelry, or any item of value in their rooms. You should have a lock box or closet in your room for the purpose of locking these items. It is your responsibility to protect these items at all times. DLI or lodging will not replace lost or stolen valuables. By securing these things, please remember to keep the key with you at all times. Check with a Military Training Manager if you need to secure any item that does not fit into these safe containers. If you discover something missing from your room, report it immediately to the lodging office and the DLI Service Desk or a Military Training Manager. You may have the option of making a report to the base police (Security Forces) as well.
Banks
There are two banks located on base which are Bank of America and Air Force Federal Credit Union. In order to open a bank account you will need the following: your Identification card (ID), a copy of your ITO, Passport, Post Office Number, and a minimum deposit of $25.00. The banks are within walking distance and near the BX and the hours are Monday - Friday 0900-1700 & Saturday 0900-1300.
Paychecks
Students under the International Military Education and Training Program (IMET) are paid on a monthly basis. If the monthly “payday” is on a weekend, paychecks will be distributed the next workday.
International Student Quarters (ISQ)
International Student Quarters are referred to as lodging, billeting or student dormitories. You will be assigned a room by ISQ upon arrival. Please refer to the ISQ folder “The Inns of Lackland” in your room for complete information (guidelines, rules and regulations) regarding your lodging at DLI.
Room Assignment
Depending on the availability, all ISQ rooms are assigned based on your rank. You must inspect your room within 24 hours of arrival and report any damages to the lodging office. You will be held responsible for damages in your room after this time. It is forbidden to move the furniture in your room. Failure to comply with this policy may result in disciplinary action.
Billeting and Phone Charges
Room charges must be paid to the lodging office at least once a month. Phone charges must be paid every two weeks. If you do not pay your bill, your room may be locked or your phone turned off until you make arrangements to pay. You will be charged every time you use the phone. Internet is also an additional charge.
Housekeeping Services
Housekeeping services are provided seven days a week during the hours 0800 to 1530 on weekdays and 0900 to 1530 on weekends or holidays, unless a “DO NOT DISTURB” sign is posted on your door. “DO NOT DISTURB” signs may not be posted for more than 48 hours (2 days). You can help the housekeeping staff by placing clothing in closets, and drawers, and by placing dirty clothing in a proper container. Please keep refrigerators free of spoiled food items. Tightly seal open food packages or store contents in a re-sealable plastic container. Students should be careful not to leave open food containers as this will attract ants and other pests very quickly.
Cooking
You may cook using the microwave provided. Other cooking devices (hot plates, rice cookers, crock pots, steamers, etc.) are not allowed. If any of these items are found in your room, housekeeping will remove them. The safety of all students is important to DLI. You are responsible for cleaning your microwave after each use. Do not use metal objects in the microwave as doing so may damage the microwave and cause injury.
Keys
You will be given a key to your room and to the laundry room. If you lose a key, please report it to the billeting office immediately. You will have to pay to replace lost keys. Disciplinary actions may occur if you loan your key to a non-resident student or duplicate keys for similar purposes. Keys must be returned at checkout.
Laundry
Laundry rooms are for dorm students only. Students living off-base are not permitted to use the laundry rooms. When using the laundry room, please be considerate of others by removing your clothes from machines as soon as they are washed or dried. It is not recommended that you leave your clothes unattended in the laundry room. DLI is not responsible for articles of clothing left unattended. All rooms are equipped with irons and ironing boards. Please unplug irons when not in use.
Changing Rooms
Do not change rooms without permission from the lodging office and a Military Training Manager. Disciplinary actions will occur if you exchange rooms without permission. Moving closer to another student from your country or a friend is not valid reason to change rooms.
Quiet Hours
Quiet hours in all dormitories are 2230 to 0800 Sunday through Thursday and 2400 to 0800 Friday and Saturday. During these hours, you must be quiet so that others may get their rest.
Temperature Control
Air conditioning or heating can be adjusted in each room according to seasonal temperature variations. During warm months you have access only to air conditioning and during cool or cold months only heating. Both kinds of temperature control are not available simultaneously.
You may experience some discomfort during the seasonal changeover period as the weather fluctuates. You are encouraged to use the issued portable electric fan or ceiling fan to circulate air as needed.
Energy Conservation
To conserve energy, turn off all lights when not in use; report leaking faucets and broken windows immediately; turn off radio and TV and unplug coffee pot when not in use; keep exterior doors closed at all times; when air conditioning or heat is on, keep windows closed; and turn these items off when you leave your room.
