BALTIMORE — Seven Maryland school systems earned statewide recognition this week for their outstanding support of students from military families, with multiple schools in Southern Maryland standing out among the 27 honorees for the 2026-2028 Purple Star Schools designation.
The Maryland State Department of Education announced the latest class of Purple Star Schools on April 27, 2026. The schools will be formally honored at the State Board of Education meeting on Tuesday. The designation highlights institutions that go above and beyond to meet the unique challenges faced by military-connected children, including frequent moves, parental deployments, and transitions between schools.
Southern Maryland schools figured prominently in the announcement. Calvert County Public Schools secured recognition for nine schools, while St. Mary’s County Public Schools earned the honor for three. These local successes reflect the region’s strong commitment to supporting families who serve in the nation’s armed forces, many of whom are stationed at nearby installations such as Naval Air Station Patuxent River.
“Our Purple Star Schools excel in serving the unique needs of our military-connected students and families,” said Dr. Carey M. Wright, State Superintendent of Schools. “These school communities create welcoming environments, fostering a sense of support and belonging that provides the foundation for student success.”
Dr. Joshua L. Michael, State Board of Education President, added: “Congratulations to Maryland’s Purple Star School honorees. These schools reflect our commitment to the families who serve our country, creating environments where their children experience a true sense of belonging and are supported to succeed.”
To qualify for Purple Star status, schools must meet several rigorous criteria. Each must designate a military liaison, maintain accessible digital resources for military families, operate a student-led transition program, and provide targeted training for staff on the specific needs of military-connected students. The program, which Maryland joined in 2023, recognizes schools that actively ease the disruptions often experienced by military families.
In Calvert County, the recognized schools are Huntingtown High School, Patuxent High School, Southern Middle School, Barstow Elementary School, Dowell Elementary School, Mount Harmony Elementary School, Huntingtown Elementary School, Mutual Elementary School, and Sunderland Elementary School. These institutions serve communities near major military support areas and have demonstrated consistent excellence in welcoming new students and supporting those with deployed parents.
St. Mary’s County Public Schools earned the designation for Captain Walter Francis Duke Elementary School, Leonardtown Middle School, and Park Hall Elementary School. These schools are located in a county that hosts significant naval operations, making their support programs especially vital for local families.
Other Maryland systems also received honors. Anne Arundel County Public Schools had four schools recognized: Meade High School, MacArthur Middle School, Magothy River Middle School, and West Meade Early Education Center. Harford County Public Schools earned recognition for Roye-Williams Elementary School. Howard County Public School System had three elementary schools honored: Bellows Springs, Veterans, and Thunder Hill. Prince George’s County Public Schools recognized Melwood Elementary School, and Queen Anne’s County Public Schools had six schools selected.
The Purple Star designation remains valid for two school years. State education officials noted that the program continues to grow as more schools implement practices designed to help military students maintain academic progress and emotional well-being despite the demands of service life.
Maryland’s military families contribute significantly to the state’s economy and security. By recognizing schools that prioritize their children’s success, state leaders aim to strengthen the support network that helps service members focus on their missions knowing their families are cared for at home.
Local education leaders in Southern Maryland have expressed pride in the achievements. The honors underscore the region’s ongoing efforts to create stable, supportive learning environments for students whose parents wear the uniform.
