BALTIMORE, February 27, 2024 – The Maryland State Department of Education unveiled the first group of eight schools to receive the prestigious Purple Star School designation, a recognition of their exceptional support and services for students belonging to military families. Among the honored are schools from Calvert and St. Mary’s counties, showcasing their commitment to addressing the unique needs of military-connected students.
The Purple Star School initiative, which Maryland joined in 2023 alongside 37 other states, is a nationwide effort to acknowledge schools that provide outstanding support to military families. The designation highlights the schools’ dedication to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for students whose parents serve in the armed forces.
In this inaugural group, one school from Calvert County, Mt. Harmony Elementary School, and one from St. Mary’s County, Captain Walter Francis Duke Elementary School, have been distinguished for their exemplary services. These schools and others from Anne Arundel County and Queen Anne’s County have demonstrated a solid commitment to meeting the unique challenges military-connected students face.
“Students whose family members serve in the armed forces have unique needs,” emphasized Dr. Carey M. Wright, Interim State Superintendent of Schools. He lauded the recognized schools for their efforts to go “above and beyond” in addressing these needs and fostering a supportive community. Dr. Wright’s statement underscores the importance of such initiatives in ensuring that military-connected students receive the support they need to thrive academically and socially.
To qualify for the Purple Star designation, schools must meet specific criteria demonstrating their commitment to serving military families effectively. These criteria include appointing a dedicated staff member as the point of contact for newly enrolled military-connected students and their families, providing accessible digital resources, offering a student-led program to facilitate transition, and ensuring that staff receive appropriate training and professional development.
The eight schools honored will carry the Purple Star designation through the 2024-25 academic year, serving as models for other institutions aiming to enhance their support for military families. The recognition highlights the schools’ achievements in creating a nurturing environment for military-connected students and raises awareness of the unique challenges these students face.
Maryland’s adoption of the Purple Star Schools Program signifies a significant step towards acknowledging and addressing the educational and emotional needs of students from military families. The designated schools play a crucial role in their academic success and well-being by fostering an environment that supports these students.
The initiative reflects a broader commitment to ensuring that military families receive the support and recognition they deserve. As Maryland continues to expand the Purple Star Schools Program, it sets a precedent for other states to follow, highlighting the importance of community and support in the educational journey of military-connected students.