Flammable Items
Do not smoke in dorm rooms; do not store highly flammable liquids; do not use unauthorized cooking/heating devices in your room; do not leave cooking equipment unattended; do not place irons, coffee pots or curling irons in lockers, drawers, or on the carpet. Unplug these items before leaving your room. Do not have any open flame in the room.
Security of Personal Property
The security of your personal property is your responsibility. Lock doors when you leave the room. Keep valuables locked either in lock boxes or locking closets. Do not leave personal items in hallways, lounges, or laundry rooms. Money or high value items left lying around the room are reported to management by housekeepers and you will be required to return to your room to secure such items before service is provided.
Pest Control
The control of pests (such as roaches and ants) is an ongoing problem. These pests are attracted by food and water. Proper storage of food in sealed containers in your rooms and keeping your room clean will reduce the problems you may have with these pests. You may also help by properly discarding waste food items and keeping usable items in the refrigerator. If you have taken these precautions and still have problems, please report this to the lodging office.
Telephone Use
Telephone service at Lackland is contracted by the Air Force and is not controlled locally. Local calls are free, but you must be careful because long distance calls can be very expensive. When making a long distance call, other service providers are involved and their costs are passed on to you through the local provider. We strongly recommend you use an international calling card for overseas calls. You will be charged each time you dial the 1-800, 1-888, and 1-900 numbers even if you do not reach your party since other providers are involved in relaying your call. The lodging office is authorized to collect for telephone charges, but they have no control over the rates or the quality of service. If you have a problem with your telephone, please notify the lodging office.
Internet Use
Eighty computers are available in the student learning center. In additio
DLI has a wireless internet service on campus provided free of charge to the students.
High Speed internet is available in all dorm rooms by either wireless or ethernet connection. There is no charge for internet usage, but a refundable deposit is required if an ethernet cable is provided.
Moving Off Base
Unaccompanied, you must have pre-authorization from a Military Training Manager in order to move off base. It is advisable that you first check with your Country Program Manager, senior student or liaison officer for advice with off-base living. You are responsible for updating your local address and contact information with the operations department.
Dining Hall
The dining hall at DLI is called the Amigo Inn. You may eat all of your meals there if you choose to do so. A variety of foods and balanced meals are served daily. They are inexpensive compared to what you would pay in a restaurant off-base. The Amigo Inn staff makes every effort to meet the variety of expectations and endeavors to honor cultural/religious needs of students. If you have any question or suggestion, please see the Amigo Inn manager.
Dining Hall Hours:
Weekdays: Breakfast at 0515-0800; Lunch at 1045-1330; Dinner at 1700-1900.
Weekends/holidays: Breakfast at 0700-0900; Lunch at 1100-1300; Dinner at 1730-1900.
Leave and Holidays
You are authorized one day of leave during your stay at DLI. This may be used anytime except during the final week of training, four-day weeks, and when important tests are scheduled. To request leave, you must notify a Military Training Manager at least five academic days prior to the leave day. Leave must be approved by your Military Training Manager. Certain holidays for particular countries will also be authorized. A Military Training Manager or Country Program Manager can advise you of the holidays adopted by your country.
Driving in the US
If you drive in the US, you must have the following documents: driver’s license, proof of vehicle ownership, and proof of vehicle insurance. If you are stopped anywhere by the police, you will be asked for these documents. Failure to have them with you while driving may cost a lot of money. A driver’s license may be international, US, or from your home country if the country has reciprocity with the US. See a Military Training Manager for advice or to find out if your country has reciprocity with the US. Proof of ownership may be a title, bill of sale, or rental contract. Proof of insurance must be current and failure to have it will result in a heavy fine. The base speed limit is 30 miles per hour (mph) unless otherwise marked. Fines for speeding on and off base can be high. Seatbelts are mandatory for everyone in the vehicle. If you receive a traffic ticket anywhere you must report to a Military Training Manager the next working day. Excessive tickets will result in the loss of your on base driving privileges. Riding a motorcycle on base requires special training. Inform your Military Training Manager of your plans to operate a motorcycle.
Buying a Car
Check with a Military Training Manager before buying a motor vehicle. If you buy one and drive it on base, you must register and get a vehicle pass. The documents listed above will be required to receive this pass. Parking near the classroom building is restricted in some areas. Please use designated parking for students.
Travel
On holidays and weekends, you are free to travel outside the city. If you leave the San Antonio area, it is important that you notify a Military Training Manager before going. Take your passport with you especially if you are traveling to another country such as Canada, and ensure your passport has the proper clearances for travel in and out of the US and always plan for SAFETY while traveling to your destination.
Fire Safety
In the event of a fire drill or a real fire in any DLI building, you must know and follow safety procedures. When you hear the fire alarm, calmly exit the building in the safest manner possible. If the doors are blocked, use a window. As you exit the building, let others know about the emergency or drill. Move at least 300 feet from the building and if in the classroom building, move to the designated pavilion. In case of a real fire, call the DLI Service Desk or dial 911 from a safe location. Fire alarm bells are located throughout the campus for use in case of a real fire. Activating a fire alarm when there is no fire is considered a serious offense.
Pedestrian Safety
Always use sidewalks or troop walks when they are available. If there is no sidewalk, walk/run on the left side of the street facing oncoming traffic. Use painted crosswalks to cross the street and if there are flashing lights that need to be activated, use them. Always proceed with caution to be sure that vehicles can and will stop. Joggers must wear reflective safety vests during hours of darkness. Do not climb over fences on base or elsewhere since this is illegal and violators are arrested.
Smoking
Smoking is allowed ONLY in designated areas on all military bases. These areas are clearly marked “designated smoking area” and have ashtrays provided. Do not smoke or allow anyone else to smoke in your dorm room. Smoking is not permitted in government buildings or government vehicles.
Firearms and Ammunition
Firearms (guns) and ammunition are strictly forbidden on US military bases. Knives with blades over 3 inches in length are not permitted.
DLI Sports Program
DLI has an organized sports program that includes a soccer league, golf, billiards, tennis, and bowling. There are also classes that teach different sports. You may borrow specific sports equipment by inquiring at the DLI Service Desk.
Additional Lackland Facilities
There are many facilities on Lackland AFB open to you. The Base Exchange (BX) is within walking distance if you want to do some shopping. There is a Mini-Mall near the DLI campus that also is convenient for shopping trips. The Commissary or grocery store is located next to the BX. The Gateway Officer and Enlisted Club with its restaurants and bars, meeting rooms and catering is also open. There is a movie theater near the BX, several swimming pools that are open from May to September and an indoor pool for year-round swimming. There are two gyms (Chaparral and Warhawk) near the DLI campus, a golf course and a bowling alley. There are numerous chapels on the base and the hours of services are posted on the bulletin board at DLI.
STEP FOUR — PROBLEMS TO AVOID
There are several potential problems that you need to avoid because they could have a damaging effect on further training. Most of these disciplinary problems are handled with “zero tolerance,” and may include disciplinary probation punishment and/or a recommendation to return homeland. All reports of sexual harassment / assault, shoplifting and driving while intoxicated (DWI) are seriously investigated. A Disciplinary Evaluation Board (DEB) will follow with appropriate disciplinary procedures. Disciplinary evaluation boards are mandatory and will be held by military service members and civilians who closely monitor your disciplinary/academic performance at DLI.
Sexual Harassment/Sexual Assault
Sexual harassment will not be accepted under any circumstances. “Sexual harassment involves unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical contact of a sexual nature when such conduct interferes with an individual’s performance or creates an intimidating or offensive environment. Examples of such conduct are verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature, comments on appearance, threats, or sexual remarks. Other examples are repeated pressure for dates, offensive noises (whistles, yells), open display of sexual material and unwelcome touching.” Sexual Assault refers to any of several offenses of a sexual nature committed without the lawful consent of the victim for the purpose of sexual gratification. Offenses include rape, carnal knowledge, forcible sodomy, and assault with intent to commit rape or sodomy, indecent assault, and indecent acts or liberties with a child, or an attempt to commit any of these offenses.
Shoplifting
Shoplifting is another serious matter that carries a severe punishment. The BX and other shops have very good security systems and intend to prosecute you if you leave without paying for any item, regardless of size or price. Always keep your sales receipts with you to prove you have paid for items when leaving a shop/store. If you are found guilty of shoplifting, you will be fined by the store and you may be required to return homeland without a training certificate or diploma regardless of academic standing.
Drugs and Alcohol
Illegal use of drugs/narcotics is also strictly forbidden. Security Forces on base will conduct a search of your vehicle or room if they suspect the possession of illegal drugs. Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) is a very serious offense that carries serious punishment that could include up to two years in prison, a $10,000 fine and termination of training (return homeland). In the US you must be 21 years old to buy and consume alcoholic beverages. ALWAYS designate a non-drinking driver to go with you if you intend to drink alcohol. Call a taxi, your senior student, or a friend to get you back on base safely.
Traffic Tickets
Traffic tickets received on or off base will often result in a fine, appearance in court or worse. You will be counseled and a notation put into your student record when this occurs. If you receive excessive tickets, your on-base driving privilege may be revoked. The most common tickets are for speeding, parking in troop walks and failure to make complete stops at stop signs. If you receive a traffic ticket you must take it to a Military Training Manager as soon as possible.
Class Attendance
Class attendance is mandatory for ALL students. From Monday through Friday, five days a week, you are expected to attend six classes per day scheduled from 0730 to 1430 with one hour for lunch. Friday schedule is abbreviated to finish at 1230. Each class period is 50 minutes long with a ten-minute break after each one. Failure to attend class may result in academic or disciplinary problems. Authorized absences from class will be considered if you follow established procedures by notifying the Military Training Managers and properly signing in and out at the DLI Service Desk for every appointment. Tardiness to class may also result in disciplinary actions. You are tardy if you are not in the classroom when the bell rings to begin class. A student who misses more than 25 minutes of a class period will be considered absent for that class. A tardy may be excused or authorized if approved by a Military Training Manager. Unexcused absences and tardies will result in disciplinary points on your record and may lead to counseling and disciplinary evaluations.
POSSESSION OF OFFICIAL TESTS—WARNING You should not be in possession of official test materials unless you are in the process of taking a test. If you have “practice test materials” but are not sure whether certain test materials are “official” or not, you should show them to a teacher or supervisor. If you do this and the materials turn out to be “official” tests, you will not be penalized. However, if you are found in possession of “official” test materials which you have not reported, you could meet an academic or disciplinary board. |
STEP FIVE – DEPARTING DLI
You must attend the mandatory out-processing brief before you can leave. Failure to attend out-processing briefs or complete appropriate paperwork may result in losing base privileges,and/or a delay in receiving your graduation diploma. Be sure to complete all of your out-processing requirements in a timely fashion. Identification cards will be collected on departure or at graduation. Students traveling to follow-on training will retain their identification card for the duration of follow-on training.
Student Feedback
You will have an opportunity to provide feedback regarding your training at DLIELC. Your opinions on the quality of your training are welcomed from the first day. To get prompt results on any concern, always speak first and use the chain of command. If you are not satisfied with the responses you receive, you may also use Student Comment Sheets, which are located in the classrooms, at the Service Desk, and other areas, to write your concerns. We will respond to you within ten working days or sooner if you are graduating. One week before you graduate, you will be asked to complete an End-of-Course Survey and rate all areas at DLIELC. Later, DLIELC will also contact you at follow-on training to see how you are doing and to determine the quality of training you received here. In all instances, written reports are prepared for the Commandant who oversees all areas of our program.
FREQUENTLY USED ACRONYMS AT DLI
AELP: Advanced English Leadership Program
ALC: American Language Course
ALCPT: American Language Course Placement Test
BQ: Book Quiz
BX: Base Exchange
CC: Commandant
CLO: Country Liaison Officer
CPM: Country Program Manager
DEB: Discipline Evaluation Board
DLIELC: Defense Language Institute English Language Center
ECL: English Comprehension Level
EFL: English as a Foreign Language
ELT: English Language Training
ELTP: English Language Training Programs
ESL: English as a Second Language
FMS: Foreign Military Sales
FOT: Follow-on Training
GEBAT: Government Excess Baggage Authorization Ticket
GET: General English Training
ID: Identification
IDB: Instructor Development Branch
IMET: International Military Education and Training
IMI: Interactive Multimedia Instruction
IMS: International Military Students
IMSO: International Military Student Officer
ISQ: International Student Quarters
ITO: Invitational Travel Order
JSAT: Joint Security Assistance Training
LOA: Letter of Agreement
LOP: Letter of Probation
LOW: Letter of Warning
MASL: Military Articles and Services Listing
MILDEPs: Military Departments
MPH: Miles Per Hour
MTM: Military Training Manager
OPI: Oral Proficiency Interview
OPSAV: Oral Proficiency Skills for Aviation Training
RIM: Retainable Instructional Material
SAO: Security Assistance Office(r)
SATP: Security Assistance Training Program
SET: Specialized English Training
TCO: Test Control Officer
TOEFL: Testing of English as a Foreign Language
US: United States
USAF: United States Air Force
USO: United Service Organizations
WHMC: Wilford Hall Medical Center